PROGRAM NOTES Giovanni Pergolesi, an Italian Baroque composer, is renowned for his expressive sacred and secular music. His Stabat Mater, composed in 1736, is one of his most famous works, setting the poignant 13th-century hymn to music. The first duet, "Stabat Mater," features the soprano and alto voices blending in a beautiful, sorrowful harmony, conveying the grief of the Virgin Mary as she witnesses the crucifixion of her son. The delicate and dissonant interplay between the voices with the somber string accompaniment creates a deeply emotional and intimate atmosphere, showcasing Pergolesi’s mastery in capturing human emotion through music. Stabat Mater dolorosa Iuxta crucem lacrimosa Dum pendebat filius
The grieving mother Stood weeping beside the cross Where her Son was hanging (Translated by Francis Browne)
Jesu, der du meine Seele, BMV 78: Wir eilen mit schwachen, J.S. Bach (1724) Johann Sebastian Bach's duet "Wir eilen mit schwachen" from his Cantata BWV 78, "Jesus, der du meine Seele", is a beautiful and expressive example of his mastery in conveying spiritual longing through music. In this duet, the soprano and alto voices sing in a flowing, harmonious dialogue, reflecting the text's themes of weak, yet earnest, steps in their journey towards Christ. The text is based on a 1641 hymn by Johann Rist. Bach’s use of a gently pulsating rhythm in the accompaniment mirrors the fragile yet hopeful determination of the voices. He symbolizes hastening through vocal coloratura. Bach transforms a simple expression of faith into an emotionally resonant experience. Wir eilen mit schwachen, doch emsigen Schritten O Jesu, o Meister zu helfen, zu dir. Du suchest die Kranken und Irrenden treulich Ach höre, wie wir Die Stimmen erheben, um Hülfe zu bitten! Es sei und dein gnädiges Antlitz erfreulich!
We hasten with weak but diligent steps, Oh Jesus, oh Master of Salvation, to you. You seek the ailing and erring faithfully, Ah hear, how we Raise our voices to plead for help Let your merciful countenance be gladdening to us. (Translated by Michael Marissen and Daniel Melamed)
If Music be the Food of Love, 3rd Version, Henry Purcell, (1695)
Henry Purcell, one of England's most renowned Baroque composers, is celebrated for his ability to blend the expressive depth of the human voice with rich, innovative instrumental accompaniments. His works span a wide range of genres, from operas and church music to chamber music, but his influence on English song is particularly notable. One of Purcell's most famous works, "If Music Be the Food of Love," exists in several versions, with the third version standing out for its virtuosity and emotional depth. Set to words from Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, this song explores the idea that music, as a form of love, nourishes the soul. The third version includes declarative moments and ornaments that perfectly complements the text's reflection on the power of music and love. Purcell's use continuo writing adds a layer of sophistication to the otherwise simple form, giving the song a timeless quality. The emotional warmth and delicate phrasing in this version invite the listener to experience the transformative power of both love and music.