Latinitas Nostra, the baroque ensemble on this album, was founded by Greek harpsichordist and conductor Markellos Chryssicos to provide a platform for young Greek musicians specializing in Early Music.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The album's selection of works by 'dilettante' composers aims to highlight the Florentine Camerata's ideal of placing music at the service of the text, poem, and emotions.
Album & Artwork
The album title, 'I Dilettanti', refers to the historical concept of dilettantism as a mark of aristocratic distinction in the 18th century, when professional artistic practice was often considered bourgeois.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded in Avià, Spain, between August 12 and 15, 2013.
Compositional Technique
The chamber cantata, a genre featured prominently on this album, was favored for its ability to highlight the text's importance, avoiding the complexity of madrigals and the melodic spectacle of opera.
Interpretation
Xavier Sabata, the countertenor, uses both Mechanism 1 (chest voice) and Mechanism 2 (head voice) in his performance, adapting his vocal approach to the pitch or poetic demands of the music.
Performer Biography
Xavier Sabata, the countertenor on this album, began his artistic career studying drama at Barcelona's Institut del Teatre before pursuing music.
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