Stefano Nascimbeni, a Mantuan musician, became Kapellmeister of the Palatine Basilica of Santa Barbara in 1609, a post also sought by Claudio Monteverdi.
Recording & Production
The 'Cappella musicale di S. Barbara' ensemble was specifically assembled for this program, which had not been performed in modern times.
Historical Context
Despite the Council of Trent's regulations, polyphonic Masses on secular themes continued to be performed, even in Rome.
Compositional Technique
One of the Masses, Paradis del Amours, likely takes its name and thematic inspiration from a chanson, though no trace of it has been found.
Compositional Technique
Nascimbeni's Mass Paradis del Amours uses compositional procedures like 'in progression', diminished intervals, and dissonances for dramatic effect, especially in the Crucifixus.
Historical Context
The motets on this album, many of which are first modern performances, showcase a 'representative' singing style emerging in the early 17th century, influenced by secular and theatrical music.
Composition History
Nascimbeni's Messe a otto voci, con la Partitura per l'Organo, a collection of three Masses, was published in Venice in 1612.
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