
Smock Alley
Featuring
Did you know?
1/7Composer Biography
Tommaso Giordani, an Italian composer, worked as musical director at the Smock Alley Theatre in Dublin from 1764-1767 and returned in 1783, remaining for the rest of his life.
Composer Biography
Thomas Roseingrave, an organist from Dublin, met the Scarlatti family in Venice and became enamoured with Domenico Scarlatti's playing, later publishing an edition of his Keyboard Sonatas.
Historical Context
Francesco Geminiani, an Italian violinist and composer, lived in Dublin for periods in the 1730s and from 1758 until his death in 1762, where he opened an art gallery and concert room.
Compositional Technique
The album's sound world expands on the rich sound of two cellos by adding the gritty warmth of double bass, percussion, and earthy Irish flute.
Album & Artwork
This album draws inspiration from the vibrant theatre scene in Dublin during the 18th century, exploring connections between Italian and Irish musicians in the Smock Alley neighbourhood.
Cultural Impact
The Irish air Eileen Aroon was very popular among classical musicians in the 18th century and was often performed as a musical interlude at the Smock Alley Theatre.
Compositional Technique
Tommaso Giordani's Six Duos for Two Cellos, Op. 18, feature melodic and accompaniment roles passed between each line, often moving together in thirds at expressive points.






















