The Sacri musicali affetti is the only collection of its kind published in Catholic Europe during the early modern age by a woman who was not a nun.
Recording & Production
The organ used for the basso continuo on this recording was custom-built by Laboratorio d'organi Nicola Ferroni with specific stops to emulate the sound of Italian Renaissance and Baroque organs.
Composer Biography
Barbara Strozzi (1619-1677) was born in Venice and lived for many years in the house of Giulio Strozzi, an acclaimed poet and intellectual.
Composer Biography
Giulio Strozzi, a significant figure in Venetian cultural life, was either Barbara Strozzi's adoptive or illegitimate father, and ensured her access to Venetian musical and literary society.
Composition History
Barbara Strozzi's determination to publish her works was significant, as most women composers' works in the 17th century were not printed.
Compositional Technique
Barbara Strozzi's Sacri musicali affetti are characterized by vocal virtuosity, including rapid scales, ornate embellishments, long melismas, and repeated chromaticism.
Historical Context
In the 17th century, women musicians were primarily admired for their performance skills, with composing often seen as a pleasant addition.
