The Fiery Genius: Neapolitan Instrumental Music for 1, 2, 3, and 4 Violins
6/9/2017, 32 Tracks, 1:08:39
Featuring
Enrico Gatti
Joanna Huszcza
Marie Rouquié
Sebastiano Airoldi
Gaetano Nasillo
Guido Morini
Ensemble Aurora
Leonardo Leo
Giovanni Carlo Cailò
Pietro Marchitelli
Nicola Fiorenza
Francesco Paolo Supriano
Did you know?
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Compositional Technique
The Largo of Nicola Fiorenza's Concerto di violini e basso features surprising harmonic resolutions over a cello pedal, anticipating the poignant atmospheres of the classical string quartet.
Historical Context
In 1702, King Philip V of Spain visited Naples, marking the first royal visit in centuries and prompting lavish musical celebrations.
Composer Biography
Francesco Paolo Supriani, a Neapolitan cellist and composer, authored the first Italian method for the instrument, titled Principij da imparare a suonare il violoncello.
Composer Biography
Nicola Fiorenza, a Neapolitan violinist and composer, was known for his unorthodox teaching methods, including physically punishing students and drawing his sword on them.
Composer Biography
Giovanni Carlo Cailò, a Roman violinist, was brought to Naples by Alessandro Scarlatti to replace Neapolitan musicians who resigned in protest.
Composer Biography
Pietro Marchitelli, a prominent Neapolitan violinist and composer, maintained his position as leader of the Royal Chapel for almost five decades.
Critical Reception
Music historian Charles Burney used an anecdote about Arcangelo Corelli's struggles with Neapolitan music to highlight the 'fiery genius' of Neapolitan instrumental practice compared to Corelli's 'meek' style.
