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Vivaldi: Stabat Mater & Magnificat with the Moniuszko Choir & VMI Ensemble
Sunday, August 17 @ 6:00 pm
Antonio Vivaldi: Stabat Mater, RV 621, Magnificat, RV. 610
The Moniuszko Choir
Virtuosi Institute Ensemble
Allison Lindsay, alto
Mary McCue, soprano
Adrian Sylveen, conductor
Antonio Vivaldi’s Stabat Mater (RV 621) and Magnificat (RV 610) stand as poignant examples of his sacred vocal music, revealing his deep sensitivity to liturgical texts. Stabat Mater, composed in 1712, features a solo alto, strings, and continuo, unfolding the Virgin Mary’s grief at the crucifixion through solemn tempos, expressive dissonances, and emotionally charged melodic lines. In contrast, the Magnificat is a celebratory canticle of Mary’s praise, written for mixed choir, soloists, and orchestra. Its twelve brief movements balance vivid contrasts, intricate counterpoint, and moments of spiritual exuberance. Both works showcase Vivaldi’s mastery in channeling sacred texts into music that transcends mere ritual, merging the emotional depth of devotion with the stylistic flair of the Venetian Baroque. Together, they illustrate his ability to express sorrow and joy with equal conviction, offering audiences a glimpse into the sacred heart of his musical imagination.