Hasse: Italian Cantatas With Obbligato Instruments

Dive into the enchanting world of Baroque music with Johann Adolf Hasse's "Italian Cantatas With Obbligato Instruments," a captivating collection of 19 tracks that showcase the composer's mastery of the cantata form. Released on July 15, 2014, by Hungaroton, this album offers a rich and immersive experience that spans a little over an hour, making it a perfect addition to any classical music enthusiast's library.

The album features a stunning array of vocal and instrumental performances, with notable contributions from sopranos Mária Zádori and Noémi Kiss, who deliver clear, warm-focused voices that are perfectly suited to the style and period of the music. Under the direction of János Malina, the period-instrument ensemble Affetti Musicali brings Hasse's compositions to life with authenticity and precision.

Hasse, a contemporary of Bach and Handel, was heavily influenced by Alessandro Scarlatti, one of his teachers, and this album showcases his unique approach to the Italian cantata. The cantatas included in this collection are not only historically significant but also musically rich, featuring a mix of recitatives and arias that highlight Hasse's skill in dramatic storytelling and melodic invention.

The album opens with "Se il cantor trace, oh Dio," a recitative and aria that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Other standout tracks include "Per palesarti appieno," a recitative and aria that showcases Hasse's ability to convey deep emotion through music, and "Dalle tenebre orrende," a duet from "Orfeo ed Euridice" that is both haunting and beautiful.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music fan or a newcomer to the genre, "Italian Cantatas With Obbligato Instruments" offers a rewarding listening experience. The album's blend of vocal and instrumental talent, combined with Hasse's timeless compositions, makes it a standout release in the world of Baroque music.