Assassinio nella cattedrale

Immerse yourself in the dramatic and spiritual world of Ildebrando Pizzetti's "Assassinio nella cattedrale," a compelling opera that blends the genres of opera and requiem. Released on October 7, 2003, under the Opera d'Oro label, this album offers a rich, 85-minute journey through a tale of faith, power, and martyrdom.

Pizzetti's composition is a setting of T.S. Eliot's play "Murder in the Cathedral," which depicts the assassination of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, in 1170. The opera is divided into two acts, each filled with powerful arias and choruses that bring Eliot's poetic text to life. The first act introduces the characters and the political and religious tensions that lead to the Archbishop's murder, while the second act culminates in the dramatic assassination and its aftermath.

The album showcases Pizzetti's mastery of both operatic and choral writing, with a score that is both lyrical and dramatic. The "Dies irae" sequence, in particular, is a standout moment, blending the traditional Gregorian chant with Pizzetti's own harmonies to create a haunting and powerful effect.

This recording is a must-listen for fans of opera and choral music, offering a unique blend of drama, spirituality, and musical innovation. Pizzetti's "Assassinio nella cattedrale" is a testament to the power of music to tell a story and to explore the deepest questions of faith and morality.