Rome, Italy – The historic Church of S. Maria della Scala in the Trastevere area of Rome will host its annual organ concert dedicated to Saint Teresa of Avila. The event, steeped in over 400 years of tradition, marks a revival of elaborate musical celebrations that once characterized the feast day of this revered saint.
A tradition Reborn
Table of Contents
- 1. A tradition Reborn
- 2. The Concert Program
- 3. The Organ’s Rich History
- 4. Artists in the Spotlight
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions About the Organ Concert
- 6. How does the past development of the soprano and organ repertoire differ from that of more common concertos like those for violin or piano?
- 7. Stunning Performance: Soprano and Organ Concerto Shines on Stage
- 8. The Power of Vocal and Instrumental Fusion
- 9. Historical Roots of the Soprano and Organ Repertoire
- 10. Technical Considerations for Performers
- 11. Notable Repertoire for Soprano and Organ
- 12. Benefits of Experiencing a Soprano and Organ Performance
- 13. Finding performances and Recordings
- 14. The Future of the Soprano and organ Concerto
For generations, the feast of Saint Teresa of Avila was a notable occasion for the Discalced Carmelite friars who oversee S. Maria della Scala. Elaborate decorations, captivating performances, and enthusiastic community participation defined these celebrations. Following a period of interruption, the tradition was thoughtfully revived in 2010. This revival coincided with the painstaking restoration of the church’s valuable organ, a project spearheaded by Father Stefano Guernelli and supported by generous benefactors.
The Concert Program
This year’s performance will feature a diverse repertoire, showcasing the talents of soprano Rossana Bertini and organist andrea panfili, both returning for a third consecutive year.The program includes works by Giovanni Battista Martini, Johann Sebastian Bach, Dietrich Buxtehude, Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, Alessandro Speranza, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Franz Joseph Haydn. A particularly notable element is the inclusion of two arias in German, drawn from Bach’s St. Matthew Passion and Haydn’s The Creation, alongside Pergolesi’s Latin Salve Regina.
The Organ’s Rich History
The concert will highlight the beautifully restored organ, housed within a monumental choir loft constructed in 1756 by Giuseppe Pannini. Originally,the loft contained an organ crafted in 1789 by ignazio Priori,though only the original,intricately carved case remains. The current instrument is a pneumatic transmission organ from 1908, meticulously created by the Carlo Vegezzi Bossi company of Turin; it features a 56-note keyboard, a 27-note pedalboard, and ten stops.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Choir Loft Construction | 1756 by Giuseppe Pannini |
| Original Organ Construction | 1789 by Ignazio Priori (case only remains) |
| Current organ construction | 1908 by Carlo Vegezzi Bossi (Turin) |
| Keyboard notes | 56 |
| Pedalboard Notes | 27 |
| Number of Stops | 10 |
Did You Know? The tradition of elaborate musical celebrations at S.Maria della Scala dates back to the 17th century,demonstrating the long-standing connection between the church,music,and the veneration of Saint Teresa of Avila.
The restoration of the organ, a significant undertaking, allows for the continuation of this artistic heritage, providing a platform for both established and emerging musicians. According to a 2012 article published in “Strenna dei Romanisti”, the concert series aims to recapture the glory of past musical events held within the church walls.
Artists in the Spotlight
Soprano Rossana Bertini brings a wealth of experience, having collaborated with leading baroque specialists across continents. Organist Andrea Panfili is also a recognized musician and musicologist,having published extensively on the history of organ building in rome.
Pro Tip: For those interested in delving deeper into the organ’s history, the article «Due nobilissimi Cori con Organo per convenient si de Musici, che d’Istromenti» published in “Strenna dei Romanisti” (2012) provides valuable insights.
Organ concerts, like this one at S. Maria della Scala,are increasingly recognized for their cultural and historical significance. the preservation of historic organs and the repertoire they support is a global effort. According to the American Institute of Organbuilders, there has been a renewed interest in organ restoration in recent years, fueled by both a desire to preserve cultural heritage and a growing recognition for the instrument’s unique sonic qualities.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Organ Concert
- What is the significance of the Saint Teresa of Avila concert? The concert commemorates the feast day of Saint Teresa of Avila and revives a centuries-old tradition of musical celebration at S. Maria della Scala.
- Who are the featured performers in this concert series? Soprano Rossana Bertini and organist andrea Panfili are the featured performers, contributing their expertise for the third consecutive year.
- What is the historical importance of the organ at S. maria della Scala? The organ has a rich history, with components dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, representing significant periods of Italian organ building.
- What kind of music will be performed at this concert? The concert program showcases a blend of Baroque and Classical masterpieces by composers like Bach, Mozart, and Pergolesi.
- Where can I find more information about the organ and the church’s musical history? Detailed information can be found in the article “Due nobilissimi Cori con Organo per convenient si de Musici, che d’Istromenti” published in “Strenna dei Romanisti” (2012).
What are your thoughts on the importance of preserving historic musical traditions? Share your comments below!
How does the past development of the soprano and organ repertoire differ from that of more common concertos like those for violin or piano?
Stunning Performance: Soprano and Organ Concerto Shines on Stage
The Power of Vocal and Instrumental Fusion
The pairing of a soprano voice with the majestic sound of a pipe organ is a relatively uncommon, yet profoundly moving, musical experience. This combination, frequently enough showcased in a soprano and organ concerto, leverages the unique strengths of both – the human expressiveness of the voice and the architectural power of the organ. Recent performances have demonstrated a resurgence in popularity for this genre, captivating audiences with its dramatic range and emotional depth. Understanding the nuances of this pairing requires exploring both the historical context and the technical challenges involved.
Historical Roots of the Soprano and Organ Repertoire
While not as extensive as the violin or piano concerto repertoire, the history of works featuring soprano and organ stretches back several centuries.
* Baroque Era: Early examples can be found in the Baroque period, frequently enough as part of church services or oratorios. Composers like Handel and Bach occasionally incorporated vocal solos with organ accompaniment, tho dedicated concertos were less frequent.
* Romantic Period: The Romantic era saw a notable increase in interest. Composers began to explore the dramatic potential of the pairing, creating more substantial works designed for concert performance. Felix Mendelssohn’s incidental music, including vocal pieces with organ, exemplifies this trend.
* 20th & 21st Centuries: The 20th and 21st centuries have witnessed a renewed interest, with contemporary composers writing specifically for the soprano and organ combination, pushing the boundaries of both vocal and instrumental technique. Composers like Francis Poulenc have contributed considerably to the modern repertoire.
Technical Considerations for Performers
Successfully executing a soprano organ concerto demands exceptional skill from both performers. The challenges are unique and require careful coordination.
* Balance: Achieving a proper balance between the voice and the organ is paramount. The organ, capable of immense volume, can easily overwhelm the soprano. Skilled performers utilize registration (selecting different organ stops) and dynamic control to ensure the voice remains audible and expressive.
* Phrasing and Articulation: Synchronizing phrasing and articulation is crucial. The organist must respond to the soprano’s nuances, providing sensitive accompaniment that enhances, rather than obscures, the vocal line.
* Acoustics: The acoustics of the performance space play a vital role. A reverberant hall can enhance the organ’s sound but may also muddy the vocal clarity. Careful consideration must be given to the venue when selecting repertoire and adjusting performance techniques.
* Organ Registration: The art of organ registration is key.Choosing the right combination of stops (the controls that activate different sets of pipes) is essential to create the desired tonal color and dynamic range.
Notable Repertoire for Soprano and Organ
Several pieces stand out as cornerstones of the soprano and organ repertoire. These works showcase the versatility and emotional power of the combination.
- Francis Poulenc – Gloria: A beloved work,the Gloria is frequently performed and demonstrates Poulenc’s masterful blending of customary and modern styles. It’s a staple for classical vocal performance.
- Ralph Vaughan Williams – Serenade to Music: Originally written for sixteen solo voices, arrangements for soprano and organ are popular, offering a lyrical and emotionally resonant experience.
- Johann Sebastian Bach – Various Arrangements: While Bach didn’t write dedicated soprano and organ concertos, many of his vocal works, including arias from cantatas and oratorios, are beautifully adapted for this combination.
- Contemporary Works: Increasingly, composers are creating new works specifically for this pairing, expanding the repertoire and exploring innovative sonic possibilities.
Benefits of Experiencing a Soprano and Organ Performance
Attending a performance of a soprano and organ concerto offers a unique and enriching experience for music lovers.
* Emotional Impact: The combination of the human voice and the powerful organ creates a deeply moving and emotionally resonant experience.
* Acoustic Immersion: The sound of a pipe organ in a suitable acoustic space is truly immersive, enveloping the audience in a rich and complex sonic landscape.
* Appreciation of Musical Craftsmanship: The technical demands placed on both performers highlight the artistry and skill involved in classical music performance.
* Exposure to Diverse Repertoire: The repertoire, spanning centuries and styles, offers a broad range of musical experiences.
Finding performances and Recordings
Opportunities to experience soprano and organ music are becoming more frequent.
* Concert Halls and Churches: Check the schedules of major concert halls and churches in your area. Many churches with large pipe organs host regular concerts.
* University Music Departments: University music departments often feature student and faculty performances.
* Online Streaming: Many performances are now streamed online, offering access to a wider audience.
* Recordings: Numerous recordings of soprano and organ repertoire are available on streaming services and for purchase. search for keywords like “classical music recordings,” “soprano organ concerto,” and specific composer names.
The Future of the Soprano and organ Concerto
The future looks bright for this captivating musical pairing. With increasing interest from both composers and audiences,we can expect to see a continued
