ANTONIO BONONCINI (1677-1726): Messa a 5 in G Minor for Soloists, Chorus, Strings and Continuo (World Premiere Recording), Stabat Mater a 4 in C Minor for Soloists, Chorus, Strings and Continuo.

Description: The 48-minute mass features highly complex and dense counterpoint which contrasts with the concertato style of its duets, trios and quartets (it has no arias) while the 32-minute Stabat Mater offers the same contrupuntal devices but opposes them with relatively simple, homophonic arias. Both works effectively combine the ecclesiastical and operatic styles with the Stabat Mater leading the way in intensity of expression. Silvia Frigato, Raffaella Milanesi (sopranos), Andrea Arrivabene (countertenor), Elena Biscuola, Sara Mingardo (contraltos), Valerio Contaldo, Raffaele Giodani (tenors), Salvo Vitale (bass), Concerto Italiano Choir & Orchestra; Rinaldo Alessandrini.