Claudio Monteverdi Vespers of 1610

Program Notes I cannot think of a better way to mark the passing of the old and the greeting of a New Year than with some favorite piece of music. Last January, I finally fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Venice. Nothing could have prepared me for the exotic splendor of the architecture and the gentle light that inspired some of the world’s greatest artists, from Titian to Bellini. In my inner ear, I could hear the music of Gabrieli, Monteverdi and Vivaldi, my soundtrack as I got lost wandering through the narrow streets of Venice and emerging onto the Piazza in front of San Marco. While at the stunning church “I Frari”, I was able to visit the grave of the great Monteverdi himself and I realized that it was time to re-visit the Vespers. This performance marks Choral Arts’ third venture with his ambitious work, the last concert given in December of 2010. To my mind, it is the first real large scale “masterpiece”. Its design and architecture, based on the various pieces of Vespers and augmented by the smaller scale Sacred Concert, make this collection truly unique. It is both grand public music and intimate personal statements juxtaposed side by side. I never tire of the Vespers of 1610, and find new surprises with every listening. So here’s wishing our Claudio Monteverdi a Happy 450th Birthday, and to all of you, a very Happy New Year! Matt Glandorf Artistic Director Choral Arts Philadelphia and The Bach Festival of Philadelphia

Matt Glandorf in front of I Frari Church where Monteverdi is buried. Venice, Italy. January 2017.