Benedetto Marcello - Marcello: Cassandra (LP)

Immerse yourself in the hauntingly beautiful world of Benedetto Marcello's "Marcello: Cassandra," a captivating album released on March 29, 2010, under the Aeon label. This extraordinary collection is a blend of Marcello's profound musical genius and the timeless tragedy of Cassandra, the Trojan princess from Greek mythology. The album is a requiem, a genre that Marcello masterfully explores, offering a poignant and reflective listening experience.

The centerpiece of the album is the cantata "Cassandra," a 16-movement work for alto and basso continuo. Each movement tells a part of Cassandra's story, from her prophetic cries to the fall of Troy, offering a dramatic and emotional journey through the myth. Marcello's composition is a testament to his skill in conveying narrative and emotion through music.

Complementing the cantata is Marcello's Concerto in C Minor, BWV 981, a four-movement work that showcases his mastery of the concerto form. The concerto's lively and energetic movements provide a striking contrast to the somber and reflective cantata, demonstrating Marcello's versatility as a composer.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, "Marcello: Cassandra" is a substantial and engaging listen. Whether you're a fan of Baroque music, a lover of classical requiems, or simply someone looking to explore the works of Benedetto Marcello, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.