Pasquini: Moses

The opening concert of the 2025 season features a brand new programme of extremely rare performances.

After a years-long study of the manuscript, Ensemble Locatelli è ready to present their interpretation of a rare composition by Bernardo Pasquini.
The period of Lent è is characterised by reflection, searching within oneself and a strong sense of spirituality. All characteristics that underlie the form of the Oratorio, a genre in vogue throughout the ‘600s and which had its heyday in Rome. Considered a kind of opera with a sacred theme and in non-representational form, the Oratorio shares with the latter the structural form made up of alternating arias, recitatives and choruses, as well as having a well-defined plot and dramatic structure that make the definition of “Dramma sacro” fitting. The themes come from biblical episodes, from the lives of saints, or even represent Christian virtues through refined allegories.
The father of this new genre is considered Giacomo Carissimi, but soon numerous composers tried their hand at this form, which immediately met with favour among the Roman religious aristocracy, rapidly evolving the language and introducing instruments. One of the most versatile figures of the late 17th century, Bernardo Pasquini, a musician linked to the noble Borghese family, composed numerous oratorios, many of which have already been performed in contemporary times. Missing from Italian performances, however, is the oratorio “I fatti di Mosè nel Deserto”, also known as “Il Mosè”, composed for 4 solo voices, 2 violins, viola and basso continuo, which deals with the biblical narratives of the Exodus.
Pasquini's music is refined, vivid and with concise and dynamic forms; it stands as an ideal bridge between the artifices of the 17th century and the more elaborate complexity of the 18th century. It is not surprising that he is historically placed alongside Corelli, whose close collaborator he was, and the admiration he enjoyed from Händel and numerous other composers throughout Europe.

.