For the setting of the contemplative but highly emotional text of the medieval sequence Stabat mater Boccherini chose an intimate chamber music instrumentation of soprano and string quintet (in his preferred instrumentation with two violins, viola and two cellos). The five string instruments are not only accompaniment, but together with the singing voice they transform into one instrument section, so that one can speak of a sextet for singing voice and string quintet. With the angelic singing of Núria Rial, the work becomes a real treat for lovers of beautiful voices and chamber music lovers alike.
Christine Hoock is a versatile virtuoso. She can be heard in the most varied constellations in classical music, world music and jazz. Concert tours have taken her all around the world. Today, Christine Hoock is Professor of Double Bass at the Mozarteum University Salzburg. She plays an English instrument by William Tarr built in 1848.
L'auteur retrace l'histoire politique et symbolique du pouvoir papal à travers près de 120 animaux qui ont contribué à le construire mais aussi à alimenter la polémique et la satire à son égard. Sont ainsi évoqués la colombe, symbole du Saint-Esprit puis de la paix, le dragon qui sert à affirmer la papauté romaine dans ses premiers siècles, le perroquet, le phénix, le cheval ou la brebis. …
Angelo Branduardi was born in Cuggiono, in the Milan area.