Album Description
World renowned Baroque specialist Nicholas McGegan and his San Francisco-based Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra - Musical America's Ensemble of the Year in 2004 - debut on Avie with the world premiere recording of The Cecilian Vespers by Alessandro Scarlatti. One of the few authentic Vespers of the early 18th century, the manuscripts of Scarlatti's Psalm and antiphon settings were discovered in locations all over Europe and reunited with the original plainsong to create the current version - a genuine full-scale baroque Vespers created specifically for a celebration of St. Cecilia's Day in Rome between 1720 and 1721. These same forces gave the world premiere performance in 2001 at the International Handel Festival in Göttingen, Germany, of which Andante.com said, "It is unlikely the music will get a better chance to stake its claim as a masterpiece: all performers were outstanding."
The 2-disc set also includes Scarlatti's Nisi Dominus, Salve Regina and Audi, Filia. His remarkably inventive music in these vibrant performances benefits greatly from the Hybrid SACD technology.
Critical acclaim for Nicholas McGegan and Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra:
"Philharmonia Dazzles In Tribute Fit For A Saint...Under McGegan's fleet, flexible direction, the score emerged in a vibrant, endlessly tuneful and aptly transparent reading." - Contra Costa (California) Times
"The most exciting American period instrument ensemble." - The Wall Street Journal
With an Amazon.co.uk 
