Roman composer Emilio Cavalieri wrote and premiered his groundbreaking work Rappresentatione del alma e di corpo with great success in 1600. The question remains, whether this work is considered an opera or an oratorio (sacred drama)!

The subject, an allegorical drama, is a lively debate over worldly vanities versus a spiritual life. It features six allegorical figures: Anima, the Soul (soprano), Corpo, the Body (baritone), Good Counsel (bass), Intellect (tenor), Time (bass), Pleasure (mezzo-soprano), and a chorus that comments on the action, accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Arias, recitativos, ensemble pieces and dance alternate to create a varied and dramatic and entertaining representation of the plot. This is something that we take for granted now, as we are so used to this format in opera, cantata, oratorio, and also the popular contemporary musicals.

Crescendo Chorus, Soloists and Period Instrument Orchestra, led by Christine Gevert

This concert will be repeated the following day, Sun., May 11, 2025 at 4 pm at Saint James Place ~ 352 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA 01230

Support for these concerts has been provided by the Connecticut State Department of Economic and Community Development/Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) from the Connecticut State Legislature, and NBT Bank. We also thank WMHT Radio for their ongoing support.