Discover the musical soul of the Estense seventeenth century
Dear Visitor,
whether you are a fan of early music, a scholar, a musician, or a curious person attracted to Italian cultural history, this crowdfunding project is for you!
Support with us the publication of the volume L’Oratorio nella Modena di Francesco II d’Este (1674-1694), the result of extensive work between musicological research and cultural enhancement.
With the achievement of the goal, we will also be able to bring to a conclusion the publication of the CD Il Giosuè, by Giovanni Bononcini (Modena, 1688).
The project: a volume, a CD
In the heart of the second half of the 17th century, Francesco II d’Este, Duke of Modena, transformed his court into one of the most vibrant musical hubs in Europe. His passion for music, especially the oratorio genre, attracted musicians, composers and singers from all over Italy to Modena.
The book, written by Matteo Giannelli, stems from the study of unpublished archival documents, manuscript scores and 95 librettos of oratorios performed during the 20 years of his reign, and offers a fascinating overview of:
- The places of executions (such as the oratory of San Carlo Rotondo);
- The protagonists (composers, instrumentalists, singers);
- The hidden symbologies in the booklets in reference to international politics (particularly the Glorious English Revolution and Maria Beatrice d’Este, Queen of England and sister of the Duke;
- Implementation methods;
- Links to “cultural” politics.
Through these pages, you will rediscover the evocative power of sacred musical theater as an aesthetic and spiritual paradigm that spread throughout Europe (see in-depth study by Matteo Giannelli). For more information on the contents of this volume, contact Matteo Giannelli at mgiannelli.phd@gmail.com
Il Giosuè was first performed in Modena for Francesco II d’Este in 1688, and is the first evidence of a sacred oratorio by the young Giovanni Bononcini. First performed in Modena in modern times in 2020, with a critical edition by Matteo Giannelli, it was later recorded under the direction of Michele Vannelli, head of the Cappella Musicale di San Petronio.
Characters and performers:
- TEXT – Sonia Tedla Chebreab (soprano);
- GIOSUÈ – Enrico Torre (countertenor);
- KING OF JERUSALEM – Gabriele Lombardi (bass);
- KING OF HEBRON – Alberto Allegrezza (tenor);
- QUEEN OF HEBRON – Valentina Coladonato (soprano).
How you can help us
With your contribution you will help Greatness & Wonder support the publication and dissemination of the book and the production of the CD. Crowdfunding is open to free donations or with set thresholds, each accompanied by special rewards. CLICK HERE to donate your contribution to the realization of the project! Rewards on the donation platform site.
Thank you!
Your support will give voice to a forgotten musical heritage, enhancing unpublished artistic testimonies of European value.
