Giacomo Carissimi was one of the most admired composers of the 17th century, renowned for his vital contribution to the development of the oratorio and secular cantata. Born in 1605, in Marino, near Rome, Italy, Carissimi began his career in the early Baroque period, a time characterized by significant innovations in musical composition and performance. He was a prolific composer, with his works including oratorios, cantatas, and sacred music, illustrating the depth of his expertise across multiple musical forms.

Carissimi's tenure as the maestro di cappella at the Collegio Germanico, a Jesuit seminary in Rome, solidified his stature in the world of sacred music. His compositions during this period, such as "Jephte," "Jonas," and "Judicium extremum," showcased not only his mastery of counterpoint and ability to craft deeply emotional narratives but also his innovative use of chorus and soloists to enhance the storytelling. These works, blending scripture with expressive musical storytelling, set a precedent for oratorio that influenced future generations of composers, including Handel and Bach. Despite his profound impact on the development of Baroque music, Carissimi left no direct students to carry on his legacy, making his luminous compositions and the historical recordings of them even more precious. Carissimi passed away in 1674, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be celebrated for its inventive harmony, expressive depth, and dramatic intensity.

Genres

Baroque

Early Music

Renaissance

Latest Release

Carissimi: Semplicetta beltà

Giacomo Carissimi

Single - Released March 10, 2023