The first time I heard any Antonio Vivaldi work played live was in the glorious city of Prague. The small group from church that I was with had been handed fliers for a small chamber concert, a string quartet performing in a beautiful Baroque palace in the heart of Old Town. The main program was Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” cycle of violin concertos.
The quartet was set up on the landing of this grand staircase, with our seats set up on the steps of the staircase. Such a beautiful night!
My latest Vivaldi favorite, however, is the Gloria.
My favorite movements of the piece are the 1st movement (Gloria, In Excelsis Deo) and 11th & 12th movements (Quoniam to solus sanctus & Cum Sancto Spiritu). The Quoniam actually brings back most of the theme of the beginning Gloria – just something to listen for.
La Voce Vivace 