Vanitas Vanitatum
“Farewell laughter, farewell singing, farewell delights of the world!” wrote Luigi Rossi. In the 17th century, Roman composers were surrounded by the remains of one of the greatest civilizations the world has ever known, so it’s no surprise that their texts explore the passing of Time and the ephemeral nature of physical beauty and pleasure. These rich and intense musical settings are passionate, dramatic arguments for the value of enjoying life’s fleeting pleasures. Music by Carissimi, Rossi, Marazzoli, and more.