I don't have the numbers, but this recording brings more musical forces to bear than "authentic" performances. The string sections sound deep, more like a small orchestra than a chamber group. The chorus sounds very large. The brass and woodwind sections, however, sound very small, and they sound to me like they are accents rather than equal partners like in a modern orchestra. The recording, made in the 1970's, has a lot of reverberation, so it has a vast cathedral sound. I think this really makes the music come alive and makes the slow movements more reverent, though I can see why some would find it distracting or muddy. It also makes the chorus and and string sections sound larger than they would in a regular studio setting.

In my opinion the second section of Gloria (Et in terra pax--and peace on earth) is the transcendent crowning achievement of Vivaldi's career, so my judgment of the CD centers on this distressingly short passage. In comparison, the Magnificat is an interesting prelude and the rest of Gloria is the setting for this jewel. The few times I have heard it live it has always brought tears to my eyes, and after years of listening to this recording I am still deeply moved every time I hear it--usually not to the point of tears but always with chills down my spine. The tempo is slow and stately, bringing out the majesty and reverence in the music (perhaps at the expense of the Baroque filigree). Through most of the piece the chorus isn't working hard; the tones are almost hushed, and the strings are achingly silky. But Multi doesn't let it get sentimental or lugubrious: at the crescendos he doesn't just raise the volume, he also raises the agitation, which adds to the emotional power. He does this partly by keeping a strong driving rhythm in the strings at the right places (this sounds like a faint precursor of Beethoven's rhythms to me). More of the agitated effect comes from the tone of the chorus itself. The crescendos aren't performed as just the standard build-up to a conclusion. The hushed, reverent tones of the quiet parts rise up in a lament, almost a cry of anguish for peace. It is the heartbreaking contrast of such pure beauty of music and sentiment with such agitation that gives it such an emotional impact.

In the fast sections, Multi keeps a spry, sometimes driving rhythm. The Baroque purists might prefer a lighter touch, but I think this works well also.

In conclusion, if you are willing to abandon the idea of a historical reenactment or a standard Baroque concert piece and embrace Multi's interpretation of a deeply spiritual and emotional composition performed in a Romantic spirit, then this is a tour de force and a must for any who want to explore Vivaldi's choral work.


The music of heaven   July 20, 2001
 7 out of 8 found this review helpful

This CD lives up to its title: it is truly one of the great recordings of the century. Vivaldi's Magnificat and Gloria are beautifully sung and expertly conducted. The sound quality is quite good. It is a listening pleasure that gets better each time you hear it.


The best performance of these pieces ever !!!   September 1, 2004
 7 out of 7 found this review helpful

After hearing more than 5 performances of the Magnificat and Gloria on LP's, CD's, radio and live, I can most certainly decide that this disc is the best media offering these two wonderful pieces !!!
This old-recording brings you the real touch, feel and depth of these great pieces - it's too good to be true...

For all of you classic lovers and even those who hear classical music here and there, it is a "must have disc" - no matter its cost.

James




Two superb singers   April 17, 2004
 5 out of 5 found this review helpful

I discovered this record listening to the radio and looked for it for years, I finally found around 20 years ago and it's been with me all the time.

I only wanted to add to the other reviews my opinion about the two singers: Teresa Berganza and Lucia Valentini-Terrani they are so excelent performers and are so inspired in this recording that their presence justifies this record purchase.


beautiful   April 21, 2008
i have an original copy of this recording on vinyl and if this transfer is anything like the original,and knowing emi remasters it probably is,this is a beautiful performance as well as recording.highly recomended