The Genius of Monteverdi Juilliard 415 - A Historic Journey Back in Time Blending Music Opera and Dance

Claudio Monteverdi (b Italy 1567-1643) was a major composer credited with developing opera.  His compositions bridged the transition between Renaissance and Baroque music.  Monteverdi was a gifted string musician and noted choir master.  Many of his operas are religious reflections dwelling on demons, damnation & battles.  Last night's historical performance by Juilliard 415 was a magnificent tribute to Monteverdi's operas "Altri cant di Marte" and "Il ball Delle ingrate".  There were also musical compositions by his Italian contemporary composers Carlo Farina (1600-39) and Dario Castello (b 1590-1658).  The three composers works flowed seamlessly while transporting us back in time.   Authenticated instruments of the epoch were played.  It was interesting to see the two elongated harpsichord and organ along and the theorbo/guitar, viola da gamba, madrigals and violone.  There was a strong string section of violins, violas & cellos.  Interesting to note that the violinists all stood while playing perhaps as was the custom in the mid 16th C and early 17th C.  The talented opera singers & choir were a mix of int'l artists all studying at Juilliard.  The sopranos were from Serbia, Jerusalem, Canada, Republic of Georgia and various cities in the US.  The tenors came  from South Korea and the UK.  The two men singing bass were both exceptional haling from the US Andrew Munn and Alex Rosen.   Music is a healing art form that brings people together.  Listening to compositions from 500 years ago and seeing the diverse group of performers on stage was more than a joyous celebration of music, it was a tribute to humanity.  Added to this historical & moving evening was contemporary choreography by Peter Farrow.  Farrow's choreography and the accomplished dancers added an enriching layer that added impact.  The performance was a cherished respite from today's turmoils & an unforgettable evening of majestic music.