Both born in 1685, Johann Sebastian Bach and Domenico Scarlatti, although reunited in this program, did not follow the same path. J. S. Bach, a sedentary and deeply Lutheran composer, spent his whole life in Germany and was barely known in Europe in his lifetime. D. Scarlatti, born in Naples, moved to Venice and Rome, traveled through Tuscany, Portugal and eventually Spain, where he will spent his last years. 

Within his vocal production, the Stabat Mater certainly is the most ambitious and famous work by Scarlatti. It is also very distinct, in many aspects, from the rest of his music. It is one of the most important sacred Italian works of the XVIIIth century and Scarlatti’s most complex composition: its length, its irresistible dramatic depth, its stylistic unity along with a large variety of vocal timbres make it unique in many ways.

Both funeral motets by Bach, Jesu, meine Freude and Komm, Jesu, komm are amongst his top a capella works.

Each part of this program is opening with works from their respective prestigious precursors: J.H. Schein and C. Monteverdi.