Music for a Holy Roman Empress

The ancient Christian empire seems to be gaining more and more attention – despite recent denunciations by Team Francis. Two weeks ago we had the pleasure of hearing a 17th century Holy Week oratorio by Johann Heinrich Schmelzer, written in 1678 for Emperor Leopold I. Just this last Saturday we attended the performance of a second short oratorio by Antonio Draghi, also first performed in Vienna in 1668. Giuditta (Judith) was composed for the chapel of the dowager empress Eleanora, widow of Emperor Ferdinand III (1637-57). The oratorio was performed by the “Academy of Sacred Drama” which has as its aim the exploration of the “forgotten cultural treasures of sacred dramatic music.” Amazing that such groups have arisen here in the City! The venue was Corpus Christi Church near Columbia.

Although only ten years separates the composition of the two oratorios, they are quite different. Giuditta is shorter and has a more operatic text. Judith Malafronte gave a scholarly introduction to the piece. The evening concluded with two beautiful works: the Laurentian Litany by Francesco Durante and a Stabat Mater by Antonio Draghi.