Composer

:

Antonio Vivaldi

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

before 1750

Average_duration

:

12:46

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

"Che giova il sospirar, povero core" is a vocal work composed by Antonio Vivaldi, an Italian Baroque composer, in the early 18th century. The piece is a solo cantata for soprano voice and continuo, and it is catalogued as RV 679 in Vivaldi's works. The cantata is believed to have been composed around 1715-1716, during Vivaldi's time as the maestro di violino at the Ospedale della Pietà in Venice. The piece was likely written for one of the talented female singers at the institution, who would have performed it during the regular musical performances held there. The cantata consists of three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is marked "Largo" and is in a slow, mournful tempo. The soprano sings of the futility of sighing and lamenting, as it does nothing to alleviate the pain of love. The second movement is marked "Allegro" and is in a faster, more lively tempo. Here, the soprano sings of the joy and freedom that comes from being released from the chains of love. The final movement is marked "Largo" and returns to the slow, mournful tempo of the first movement. The soprano sings of the pain and sorrow that remains even after love has been abandoned. The cantata is characterized by Vivaldi's typical use of virtuosic vocal writing, with long melismatic passages and intricate ornamentation. The vocal line is supported by a simple continuo accompaniment, consisting of a harpsichord or organ and a cello or bassoon. The piece is also notable for its expressive use of dissonance and chromaticism, which adds to the emotional intensity of the text. Overall, "Che giova il sospirar, povero core" is a beautiful example of Vivaldi's vocal writing, showcasing his ability to convey complex emotions through music. Its premiere date is unknown, but it remains a beloved piece in the Baroque vocal repertoire.

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