Scarlatti: The Triumph of Grace

Alessandro Scarlatti’s “Il Trionfo della Grazia” premiered in Rome in 1685 and was such a great success that the oratorio was performed regularly for a period of more than twenty years. Three manuscripts have survived, one each in Rome, Modena, and Dresden. The score is remarkably imaginative and profound for a 25-year-old composer; Scarlatti repeatedly revised and adapted it over the years. Ensemble Céladon focuses here on the first Roman version of the work and disregards later additions; the result is a lively and spirited work with a distinct dramatic sense, through which each performer can fully showcase their talent.