Bronx Arts Ensemble & Courtney’s Stars of Tomorrow at St. Philip Neri Church

A Baroque Fantasy

The 20th century marked a vibrant revival of Baroque music, ushering in an era of rediscovery that breathed new life into numerous forgotten works and long-neglected performance practices. Among the composers who enjoyed this resurgence is Antonio Vivaldi, who, after fading into obscurity following his death, has enjoyed a remarkable revival that shows no signs of easing. While Vivaldi is perhaps best known for his warhorse works such as The Four Seasons, the Gloria, and the Violin Concerto in A Minor, his lesser-known Latin motets deserve special attention for their dramatic intensity and lavish, ornate style. These works, characterized by their rich textures and emotional depth, often sit in the shadow of his more celebrated compositions. Yet, they reveal a profound artistic vision that continues to captivate audiences today. Composers, too, have long been captivated by the grandeur and richness of the Baroque period. This deep-seated fascination inspired composer Courtney Carey to craft a unique rendition of the Stabat Mater. His version features a contralto or countertenor alongside a tenor and bass soloist, augmented by the distinctive timbres and textures of Baroque-era instruments. Carey’s work not only pays homage to the past but also brings forth the lush sonorities that define this remarkable musical epoch.

“A Baroque Fantasy” artfully juxtaposes two Latin motets by Antonio Vivaldi and the Baroque-inspired setting of the poignant hymn “Stabat Mater” by Courtney Carey. The concert invites the audience to experience the vibrant, intricate musical landscape of the Baroque era, blending sacred themes with lush melodic lines that resonate with grace and beauty.

PROGRAM

Dr. Taione Martinez, St. Philip Neri Church’s Music Director

Stabat Mater – Courtney Carey
Daveda Browne, mezzo-soprano
Scott La Marca, tenor
Justice Yates, bass-baritone
Bronx Arts Ensemble Chamber Orchestra
Courtney Carey, conductor

In furore iustissimae irae – Antonio Vivaldi
Olanna Goudeau, soprano
Bronx Arts Ensemble Chamber Orchestra
Courtney Carey, conductor

Cessate, omai cessate – Antonio Vivaldi
Daveda Browne, mezzo-soprano
Bronx Arts Ensemble Chamber Orchestra
Courtney Carey, conductor

PERFORMERS

Bronx Arts Ensemble Orchestra
Jorge Avila, violin
Susan Dominguez, violin
Kristen Linfante, viola
Leo Grinhauz, cello
Kathy Halvorson, oboe
Steven Palacio, bassoon

COURTNEY’S STARS OF TOMORROW is an arts conduit committed to promoting and presenting classical musicians of the highest caliber and is a vehicle to feature them in concert, recital, and opera. Additionally, Courtney’s Stars of Tomorrow targets a multi-generational, ethnically diverse audience of both classical music lovers and those who have never been exposed to the medium.

Further, through various education initiatives and partnerships, Courtney’s Stars of Tomorrow extends opportunities to school-age children to study, create, present, and attend classical music performances.

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Council and NYC Department of Cultural Affairs’ FY2025 Cultural Development Fund (CDF).