Maria Cristina Kiehr, Caldara: In lagrime stemprato, from Maddalena

In lagrime stemprato il cor qui cade, from the oratorio Maddalena ai piedi di Cristo, Antonio Caldara (c. 1700). Maria Cristina Kiehr, soprano. Maria's voice sounds especially suitable for Baroque repertoire, both because her natural voice is far more focused and precise than most singers today, and also because her extensive training included specialized vocal training with countertenor and voice coach René Jacob. Her vocal elements of focus and clarity appear to be similar to the contemporary descriptions of castrato voices.
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In lagrime stemprato il cor qui cade
Già s'elesse
per l'orme impresse
del tuo piè di seguir del ciel le strade.

My heart dissolves in tears, and sinks.
It has chosen here and now
to follow in Thy footsteps
the road to heaven.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Kiehr
• Caldara
• Maddalena
• soprano
• voice
• Baroque
• oratorio
• castrato

[FloriaTosca85]

This is brilliant singing. Of course the singer has the natural color and timbre to suit Baroque and also a deep understanding of the style and genre.

[sfkcbf]

@FloriaTosca85 The comment from my soprano friend from Bucharest is succinct but implies much. I have communicated with her for some years, and she consistently has demonstrated in-depth understanding of singing and the unique requirements of Baroque music and also of approximating the castrato voice, apparently more so than some American teachers, opera directors, and the author of one "Baroque" article in Opera News. Vocci bianché is an exception, rather than the rule.

[shelterit]

This is an epic song from an epic oratory from an epic recording of it. It is possibly the one recording I'd bring to a deserted island. And Maria Cristina Kiehr gives one of her most amazing performances. Can I love this more? I don't think so.

[joeeykful]

I know nothing about classical music but this sounds amazing. simply breathtaking. I love it

[77Opera]

Magnifique!

[awyliu]

For once I am speechless.

[FloriaTosca85]

@sfkcbf Baroque voices are not vocci bianche in the strict sense of the word(lack of harmonics).There are rules of using vibrato in baroque, as you well know. Maria Cristina Kiehr is not only lucky to possess the right voice but also a good musician that understands the music and approaches it sensibly and professionally.

[FloriaTosca85]

@sfkcbf Thank you! I am pleased to know you appreciate my views. I donnot, however consider myself that much of an expert, merely lucky enough to hear the right things. Le vocci bianche are not necessarily exceptions, they just need to be used properly, and be directed to the right music genres.