Baroque singer-virtuoso and composer Barbara Strozzi (1619-1677) was one of the most prominent Italian composers of the 17th century, contributing significantly to the development of a new genre of music, the cantata, and publishing as many as 8 collections of her works, more than the most famous composers of the time. In a society dominated by men, this courageous woman managed to become a unique composer whose musical visions continue to thrill audiences centuries later. Her cantatas and arias, like mini operas, convey the experience of love in a particularly emotional, melodic and dramatic way: unexpected dissonances, sudden leaps, dynamic changes of episodes and contrasting moods engage the listener in a real drama of feelings.
The programme prepared by the baroque singer Renata Dubinskaitė presents in detail the music of B. Strozzi's works. It is complemented by the singer's stories about the composer's life, introducing the audience to this inspiring and talented woman. In 2021, together with the ensemble Canto Fiorito, she recorded a solo album "Barbara Strozzi. La voce sola", released by the Netherlands-based record label Brilliant Classics and broadcast on BBC Radio, France Musique, US and Australian radio programmes. International music critics have enthusiastically reviewed the CD:
“...this ‘solo voice’ belongs to the great Lithuanian mezzo-soprano Renata Dubinskaite, who has a deep knowledge of the repertoire of Renaissance and Baroque music, perfected by working with the greatest masters of the present day; who sings comfortably in all registers; and whose deep and carnal voice, with its dramatic abilities, simply carries us along and convinces us, and that is the most important thing in this passionate music.” (Marc Galand, www.clicmusique.com)
“Mezzo-soprano Renata Dubinskaitė, who is also the artistic director of this CD, has a wonderfully pure voice that is capable of conveying a huge range of emotions.” (Colin Clarke, Fanfare Magazine, New York)
