Ombra mai fu, SERSE
Audio/Video (coming soon)
Program Notes:
In Handel's opera, the main character Xerxes, the emporer of Persia, sings of his love of the shade of a large, leafy tree, such a relief after the blazing heat of the desert.
Notes on preparation and performance:
This piece is a great introduction to singing in Italian, Baroque ornamentation, and concepts of clear, round vowels and long nots with dynamic shape and phrasing. Teach the plain melody in the first section first, and let that become very secure before introducing the ornamented version. Choirs are used to the same notes with new words, but not as much with the same words and modified notes!
Text
Ombra mai fu di vegetabile cara ed amabile soave piu.
Never was there any shade from such a beloved and dear tree more gentle and soothing.