Those good old times...

... when cronyism led to creativity

All those who honestly believe life was better in those days of yore, please raise their hands (and then prepare to be kept in after school). Political intrigues, corruption at the highest level - you name it! One thing, however, that was even more popular than the aforementioned "pleasures" was good old cronyism. When Maffeo Barberini became Pope Urban VIII, it therefore seemed natural that he should soon appoint his nephew Francesco Barberini to the position of cardinal. Francesco wasted no time slandering public money, but at least he spent it on something worthwhile - art. He employed a sizeable number of composers and was especially helpful in the development of the opera - no less than eight of them were performed during his stay in office and each one of them was a veritable event.

Raumklang Records is now bringing back some of the spirit of these days as the launch "La Tavola Cromatica", a journey into the music that Barberini fostered. Because only few the names have made it into the conscience of the new millenium, this album invites its listeners to explore. If you haven't as yet heard of Ercole Bottrigari, Pomponio Nenna or Cherubino Waesich, this is your time to find out about them and listen to a wide range of forms and modes of expression. The CD features The Earl his Viols, an early music ensemble and Soprano Evelyn Tubb (see picture). Tubb can be considered an expert on finding lost treasures of ancient eras and has manifested her love for this especially through her work with the Consort of Musicke.

By the way: After Maffeo died, the Barberinis came under criticism for some dubious financial affairs. They fled, later came back but never retained their former glory.

Homepage: Raumklang
Homepage: Evelyn Tubb
Source: Francesco Barberini (in German only)