Vivaldi: Gloria - Nisi Dominus - Nulla in mundo pax

Russian mezzo Julia Lezhneva unites with countertenor Franco Fagioli for a nicely varied collection of Vivaldi’s sacred music. The Gloria features invigorating string writing and a rousing choral contribution, while the Nisi Dominus has a heart-stoppingly beautiful “Cum dederit” that’s almost a barcarolle with its gently rocking motion. Diego Fasolis directs with terrific style, but it’s the two solo singers who make the biggest impression, blending gloriously when in duet: Lezhneva with a subdued passion and Fagioli rich and firm of tone.