cast: Emily Misch, Nils Neubert, Peter Walker, Daniel Moody, Sarah Hawkey
director: Jeremy Rhizor
guest speaker: Prof. Jane Tylus
genres: sacred drama, oratorio, biblical drama, Baroque music, Italian music, Italian-language libretto
The recreation of this forgotten oratorio was made possible by a new edition based on the 1705 manuscript in the Österreichische Nationalbibliothek in Vienna transcribed and edited by Jeremy Rhizor and Jonathan Woody. Additionally, a new English translation was written by Lucy Yates based on manuscript.
The Academy 2017–2018 season features three Italian oratorios based upon the deuterocanonical Book of Judith.
Jeremy Rhizor, music director and violin
Prof. Jane Tylus, guest speaker (Nov 18th only)
Emily Misch, Giuditta (soprano)
Nils Neubert, Testo (tenor)
Peter Walker, Ozia (bass-baritone)
Daniel Moody, Olofernes (countertenor)
Sarah Hawkey, Vagao (eunuch of Olofernes) (soprano)
Lewis Baratz, recorder
Maureen Murchie, violin
Daniel McCarthy, viola
Ana Kim, cello
Arash Noori, theorbo
Patrick Jones, harpsichord
Edition based on the 1705 manuscript in the Österreichische Nationalbibliothek, Vienna
edition: Jeremy Rhizor and Jonathan Woody
Translation based on the manuscript
translation: Lucy Yates
Program Order
First Half of Oratorio
Contextual Lecture by Prof. Jane Tylus
Intermission with Reception
Second Half of Oratorio
The October 2017 Academy Journal explores the text and context of Domenico Freschi’s Giuditta, takes a look at the Academy format, highlights the efforts of other organizations offering performances of Baroque-era sacred music, and draws upon expert commentary and Academy of Sacred Drama member contributions. Become a member to receive an Academy Journal subscription.
View the facsimile of the manuscript in the Österreichische Nationalbibliothek in Vienna here.