The Upcoming Event of Missa di Requiem by Domenico Sarro will soon witness an extraordinary revival. On April 12, 2025, the historically rich city of Naples, Italy, will host a long-awaited performance of Domenico Sarro’s Missa di Requiem. This event not only celebrates a forgotten masterpiece but also shines a light on a composer whose work deeply shaped early 18th-century music. Let’s dive into Sarro’s life, his contributions, and what to expect from this exciting musical event.

Who Was Domenico Sarro?

Early Life and Education:

Domenico Sarro, born on December 24, 1679, in Trani, in the Apulia region of Italy, quickly rose through the musical ranks thanks to his prodigious talent. He studied at the Conservatorio di Sant’Onofrio a Porta Capuana in Naples, one of the most prestigious music institutions of the time. His training in the Neapolitan school gave him the skills and style that would define his works.

Career and Achievements:

Sarro first gained recognition through his sacred music compositions. However, he eventually turned to opera, where he left an indelible mark. In 1724, Sarro composed Didone abbandonata, which was the first opera set to a libretto by Pietro Metastasio. This work became a major success and showcased his gift for dramatic expression.

His most prestigious achievement came in 1737, when his opera Achille in Sciro was chosen to inaugurate the Teatro di San Carlo in Naples—today the oldest active opera house in the world. Clearly, Sarro held a central role in shaping the musical identity of Naples during his time.

Sarro’s Body of Work:

Domenico Sarro composed a wide variety of music, including:

• Operas: Didone abbandonata, Achille in Sciro, Partenope, Valdemaro

• Sacred Music: Missa di Requiem, motets, masses, and oratorios

• Instrumental Works: Cantatas and sinfonias, though fewer than his vocal compositions

Although opera brought him fame, his sacred music especially the ”Missa di Requiem” reveals his depth, spirituality, and mastery of counterpoint.

The Missa di Requiem: A Rediscovered Gem

For many years, Sarro’s Missa di Requiem remained buried in archives, largely forgotten by modern audiences. Recently, Paologiovanni Maione, a noted musicologist, rediscovered the score in the Austrian National Library in Vienna. This Requiem, believed to have been composed around 1743, reveals Sarro’s deep understanding of choral textures and sacred form.

Enrico Gramigna painstakingly transcribed the score, making it suitable for contemporary performance without sacrificing historical accuracy. Thanks to their efforts, audiences today can once again appreciate this masterful work.

When and Where Will the Event Take Place?

The event will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Chiesa di Santa Caterina da Siena, located in the heart of Naples. This historic church offers an intimate and atmospheric setting that will perfectly complement the solemn and spiritual nature of the Requiem.

How Will the Performance Happen?

The upcoming concert brings together some of the finest Baroque ensembles and conductors:

• Talenti Vulcanici will perform the instrumental parts, directed by Stefano Demicheli, an expert in historically informed performance.

• Coro Exultate, under the baton of Davide Troìa, will bring the choral sections to life with rich, powerful harmonies.

• The Schola Gregoriana della Pietà de’ Turchini, led by Lanfranco Menga, will perform the Gregorian chant portions of the Mass, enhancing the sacred ambiance.

Together, these ensembles will present the Missa di Requiem as it might have sounded in 18th-century Naples authentic, emotional, and deeply moving.

Why This Event Matters:

This performance does more than entertain; it reconnects modern listeners with a nearly forgotten masterpiece. Sarro’s Missa di Requiem blends drama, beauty, and spirituality in a way that only a true Baroque master could achieve. Moreover, the event places Naples at the center of the early music revival, honoring its legacy as a hub of creativity and religious expression.

Final Thoughts:

Whether you are a long-time classical music enthusiast or simply someone looking for a soul-stirring experience, this event promises to deliver a powerful encounter with history and sound. Tickets have already sold out, but you can sign up for alerts on Ticketoo in case any become available.

Don’t miss the chance to witness a musical resurrection. On April 12, Domenico Sarro returns to Naples—not as a historical figure, but as a living voice through his music.