The strains of Vivaldi and Rossini filled the Paul the VI hall on Thursday evening
in a concert given by the Italian President Giorgio Napolitano marking the 6th
Anniversary of the election of Pope Benedict to the See of Peter. The music loving
Pope was treated to a rendition of Vivaldi’s Creed in E minor and Rossini’s Stabat
Mater which were both performed by the Soloists, Orchestra and Chorus of the Teatro
dell'Opera in Rome. At the end of this musical evening Pope Benedict expressed
his great appreciation to the Italian president and those who had made the event possible. His
speech to those in the Paul the VI Hall also demonstrated the Holy Father’s knowledge
of music. The Pope described both Vivaldi and Rossini as two great Italian musicians
and he remarked that it was fitting that their works should be chosen in the year
that Italy celebrates its 150 year of Unification. Recalling Vivaldi’s Creed in
E minor, Pope Benedict said this work of sacred music dominated by choral singing,
brings to the fore the expression of faith. Speaking of Rossini’s masterpiece
Stabat Mater, the Holy Father described it as a great meditation on the mystery
of Jesus' death and the deep sorrow of Mary. In bringing to a close this musical
celebration the Pope said, “I hope the songs tonight have nurtured our faith.”
Listen to Lydia O'Kane's report here