Historia di Jephte by Giacomo Carissimi: A Conductor’s Guide

Abstract

The research I present here is a detailed analysis of Historia di Jephte (c. 1648) by Giacomo Carissimi (bap. 1605–1674). The purpose of this analysis is not only to provide a conductor’s guide to performing the work, but also to establish a foundation for understanding music composition and performance practices of the mid-seventeenth century. The analysis is broken down in three main areas: 1) harmonic and melodic analysis to identify tonal centers related to affect, 2) structural analysis to consider the differences between analysis of a two-part structure and a three-part structure, and 3) rehearsal pedagogies and performance practices that reflect consistency with ideas of musical affect in mid-seventeenth century Baroque music. In addition, detailed information about the musical styles leading up to Historia di Jephte is presented to understand a holistic view of early monody and drama employed within sacred music.