Händel goes wild

The ensemble L’Arpeggiata, led by Christina Pluhar, presented a unique fusion of Baroque music and jazz at the Badisches Staatstheater. While the combination of historical instruments, jazzy harmonies, and unexpected musical twists captivated the audience, the evening was especially elevated by the outstanding performance of Valer Sabadus.

Sabadus impressed with his exceptional vocal control, refined intonation, and expressive dynamics. A highlight of the evening was his duet with soprano Johanna Falkinger in Caro/cara, tu mi accendi nel mio core. Their interplay was mesmerizing—at times harmoniously intertwined, at others playfully competitive. Sabadus' singing brought an extraordinary vibrancy to the music, further blurring the lines between genres.

In the improvisational finale, Sabadus showcased his virtuosity, seamlessly integrating his voice into the energetic fusion of Baroque and jazz. His performance not only captivated the audience but also added emotional depth to the music.

With prolonged applause and two encores, the audience celebrated the ensemble’s outstanding performance, with Sabadus at its center. L’Arpeggiata once again proved that early music can not only be preserved but also reimagined— with Sabadus as the radiant focal point of a musical journey full of surprises.

 

"A highlight of the evening was the solo performances by countertenor Valer Sabadus and soprano Johanna Falkinger, who showcased their refined intonation and masterful dynamic control. Particularly in Caro/cara, tu mi accendi nel mio core, they engaged in a captivating interplay—celebrating together, challenging each other, and ultimately merging into a musical dance."

(08.03.25 , Badische neuestes Nachrichten, Emma Dübner)

 

"Soprano Johanna Rosa Falkinger and countertenor Valer Sabadus were the absolutely phenomenal soloists of the evening, with Sabadus once again proving his top-tier status as a Händel interpreter. One of the encores, Dormite o pupille by Pietro Antonio Siani, was performed as a tribute to the late Bernd Feuchtner, while the other was the final duet from Monteverdi’s L'incoronazione di Poppea."

(11.03.25, Rheinpfalz, Karl Georg Berg)