Vivaldi Video (DVD)

Vivaldi Video(VHS/DVD). This program retraces the life and places, the glories and despairs of Antonio Vivaldi, the red(haired) priest whose working relationship with a diva set tongues wagging and whose love for opera led to his downfall. And throughout and above all, of course, his music. Exquisite performances of the range of his work, from the "Estro Armonico" and other string masterpieces, pieces from some operas, "Juditha Triumphans," and examples of the sacred vocal music, are set against contemporary paintings and still-standing monuments and artifacts to show us the brilliant violin virtuoso who was said to be able to play on all four strings at once, to explain the qualities of Stradivarius’ violins, and to trace the rise and fall of the inimitable Antonio Vivaldi. Written and directed by Lina Wertm?ller. In Italian with English subtitles. (55 minutes)