
Masters of The Renaissance
By (artist) Gloriae Dei Cantores
- ISBN: 9781557254979
- Trim size: 0 x 0 inches
- Weight: 3 ounces.
- Publication Date: 01 May 2006
- Product ID: G114
- Format: CD-Audio
This release from Gloriæ Dei Cantores features sacred music from one of the most inspired periods in the arts: the Renaissance. Each of the European schools of composition (Italian, Flemish, German, Spanish, and English) is represented by a total of twenty composers, offering a fascinating cross-section of styles and influences. Great masters such as Lassus, Byrd, and Victoria are featured, as well as lesser-known composers such as Hassler, de Wert, and Nanino.
The central work of this recording is the Missa super Bella Amfitrit' altera by Lassus, generally considered one of his finest works. Other selections include Anerio's tender and stirring Requiem aeternum and William Byrd's Terra tremuit, which has been described as "one of the most dramatic texts in the whole of music."
Premiere and Only Works:
Requiem Aeternam Anerio
Improperium Lassus
Rorate Caeli Handl
Media
—The American Organist
—Fanfare
—Harmonia Early Music Newsletter
"Gloriae Dei Cantores is the only amateur choir I know of that can beat many a professional ensemble at their own game. Here...is a generous survey of luscious Renaissance choral music performed in a special venue: Mechanics Hall in Worcester, MA -- a restored 19th century edifice that has hosted many notable historical figures, from politicians to musicians. . . .I've lost count of the albums I've covered from this group -- what can I say about them without sounding like a broken record? . . . Ms. Patterson is a true choral alchemist, and never fails to draw truly golden sound and beautifully nuanced singing from her hard-working musicians. Sacred illumination is their mission, and they achieve it with spiritual sincerity and power...Recorded sound is especially ravishing, capturing Mechanics Hall's warm, yet detailed acoustic. Excellent notes and full texts. —American Record Guide