This peaceful and calming spiritual collection of Gregorian chants presents the music of a Medieval Funeral Mass, as it would have been chanted in the 14th century ushering the body of the newly deceased from this world into Paradise. The Requiem Mass, one of the most beautiful and frequently performed Masses of the Medieval period, forms the centerpiece of Gloriæ Dei Cantores Schola's acclaimed recording Gregorian Requiem.
Antiphons for the Funeral Vigil, antiphons chanted before the Funeral Mass, and chants sung as the casket is carried from the church, are included as well. Well-loved favorites including, "Requiem Aeternum," "In Paradisum," "Lux Aeterna" and "Dies Irae, Dies Illa," sometimes known for their inclusion in more modern Requiems such as those by Mozart, Verdi and Durufle, are highlights from this collection.
Gloriæ Dei Cantores Schola brings a wealth of experience to the chants, as they have chanted the offices for thirty years. They are particularly known for their sensitivity to text and phrasing, and have spent many years studying the rhythmic aspects of the chants as reflected in the Laon manuscript, among others. This re-release follows their tradition of subtle, elegant interpretations of Gregorian chant that are most moving and worshipful.
Reviews
"Besides the full Mass, the Gloriae Dei Cantores provide all the attendant and optional chants. Music of extreme dignity as well as melodic beauty dominate these chants, some of the supreme examples in the entire liturgy. Performances are expert by the mixed choir--"mixed" both as to women and men, and clergy plus laity. The 44-voice Gloriae Dei Cantores, elegant of timber, specialize in Gregorian music, and indeed, perform it almost daily. That's a major advantage for a release such as this, captures in high-tech sonics. Outstanding!" —In Tune Magazine
"The phrasing is carefully shaped, the articulation and intonation are precise, and the diction is crystal clear. In sum, this is a fine recording by a fine group: certainly a standout among the relatively large number of chant recordings abroad these days." —The American Organist
"A rich, wonderful presentation of Requiem chants. Many listen to chants for the meditative, relaxing atmosphere they set. Some enjoy this music in its classical sense. Still others use recorded chants as part of their personal worship. This album will satisfy all who enjoy chants. Gregorian Requiem was recorded at Mechanics Hall in Worcester, MA, one of the world's greatest music halls. The quality of recording is superior--audiophiles will want this album for its nearly perfect sound. An album of Gregorian chant for those who want to experience authentic medieval worship or a deeply spiritual musical experience. Gregorian Requiem is an excellent recording in its own rite and a must for classical music fans." — Christian Retailing
"The Gloriae Dei Cantores Schola is a finely honed choral group specializing in Gregorian chant. They are more than that, though, they are a mixed group of sixteen Benedictine religious whose daily lives incorporate chant and have since the mid-seventies. This is singing polished to the point of reflex with the added element of absolute conviction which turns finesse into inspiration. The subtleties of rhythm, nuance, movement are complex but as natural as breathing. Most amazingly, all is sung in absolute unison with not so much as a hint of an errant inflection. I don't imagine chant gets much better than this. The male and female voices weave strong, silken ribbons of ethereal sound. The superb acoustics of Mechanics Hall in Worcester, MA are an active participant in the clarity and depth these voices achieve. This recording is a fine choice for anyone who wants to hear chant at its most fluid."—Harmonia Early Music Newsletter
Author Bio
Gloriae Dei Cantores Schola is dedicated to the singing and study of Gregorian chant. Its expertise and experience come from daily chanting of the Liturgy of the Hours as well as the Ordinary and Proper of the Mass at the Church of the Transfiguration. The Schola also conducts chant workshops and performs in concert with Gloriae Dei Cantores. Years of study with the late Dr Mary Berry, CBE, founder of the Schola Gregoriana in Cambridge, England, and the Monks of St. Peter's Abbey, Solesmes, France, also contributes to the Schola's passion for Gregorian chant as a vibrant and living form of sung prayer.
