CANTARA EL ALMA: Sebastián de Vivanco y la música sagrada en el Siglo de Oro

Immerse yourself in the sacred sounds of the Spanish Renaissance with "CANTARA EL ALMA: Sebastián de Vivanco y la música sagrada en el Siglo de Oro." This captivating album, released on December 30, 2022, under the Cathedralis label, showcases the profound and intricate choral works of Sebastián de Vivanco, a prominent composer of the Golden Age of Spanish music. Spanning a rich 75 minutes, the album is a testament to Vivanco's mastery of polyphonic composition, offering a diverse collection of sacred pieces that range from intimate four-part settings to grand eight and nine-part choral works.

The album opens with the somber "Versa est in luctum," a six-voice motet that sets the stage for a spiritual journey through Vivanco's sacred repertoire. Highlights include the intricate "Missa Beata Maria Virgine in sabatho," a four-voice mass that demonstrates Vivanco's contrapuntal skill, and the exultant "Cantate Domino," an eight-voice motet that showcases the ensemble's dynamic range. The album also features several pieces drawn from the manuscript E-SAc LP 1, offering a unique glimpse into Vivanco's compositional process.

Performed by the acclaimed Ensemble Plus Ultra, this recording is a triumph of historical performance practice, with each piece brought to life with vivid clarity and expressive nuance. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance choral music or a newcomer to the genre, "CANTARA EL ALMA" is a compelling introduction to the sacred music of Sebastián de Vivanco, a composer whose works continue to resonate with listeners today.