Charpentier: Messe Des Morts / Psalmus Davidis / Salve Regina

Immerse yourself in the sacred and evocative world of Marc-Antoine Charpentier with this captivating collection of his most profound choral works. Released on July 15, 2014, this album presents a meticulously curated selection of Charpentier's compositions, showcasing his mastery of the French Baroque style.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Velum templi," a responsory for Holy Thursday, followed by the monumental "Messe des morts à 4 voix et symphonie, H. 10," a powerful setting of the Mass for the Dead. This piece alone is a testament to Charpentier's genius, with its dramatic orchestration and deeply expressive choral writing.

The album also features the enchanting "In nativitatem Domini canticum, H. 416," a Christmas canticle that highlights Charpentier's ability to blend sacred text with exquisite melody. The collection is rounded out with the penitential "Psalm 87, H. 207" and the devotional "Salve Regina a 3 choeurs, H. 24," both of which demonstrate Charpentier's skill in setting Latin text to music.

This album is a treasure trove for fans of Baroque choral music, offering a rich and varied exploration of Charpentier's sacred output. With a duration of approximately one hour, it provides a comprehensive introduction to the composer's style and his enduring influence on the world of classical music. Recorded by the esteemed label Hungaroton, this album promises a high-quality listening experience that will delight and inspire.