Gilles: Requiem

Jean Gilles' "Requiem" is a monumental work of sacred music, finally brought to modern audiences in this seminal 1990 recording. Composed by the French Baroque master Jean Gilles, this Requiem is a profound exploration of faith and mortality, showcasing Gilles' mastery of the French grand motet style. This album presents the first modern performance of Gilles' celebrated Requiem, meticulously reconstructed from the original manuscript and freed from the later embellishments of André Campra.

Conducted by the renowned Philippe Herreweghe, this recording features the Choeurs du Festival d'Aix en Provence and the Ensemble Vocal Sagittarius, delivering a powerful and nuanced interpretation of Gilles' intricate polyphony. The album also includes the complete performance of "Diligam te, Domine," a stunning six-part motet that complements the Requiem with its own exploration of divine love and redemption.

The album spans seven movements of the Requiem, each a testament to Gilles' compositional skill, from the solemn "Introït" to the haunting "Agnus Dei." The additional six movements of "Diligam te, Domine" further enrich the listening experience, offering a deeper dive into Gilles' musical language. With a total duration of just over an hour, this album is a comprehensive introduction to one of the Baroque era's most significant yet underappreciated composers.

Recorded in 1990 and released by Harmonia Mundi, this album benefits from clear and vivid sound, allowing the intricate vocal textures and orchestral details to shine. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this recording of Jean Gilles' "Requiem" is an essential addition to your collection, offering a rare opportunity to experience the composer's profound and moving music.