Immerse yourself in the sacred and historic sounds of medieval music with this exquisite album featuring the works of Guillaume de Machaut. This recording, released in 1966 on the Tudor label, offers a unique blend of Gregorian chant and classical compositions, all performed with meticulous attention to historical accuracy.
The album showcases two primary works: Guillaume de Machaut's masterpiece "La Messe de Nostre Dame," a polyphonic setting of the Mass Ordinary, and the Gregorian Proper chants for the Feast of the Assumption. The performances by The London Ambrosian Singers and Les Ménestrels de Vienne, under the direction of John McCarthy, bring a sense of reverence and clarity to these ancient texts and melodies.
The album begins with the solemn Gregorian chant "Introitus" and continues through the various movements of the Mass, including the "Kyrie," "Gloria," "Credo," "Sanctus," and "Agnus Dei." Interspersed are the Gregorian Proper chants for the Feast of the Assumption, adding a layer of liturgical richness to the recording. The album concludes with the "Ite, missa est," marking the end of the Mass.
With a total duration of 37 minutes, this album is a concise yet profound exploration of medieval sacred music. Whether you are a scholar of medieval music, a fan of Gregorian chant, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of classical music, this recording offers a captivating journey through the sounds of the Middle Ages.