Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Renaissance polyphony with Heinrich Isaac's "Missa Wohlauff gut Gsell von hinnen & Other Works," a stunning collection of choral masterpieces performed by the acclaimed ensemble Cinquecento. Released on Hyperion in 2021, this album showcases Isaac's extraordinary talent and his enduring influence on the musical landscape of his time.
At the heart of this album is Isaac's monumental six-voice setting of the Mass Ordinary, "Missa Wohlauff gut Gsell von hinnen." This imposing work is one of Isaac's longest and most sonically splendid compositions, featuring a kaleidoscope of vocal combinations that highlight the composer's mastery of polyphony. Based on the popular song "Comment peult avoir joye?," this Mass is a testament to Isaac's ability to blend sacred and secular elements in a way that is both innovative and deeply moving.
In addition to the Mass, the album features a selection of other works by Isaac, including motets and choral pieces that demonstrate his versatility and depth as a composer. From the contemplative "Recordare, Jesu Christe" to the powerful "Quis dabit pacem populo timenti?," each piece is performed with precision and passion by Cinquecento, bringing Isaac's music to life in a way that is both authentic and engaging.
Heinrich Isaac, a composer of considerable renown during his lifetime, was sought after by some of the most influential patrons of his day, including Lorenzo de' Medici in Florence and Maximilian I in Vienna. His works, characterized by their intricate polyphony and expressive depth, continue to captivate audiences today. With "Missa Wohlauff gut Gsell von hinnen & Other Works," you have the opportunity to experience the genius of Heinrich Isaac in all its glory, performed by one of the finest ensembles of Renaissance music today. This album is a treasure trove of Renaissance choral music, offering over an hour and a half of exquisite performances that will delight and inspire.
Heinrich Isaac, a towering figure of the Renaissance, was a Franco-Flemish composer whose music transcended borders and languages. Born around 1450 in the southern Netherlands, Isaac's compositions spanned masses, motets, songs in multiple languages, and instrumental works, reflecting his cosmopolitan career. He served notable patrons such as Lorenzo de' Medici in Florence and Emperor Maximilian I, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscapes of Italy and Germany. Isaac's contemporaries, including the legendary Josquin des Prez, recognized his genius, and his influence echoed through generations, inspiring composers like Bach and Brahms. His prolific output and innovative use of parody masses, often incorporating unusual themes, cement his status as one of the most significant composers of his time. Isaac's music, with its conservative harmonic idiom and intricate imitative polyphony, offers a rich and rewarding journey through the sonic world of the High Renaissance.
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Heinrich Isaac
