John Taverner - Missa Corona spinea - Dum transisset Sabbatum 1 and 2 - John Taverner

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the resplendent choral masterpieces of John Taverner with this exquisite album, featuring his renowned "Missa Corona spinea" and both settings of "Dum transisset Sabbatum." This captivating collection, performed by the esteemed Tallis Scholars under the direction of Peter Phillips, showcases Taverner's extraordinary compositional prowess and his unique contribution to the Renaissance polyphonic tradition.

The "Missa Corona spinea," a treble concerto, is a tour de force of vocal virtuosity, brimming with stunning sonorities that exemplify the transcendent power of sacred music. Each movement of the mass, from the jubilant "Gloria" to the serene "Agnus Dei," is a testament to Taverner's ability to evoke profound spiritual depth through his intricate and expressive polyphony.

Complementing the mass are Taverner's two settings of "Dum transisset Sabbatum," a responsory for Matins on Easter Sunday. These pieces, with their intricate vocal interplay and radiant harmonies, provide a fitting conclusion to this album, which is a celebration of the human voice and the divine inspiration that guides it.

Recorded with impeccable clarity and warmth, this album offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the timeless beauty of John Taverner's choral works. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance polyphony or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a deeply enriching and enjoyable listening experience.

1 januari 2015

2018 Gimell

2015 Gimell

About John Taverner

John Taverner, born around 1490 in Lincolnshire, was one of the most influential English composers of the early 16th century. His life and work spanned a period of significant religious and political upheaval, which deeply influenced his compositions. Taverner's music is renowned for its contemplative stillness and artful simplicity, a stark contrast to the extravagant styles of his contemporaries. He served as the first organist and master of the choristers at Christ Church, Oxford, appointed by Cardinal Wolsey, and his sacred works, including the iconic "Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas" and "The Western Wynde Mass," are celebrated for their profound spiritual depth and technical mastery. Taverner's contributions to the mass and votive antiphon are varied and distinguished, making him a pivotal figure in the transition of English sacred music through the Reformation. His legacy endures as a testament to his enduring influence on choral music.