La Rue: Missa De Feria & Missa Sancta Dei genitrix

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and intricate world of Renaissance polyphony with Pierre de la Rue's "Missa De Feria & Missa Sancta Dei genitrix." This exquisite album, released on May 1, 1998, under the Hyperion label, showcases the mastery of one of the most renowned composers of the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The album features two complete masses, "Missa De Feria" and "Missa Sancta Dei genitrix," along with several motets, all performed with stunning precision and reverence by Gothic Voices, conducted by the esteemed Christopher Page.

Recorded in the acoustically rich setting of Boxgrove Priory, Chichester, in September 1997, this album benefits from the exceptional production skills of Martin Compton and the engineering expertise of Philip Hobbs. The performances capture the essence of medieval choral music, transporting you to a time when such sacred compositions were an integral part of daily life.

Pierre de la Rue, a contemporary of Josquin des Prez, was known for his sophisticated use of polyphony and his ability to weave complex musical lines into a cohesive and harmonious whole. This album is a testament to his genius, offering a rich tapestry of sound that is both intellectually stimulating and spiritually uplifting. The album's duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes is filled with moments of profound beauty and musical innovation, making it a treasure for anyone interested in the rich heritage of medieval and Renaissance music.

1 mei 1998

℗ 1998 Hyperion Records Limited

About Pierre de la Rue

Pierre de la Rue, born around 1460, was a renowned Franco-Flemish composer and singer of the Renaissance, celebrated for his significant contributions to the polyphonic style that flourished in the Netherlands around 1500. A contemporary of the legendary Josquin des Prez, de la Rue's music was highly prized at the Habsburg-Burgundian court, where he served as the pre-eminent composer under Duke Philip 'the Fair' of Burgundy. His compositions, which include the influential 'Missa pro defunctis' — one of the earliest polyphonic settings of the requiem — showcase his mastery of choral and sacred music. De la Rue's work is a testament to the rich musical heritage of the late fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries, making him a pivotal figure in the history of Renaissance music.