Lassus: St. Matthew Passion

Album Description

Experience the profound and moving "St. Matthew Passion" by the renowned Renaissance composer Orlande de Lassus. This captivating album, released in 2018, offers a unique blend of medieval, choral, and Gregorian chant genres, providing a rich and immersive listening experience. Spanning over an hour and fifteen minutes, this masterful work is a testament to Lassus's enduring influence and musical genius.

The album features the complete "Passio Domini nostri Jesu Christi secundum Matthaeum," a setting of the Passion of Christ according to the Gospel of Matthew. Each track is meticulously crafted, showcasing Lassus's mastery of polyphony and his deep understanding of the dramatic power of contrasting textures and voices. The album also includes the beautiful motet "Lagrime di San Pietro," adding an extra layer of depth and beauty to the collection.

Recorded by the esteemed ensemble Musica Ficta under the direction of Bo Holten, this album benefits from their unerring performances and meticulous attention to detail. The Latin text is brought to life with clarity and passion, making this recording a standout in the choral repertoire.

Orlande de Lassus, one of the most celebrated musicians of his time, composed this work in a style that bridges the gap between the near-plainsong of early Renaissance settings and the more complex polyphony that would come to define the Baroque era. His influence can still be felt today, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music collection.

Whether you are a seasoned fan of Renaissance music or a newcomer to the genre, "St. Matthew Passion" by Orlande de Lassus is sure to captivate and inspire. The album's stunning performances and historical significance make it a timeless treasure that will be cherished by all who appreciate the beauty of choral music.

9 feb 2018

2018 Naxos

About Orlande de Lassus

Orlande de Lassus, also known as Orlando di Lasso, was a towering figure of the late Renaissance, renowned for his prolific and diverse musical output. Born around 1532 in Mons, Belgium, Lassus's extraordinary vocal talents led him on a journey across Europe, serving various courts in Italy, France, and Germany. His compositions, numbering over 2,000, span nearly every vocal genre of his time, from sacred motets and Masses to secular chansons, demonstrating his unparalleled versatility and mastery of the polyphonic style. Lassus's music is celebrated for its deep connection to text, making it a profound and emotional experience for listeners. Often hailed as "The divine Orlando," his influence was immense, and his works were published more frequently than any other composer of his era. Lassus's legacy endures as one of the most celebrated and influential musicians of the Renaissance, standing alongside contemporaries like Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina and Tomás Luis de Victoria.