Missa Maria zart

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Renaissance music with Jacob Obrecht's "Missa Maria zart," a monumental work that stands as one of the longest extant Masses of its era. Released on March 20, 2023, by Cappella Pratensis, this album offers a profound exploration of medieval choral music, spanning a full hour and four minutes. Obrecht, a 15th-century Flemish composer, crafted this extraordinary piece, which has been recorded several times but remains a hidden gem in the classical music repertoire.

The album features a single, expansive track list that includes the full Missa Maria zart, divided into its traditional sections such as the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei. The recording is presented in stunning Super Audio CD (SACD) format, ensuring a high-fidelity listening experience that captures the intricate polyphony and harmonic richness of Obrecht's composition. The Latin text, sung with precision and devotion by the Cappella Pratensis ensemble under the direction of Stratton Bull, brings a sense of timelessness and spiritual depth to the performance.

"Missa Maria zart" is not just an album but a testament to the enduring power of Renaissance music. Jacob Obrecht's masterpiece, with its intricate counterpoint and soaring melodies, offers a glimpse into the sacred and artistic sensibilities of a bygone era. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of classical music or a curious newcomer, this recording promises a captivating journey through one of the most significant works of the Renaissance period.

20 maart 2023

2023 Cappella Pratensis

About Jacob Obrecht

Jacob Obrecht, born in Ghent around 1457, was a towering figure in the world of Renaissance music, renowned for his masses, motets, and songs. Often hailed as the most celebrated composer of masses in late 15th-century Europe, his fame only waned after his death with the rise of Josquin des Prez. Obrecht's compositions are a masterclass in rich sonorities and sensuous lines, exuding a powerful sense of direction and architectural brilliance. His style seamlessly blended modern and archaic elements, making him one of the most influential and versatile musicians of his time. Born the son of a town trumpeter, Obrecht's career took him through various choirmaster posts in Northern France and the Low Countries, culminating in his tragic death from the plague in Ferrara in 1505. His legacy endures through his monumental works, which continue to captivate audiences with their timeless beauty and innovation.