Ockeghem: Missa L'Homme Arme / Josquin: Memor Esto Verbi Tui

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Renaissance music with this captivating album featuring the works of Johannes Ockeghem and Josquin Desprez. Released on March 2, 1998, under the Naxos label, this collection showcases the celestial voices of the Oxford Camerata, conducted by Jeremy Summerly, delivering a mesmerizing performance of sacred choral music.

The album opens with Ockeghem's Missa L'homme arme, a short mass based on the Burgundian song of the same name. This piece is a testament to Ockeghem's mastery of polyphony and his ability to create intricate, yet harmonious, vocal textures. The Missa is followed by two settings of the Marian antiphon "Alma Redemptoris Mater," one in Mode 5, demonstrating Ockeghem's versatility and compositional skill.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Josquin Desprez, a renowned French composer of the Renaissance. His motet "Memor esto verbi tui" (Remember your word to your servant) is a remarkable composition that appears to be a complaint to God but reveals a deeper, more complex narrative. This piece is a showcase of Josquin's ability to convey profound emotion and spirituality through his music.

The album spans a total of 56 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of these two composers' sacred works. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The Oxford Camerata's pristine vocals and Jeremy Summerly's expert conducting bring these timeless pieces to life, making this a truly unforgettable listening experience.