"Palestrina Revealed - Byrd, White, Mundy" is a captivating exploration of Renaissance polyphony, celebrating the 500th anniversary of the birth of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina. This album, released on January 10, 2025, by Harmonia Mundi, features the Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, under the direction of Graham Ross, delivering a program that includes several world premiere recordings of Palestrina's major sacred works.
The album spans a rich tapestry of compositions, with five pieces by Palestrina making their debut on record, alongside works by his English contemporaries William Byrd, Robert White, and William Mundy. This collection offers a unique opportunity to compare and contrast the stylistic nuances of these composers, all of whom were active during the late 16th century.
The album's duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes is filled with intricate vocal performances that showcase the choir's exceptional skill and the conductor's meticulous attention to detail. The Latin texts are accompanied by English translations, providing a deeper understanding of the sacred themes explored in these works. Recorded in the resonant acoustics of All Hallows' Church in Gospel Oak, London, the album benefits from a rich and immersive sound that brings these historic compositions to life.
"Palestrina Revealed - Byrd, White, Mundy" is not just a collection of beautiful choral works; it is a testament to the enduring power of Renaissance polyphony and a celebration of the composers who shaped this remarkable period in music history. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enlightening listening experience.
2025 harmonia mundi2025 harmonia mundi / Choir of Clare College, Cambridge
Tracks
Magnificat secundi toni a 5Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Emendemus in melius a 5William Byrd, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Emendemus in melius a 4: I. KyrieGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Emendemus in melius a 4: II. GloriaGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Emendemus in melius a 4: III. CredoGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Emendemus in melius a 4: IV. Sanctus - BenedictusGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Emendemus in melius a 4: V. Agnus Dei IGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Emendemus in melius a 4: VI. Agnus Dei II a 5Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Ad te levavi oculos meos a 6Robert White, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Ad te levavi oculos meos a 12Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Memor esto verbi tui a 6William Mundy, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Memor esto verbi tui a 5Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Memor esto verbi tui a 5: I. KyrieGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Memor esto verbi tui a 5: II. GloriaGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Memor esto verbi tui a 5: III. CredoGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Memor esto verbi tui a 5: IV. Sanctus - BenedictusGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
Missa Memor esto verbi tui a 5: V. Agnus DeiGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Graham Ross
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