Peter Philips: Cantiones sacrae octonis vocibus – 8-Part Motets - Peter Philips

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and resplendent world of Peter Philips' "Cantiones sacrae octonis vocibus – 8-Part Motets," a stunning collection of 30 motets originally published in 1613. This album, released in 2013 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the original publication, features a selection of eight of these exquisite pieces, performed with unparalleled beauty by the Choir of Royal Holloway, accompanied by the English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble.

Peter Philips, a renowned composer of the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods, showcases his mastery of polyphony in these eight-part motets. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, offering a rich and immersive experience of sacred choral music. The motets, dedicated to St. Peter, are sung with a stately grandeur enhanced by the cornetts and sackbuts, adding a majestic depth to the performances.

The album features a diverse range of motets, including "Benedictus Deus noster," "O quam suavis est a 8 (II)," and "Salve Regina," each demonstrating Philips' skill in crafting intricate and harmonious vocal compositions. The double-choir arrangements add a layer of complexity and richness, making this album a standout in the realm of sacred choral music.

Recorded by Hyperion, a label known for its high-quality classical recordings, this album is a testament to the enduring beauty of Philips' compositions. Whether you are a fan of Renaissance polyphony or simply appreciate exquisite choral music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

24 februari 2013

℗ 2013 Hyperion Records Limited

About Peter Philips

Peter Philips, born in 1560, was a remarkable English composer, organist, and Catholic priest whose life and work were deeply influenced by religious persecution. Exiled to Flanders in the Spanish Netherlands due to his faith, Philips became one of the most celebrated keyboard virtuosos of his era. His repertoire includes transcriptions and arrangements of Italian motets and madrigals by renowned composers such as Lassus, Palestrina, and Giulio Caccini, adapted for his instruments. Some of his keyboard compositions are preserved in the esteemed Fitzwilliam Virginal Book. Philips' sacred choral works further showcase his musical genius, making him a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in the Elizabethan musical landscape. Despite his significant contributions, Philips remains one of the few first-rate composers of his time who is largely unknown, even among specialists, adding an air of mystery to his enduring legacy.