Philips: Motets & Madrigaux

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Renaissance polyphony with Peter Philips' "Motets & Madrigaux," a captivating collection released on October 16, 2008, by Ambronay Éditions. This album is a testament to Philips' mastery of the motet and madrigal forms, offering a unique blend of sacred and secular vocal music that showcases his distinctive style.

Peter Philips, an English composer who fled his homeland to maintain his Roman Catholic beliefs, found refuge in the Low Countries, where he composed many of his works. This album features a selection of motets from his 1612 collection, along with a handful of madrigals, all performed by the renowned ensemble Capella Mediterranea under the direction of Leonardo García Alarcón. The ensemble's virtuosic singing brings to life the intricate polyphony and expressive harmonies that characterize Philips' music.

The album spans a variety of themes and moods, from the solemn and contemplative ("Alma redemptoris mater," "Salve Regina") to the lively and playful ("Non più guerra," "Voi volete ch'io muoia"). Each piece is a masterclass in Renaissance vocal writing, demonstrating Philips' skill in crafting intricate polyphonic textures and his sensitivity to the expressive potential of the human voice.

With a running time of just under an hour, "Motets & Madrigaux" is an ideal introduction to the music of Peter Philips, one of the most important English composers of the late Renaissance. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance polyphony or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and enchant. The album features 20 tracks, including "Non più guerra," "Il dolce mormorio," and "Amarilli (D'après Giulio Caccini)," among others. The album is a great way to experience the beauty and complexity of Renaissance vocal music.