Pierre de la rue: Missa "l'homme armé", Requiem

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and hauntingly beautiful world of Pierre de la Rue with his "Missa 'l'Homme armé' and Requiem." Released on July 31, 2007, this choral masterpiece is a testament to the composer's extraordinary talent and the enduring power of medieval music. The album, spanning 48 minutes, is a profound exploration of the requiem and mass genres, showcasing de la Rue's intricate compositions and the ethereal harmonies of the choral performances.

The album is divided into two main sections: the "Missa 'l'Homme armé'" and the "Requiem." The former is a polyphonic setting of the Ordinary of the Mass, based on the popular Renaissance melody "L'Homme armé." This section includes the traditional components of the mass: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei. The latter part of the album is a moving and solemn requiem, featuring the Introitus, Kyrie, Psalmus, Offertorium, Sanctus, Agnus Dei, and Communio.

Pierre de la Rue, a Franco-Flemish composer of the Renaissance period, is renowned for his contributions to sacred music. His works are characterized by their complexity, emotional depth, and technical brilliance. This album, recorded by harmonia mundi, offers a rare opportunity to experience de la Rue's music in its entirety, providing a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic sensibilities of the medieval era.

The choral performances on this album are nothing short of breathtaking. The singers' voices blend seamlessly, creating a rich and resonant sound that fills the listener with a sense of awe and reverence. The album is a must-listen for anyone interested in medieval music, choral performances, or the works of Pierre de la Rue. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado of early music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire you.

31 juli 2007

2006 harmonia mundi s.a.

About Pierre de la Rue

Pierre de la Rue, born around 1460, was a renowned Franco-Flemish composer and singer of the Renaissance, celebrated for his significant contributions to the polyphonic style that flourished in the Netherlands around 1500. A contemporary of the legendary Josquin des Prez, de la Rue's music was highly prized at the Habsburg-Burgundian court, where he served as the pre-eminent composer under Duke Philip 'the Fair' of Burgundy. His compositions, which include the influential 'Missa pro defunctis' — one of the earliest polyphonic settings of the requiem — showcase his mastery of choral and sacred music. De la Rue's work is a testament to the rich musical heritage of the late fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries, making him a pivotal figure in the history of Renaissance music.