"Pro Pacem" is a profound and captivating exploration of medieval music, meticulously curated by the renowned La Capella Reial De Catalunya under the direction of Jordi Savall. Released in 2012 to commemorate the choir's 25th anniversary, this album is a testament to the ensemble's dedication to historical performance practice and their ability to bring centuries-old music to life with stunning clarity and authenticity.
Spanning over an hour and eighteen minutes, "Pro Pacem" features 23 tracks that traverse five centuries of vocal music, from the 15th century compositions of Gilles Binchois to traditional pieces from various cultures and time periods. The album showcases the choir's versatility and depth, with works in Latin, Hebrew, Arabic, and other languages, reflecting the rich tapestry of medieval musical heritage.
The album opens with "Da Pacem," a poignant plea for peace that sets the tone for the entire collection. Throughout the album, the choir's pristine vocals and Savall's expert direction shine, whether in the intricate polyphony of "Planctus: En to stavro pares tosa" or the haunting beauty of "Ave Maria (China)." The ensemble's commitment to historical accuracy is evident in their use of period instruments and performance techniques, providing an immersive and authentic listening experience.
"Pro Pacem" is not just a collection of medieval music; it is a celebration of the power of music to transcend time and culture, to heal, and to inspire. With its diverse repertoire and exceptional performances, this album is a true gem for anyone interested in medieval music, historical performance, or simply the beauty of the human voice. The album is released on the Alia Vox label and is available in Super Audio CD (SACD) format, ensuring the highest audio quality for discerning listeners.
(C) 2012 Alia Vox
Tracks
Da PacemGilles Binchois, Jordi Savall, Montserrat Figueras, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Hespèrion XXI
Oracles SibyllinsTraditional, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Taksim (Lire turque)Traditional, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Le Coran: Bismi Alah ar RahmanTraditional, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, M. S.Khalil, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Planctus: En to stavro pares tosaAnonymous, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Marc Mauillon, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Invocation HébraïqueTraditional, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Lior Elmaleh, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Codex Las Hulegas: Flavit AusterAnonymous, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Planctus: Pax ! In nomini Domini !Traditional, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Da Pacem (Version 2)Josquin des Prez, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
O Mater MundyTraditional, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Senhora del MundoAnonymous, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Da Pacem (Version 3)Hieronimus Parabosco, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Lawdes Deo à 5Christopher Tye, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
El Pan de l’aflición (Sépharade)Anonymous, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
O Domine Jesu ChristeFrancisco Guerrero, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Da Pacem à 5Orlande de Lassus, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Lachrimae Caravaggio: Deploratio IVJordi Savall, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Ferran Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Lachrimae Caravaggio: Planctus CaravaggioJordi Savall, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Ferran Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Ave Maria (China)Anonymous, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Ferran Savall, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
In Nomine in 7 PartsHenry Purcell, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Montserrat Figueras, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Da Pacem (Grégorien)Traditional, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Ferran Savall, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Da Pacem DomineArvo Pärt, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Ferran Savall, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI
Plainte "En Sarer" (Arménie)Anonymous, La Capella Reial De Catalunya, Georgi Minassyan, Ferran Savall, Haïg Sarikouyoumdjian, Jordi Savall, Hespèrion XXI