Rubbra: Mass In Honour Of St Teresa Of Avila; Missa a3; 5 Motets; 5 Madrigals

Album Description

Edmund Rubbra's "Rubbra: Mass In Honour Of St Teresa Of Avila; Missa a3; 5 Motets; 5 Madrigals" is a profound exploration of sacred and secular choral music, showcasing the composer's mastery of both religious and literary themes. Released on January 1, 2000, by Decca, this album spans a rich tapestry of compositions that highlight Rubbra's unique voice and deep spiritual insight.

The album opens with Rubbra's "Mass In Honour Of St Teresa Of Avila," a deeply reverent work dedicated to the renowned saint. This is followed by the "Missa a3," a three-voice mass that demonstrates Rubbra's skill in crafting intricate, harmonically rich choral music. The "5 Motets, Op. 37" offer a series of reflective, contemplative pieces that delve into themes of eternity, faith, and divine worship.

Rubbra's secular compositions are equally compelling. The "5 Madrigals, Op. 51" and "2 Madrigals, Op. 52" draw on poetic texts, exploring themes of love, beauty, and the human condition with a lyrical elegance that is distinctly Rubbra's own. These works provide a beautiful contrast to the sacred pieces, showcasing the composer's versatility and depth.

The album also includes standalone pieces such as "Mary Mother, Op. 90," "Entrez y tous, Op. 93," and "Star of the Mystic East, Op. 81," each offering a unique perspective on Rubbra's musical and spiritual journey. With a duration of one hour and five minutes, this collection is a comprehensive introduction to Rubbra's choral works, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's library.

1 januari 2000

℗ 2000 ASV Ltd.

About Edmund Rubbra

Charles Edmund Rubbra, born in Northampton in 1901, was a distinguished British composer whose works spanned a wide range of genres, though he is perhaps best known for his eleven symphonies. Rubbra's music, which reached its zenith of popularity in the mid-20th century, is characterised by its dramatic intensity and improvisatory spirit. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Rubbra never embraced the dodecaphonic style, instead forging his own unique compositional path. His extensive catalogue includes notable works such as the Viola Concerto in A Major, Op. 75, and his Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor, Op. 85. Despite a decline in public recognition in recent decades, Rubbra's compositions continue to captivate those who seek out his music, offering a rich and emotive experience that stands the test of time.