Immerse yourself in the solemn and resonant world of 17th-century funeral music with Howard Arman's meticulously curated album, "Schütz, Praetorius, Schein & Demantius: 17th-Century Funeral Music." This collection, released in 1994 under the Berlin Classics label, is a profound exploration of the requiem and choral genres, spanning a rich hour of deeply moving compositions.
The album features the esteemed Schutz-Akademie, conducted by Howard Arman, delivering a powerful performance that captures the essence of Baroque funeral music. The tracklist includes iconic works such as "Musikalische Exequien" by Heinrich Schütz, a trio of pieces that form a German funeral mass, and contributions from Michael Praetorius, Johann Hermann Schein, and Gregor Aichinger, among others. Each piece is a testament to the intricate and emotive choral traditions of the era.
Notably, the album includes the hauntingly beautiful "Threnus - Ich will schweigen" and the uplifting "Mit Fried und Freud ich fahr dahin," showcasing the diverse range of emotions and spiritual depth embedded in these compositions. The Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, under the direction of Timothy Brown, adds a layer of ethereal beauty with their contributions, particularly in pieces like "Hört auf mit Weinen und Klagen."
The Baroque Brass of London complements the choral works with their majestic and somber renditions, enhancing the overall atmosphere of reverence and reflection. This album is a must-listen for enthusiasts of early music, offering a glimpse into the sacred and ceremonial music of the Baroque period. Howard Arman's direction ensures a performance that is both historically informed and deeply resonant, making this a standout release in the realm of choral and requiem music.
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