Immerse yourself in the sacred and sublime with "Sheppard: Church Music, Vol. 2," a captivating collection of works by the renowned English composer John Sheppard. Released in 1991 under the Hyperion label, this album is a testament to Sheppard's mastery of Renaissance church music, offering a serene and spiritually uplifting experience.
Performed by the acclaimed vocal ensemble The Sixteen, the album features a selection of Sheppard's most revered compositions, including the intricate and harmonically rich "Missa Cantate" and the hauntingly beautiful "Ave maris stella." The recording, made in September 1991 at St Jude-on-the-Hill in London, captures the ensemble's pristine vocals and meticulous attention to detail, providing a rich and immersive listening experience.
Spanning a duration of 55 minutes, the album is a journey through the sacred texts and melodies that defined the English Renaissance. Sheppard's works, characterized by their complex polyphony and profound emotional depth, are brought to life with exquisite clarity and precision. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a profound and enriching exploration of one of the most significant periods in Western musical history.
"Sheppard: Church Music, Vol. 2" is not just a collection of tracks but a carefully curated journey through the spiritual and artistic achievements of John Sheppard. It is a must-listen for anyone seeking to deepen their appreciation of Renaissance church music and the timeless beauty of Sheppard's compositions.