Immerse yourself in the sacred and profound musical compositions of John Sheppard with the album "Media vita & Other Sacred Music." Released in 2017, this album commemorates what could be the 500th anniversary of Sheppard's birth and marks the 460th anniversary of his death. The album features the first-ever recording of Sheppard's masterpiece "Media vita," a haunting and deeply moving work that begins with the poignant words "In the midst of life."
Performed by the esteemed Westminster Cathedral Choir under the direction of Martin Baker, this collection showcases Sheppard's intricate and beautiful sacred music. The album includes a variety of pieces, such as the solemn "Media vita" and the joyous "Gaude, gaude, gaude Maria," as well as the complete "Missa Cantate," demonstrating Sheppard's mastery of both somber and celebratory liturgical music.
With a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, the album offers a comprehensive exploration of Sheppard's contributions to Renaissance sacred music. The meticulous performance by the Westminster Cathedral Choir brings out the depth and richness of Sheppard's compositions, making this album a significant addition to any classical music collection. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Renaissance polyphony or a newcomer to the genre, this album provides a captivating journey through the sacred works of John Sheppard.