The Angel's Voice

Album Description

"Experience the divine artistry of Francisco Guerrero, a renowned Spanish Renaissance composer, with this exquisite choral album, "The Angel's Voice." Released in 2011, this collection of sacred and secular vocal works showcases Guerrero's mastery of polyphony and his deep spiritual devotion. The album features performances by Ensemble La Sestina, a group dedicated to bringing Renaissance music to life with authenticity and passion.

Spanning a duration of one hour, "The Angel's Voice" offers a rich tapestry of sounds, from the serene beauty of motets like "Gabriel Archangelus" and "Virgo Prudentissima" to the lively energy of villanescas such as "Qué buen año" and "Es menester que se acierte." The album also includes selections from Guerrero's renowned "Missa L'homme armé à 4," demonstrating his skill in setting the popular French melody to sacred texts.

Guerrero's compositions, characterized by their intricate vocal interplay and expressive harmonies, transport listeners to the sacred spaces and spiritual fervor of 16th-century Spain. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Renaissance choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating journey into the world of Francisco Guerrero and the vibrant musical culture of his time. Recorded with meticulous attention to detail, "The Angel's Voice" is a testament to the enduring power of Guerrero's music and the skill of Ensemble La Sestina in bringing it to life. The album was released by Deutsche Harmonia Mundi and is available on CD."

21 februari 2011

(P) 2011 Sony Music Entertainment Germany GmbH

About Francisco Guerrero

Francisco Guerrero (1528-1599) was a renowned Spanish composer of the Renaissance, celebrated for his sacred and secular choral works. Born in Seville, Guerrero's musical journey began under the tutelage of his elder brother Pedro and the esteemed composer Cristóbal de Morales. His career flourished as he held prestigious positions, including chapelmaster at Jaén Cathedral and later at Seville Cathedral, one of Spain's most significant musical institutions. Guerrero's compositions, which include masses, motets, Passions, and songs, reflect his extensive travels, including pilgrimages to the Holy Land and Italy. His music is characterized by its rich polyphony and emotional depth, making him one of the leading composers of the 16th century. Despite being somewhat overshadowed by his contemporary Tomás Luis de Victoria, Guerrero's contributions to Renaissance music are invaluable, offering a unique blend of Spanish and European influences.