The Sacred Flame

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of European sacred choral music with "The Sacred Flame," a stunning collection of motets from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, masterfully performed by The Cambridge Singers under the direction of John Rutter. This album, released in 2009, is a testament to the enduring beauty and spiritual depth of choral music from this golden age.

Spanning nearly an hour and a half, "The Sacred Flame" features 20 exquisite tracks, each a gem from the sacred choral repertoire. The album includes works by some of the most revered composers of the era, such as Bach, Buxtehude, Gabrieli, Gesualdo, Monteverdi, Palestrina, Schütz, and Sweelinck. Notable pieces include Palestrina's "Sicut cervus" and "Exsultate Deo," Gabrieli's "Jubilate Deo," Lassus' "Timor et tremor," and Josquin's "Ave Maria," all of which are beautifully rendered by The Cambridge Singers.

The Cambridge Singers, renowned for their sensuous and virtuosic performances, are joined by the acclaimed early music ensemble La Nuova Musica. Together, they bring a level of precision and passion to these timeless works that will captivate any enthusiast of choral music. The album's meticulous production and the singers' impeccable technique ensure that every note resonates with clarity and emotion.

"The Sacred Flame" is not just an album; it's a journey through the sacred music of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Whether you're a seasoned fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a profound and enriching listening experience. The album's diverse selection of motets showcases the incredible range and depth of sacred choral music from this era, making it a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.

The Cambridge Singers, founded in 1981 by renowned composer and conductor John Rutter, are a distinguished English mixed-voice chamber choir known for their exceptional recordings. Originally comprising former members of the Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, where Rutter served as Director of Music, the group was established with a primary focus on creating high-quality recordings under their own label, Collegium Records. With over fifty recordings to their credit, The Cambridge Singers have become synonymous with exquisite choral performances, spanning both sacred and secular repertoire from various eras. Their discography showcases a rich tapestry of compositions, featuring works by esteemed composers such as Stanford, Britten, and Rutter himself. The choir's members, predominantly professional ensemble singers, bring a wealth of experience and talent to their recordings, ensuring a polished and refined sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.