Tye: 3 Masses

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Renaissance polyphony with Christopher Tye's "3 Masses," a captivating collection of three complete masses composed by this influential English Renaissance composer. This album, released in 1999, features the renowned Ely Cathedral Choir under the direction of Paul Trepte, delivering a powerful and resonant performance that honors Tye's masterful compositions.

The album showcases three distinct masses: the "Mass 'Western Wind'," the "Euge bone mass," and the "Peterhouse Mass." Each mass is a testament to Tye's skill in weaving intricate vocal lines and harmonies, creating a sonic landscape that is both complex and beautifully cohesive. The "Mass 'Western Wind'" is particularly notable for its use of the popular secular song "Western Wynd," a melody that was also employed by other prominent composers of the time, such as Taverner and Sheppard.

Recorded in the acoustically splendid Lady Chapel of Ely Cathedral, where Christopher Tye himself worked in the mid-16th century, this album benefits from an authentic and reverberant setting that enhances the choral performances. The choir's large and robust sound fills the space, providing a vivid sense of the music's original context and grandeur.

With a total duration of over an hour and twenty minutes, this double-disc set offers a comprehensive exploration of Tye's sacred choral works. The meticulous attention to detail in both the performances and the recording ensures that listeners can fully appreciate the intricacies and beauty of these historic compositions. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance music or a newcomer to the genre, "3 Masses" by Christopher Tye is a compelling and enriching listening experience.