Victoria: Responsories for Tenebrae

Experience the profound and stirring responsories for Tenebrae, masterfully performed by the renowned Westminster Cathedral Choir, under the direction of David Hill. This album, released on March 1, 2011, under the Past Classics label, offers a deeply spiritual journey through the sacred music of Tomás Luis de Victoria, a pivotal figure in the Renaissance polyphonic tradition.

The album features unaccompanied responsories for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday, providing a comprehensive exploration of Victoria's dramatic and intense settings for these solemn liturgical moments. The choir's precise and scholarly interpretation brings out the searing intensity and spiritual engagement of these works, making it a standout recording in the genre of Gregorian chant and choral music.

With a duration of 47 minutes, this album is a powerful and immersive experience, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with the sacred music of the Renaissance. The Westminster Cathedral Choir's rich and resonant sound, combined with Hill's meticulous direction, ensures a performance that is both historically informed and deeply moving. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the beauty and complexity of Victoria's responsories for Tenebrae.

The Westminster Cathedral Choir, renowned as one of the world's great choirs, invites you into a rich tapestry of sacred music. Based in the heart of London, this esteemed ensemble has been a cornerstone of choral excellence since its inception in 1901. Under the guidance of Master of Music Simon Johnson, the choir is celebrated for its daily liturgical singing at the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Most Precious Blood, the largest Roman Catholic church in England and Wales. Their repertoire spans Gregorian chant, choral masterpieces, and profound requiems, making them a staple on radio and television. The choir is composed of talented young boys from the Westminster Cathedral Choir School, who bring a purity and passion to their performances that captivates audiences worldwide.