Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Renaissance polyphony with Pierre de la Rue's "Missa 'Cum iocunditate' & Motets." Released in 1992 under the Warner Classics label, this album is a testament to the enduring beauty of medieval choral music, expertly performed by The Hilliard Ensemble under the direction of Paul Hillier. With a duration of one hour and two minutes, this collection offers a rich tapestry of sacred vocal works that showcase de la Rue's mastery of the motet and mass forms.
The album opens with the motet "Gaude virgo mater," a joyful celebration of the Virgin Mary, followed by the poignant "Vexilla Regis - Passio Domini." The centerpiece of the album is the complete "Missa 'Cum iocunditate'," a stunning example of de la Rue's contrapuntal skill and expressive range. Each movement of the mass, from the solemn "Kyrie" to the triumphant "Agnus Dei," is rendered with clarity and precision, highlighting the ensemble's impeccable blend and intonation.
In addition to the mass, the album features a selection of motets that span a range of moods and subjects, from the penitential "Delicta juventutis" to the devotional "O salutaris hostia" and "Ave Regina celorum." Throughout, de la Rue's music is marked by its melodic inventiveness, harmonic richness, and profound spirituality, making this album an essential addition to any lover of early music's collection.
The Hilliard Ensemble's performance is nothing short of breathtaking, with each singer's voice perfectly balanced and tuned to create a sound that is both intimate and expansive. Paul Hillier's direction ensures that the music's rhythmic vitality and expressive nuance are fully realized, resulting in a performance that is both historically informed and deeply moving.
"Missa 'Cum iocunditate' & Motets" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it is a window into the sacred world of the late Middle Ages, a time when music and spirituality were deeply intertwined. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Renaissance polyphony or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. So, sit back, relax, and let the enchanting voices of The Hilliard Ensemble transport you to a time of profound beauty and spiritual depth.
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