Dumont: Grands Motets

Immerse yourself in the rich, sacred music of the French Baroque with "Dumont: Grands Motets," a captivating album featuring the works of Henri Dumont. Released in 1981 under the Harmonia Mundi label, this collection showcases Dumont's masterful compositions for the Chapelle du Roy, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and intricacy of 17th-century French church music.

The album spans a concise yet impactful 50 minutes, presenting a selection of motets and the Magnificat, performed with exquisite precision by La Chapelle Royale under the direction of Philippe Herreweghe. Dumont's "Grands Motets" are notable for their five-part writing, a characteristic feature of the French grand motet that endured well into the 18th century. The instrumentation, including two violins and two violas, adds a distinctive texture to these sacred works.

Highlights include the powerful "Memorare," the dialogic "Dialogus de anima," and the triumphant "Magnificat," each piece demonstrating Dumont's skill in blending vocal and instrumental elements to create a profound spiritual experience. This album is a testament to Dumont's contributions to the grand motet genre, predating the works of later composers like Lully and Delalande.

"Dumont: Grands Motets" is a must-listen for enthusiasts of early music and Baroque choral works, offering a serene and uplifting journey through the sacred repertoire of a lesser-known but highly influential composer.