Lasso: Christmas Motets

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Renaissance polyphony with "Lasso: Christmas Motets" by Orlande de Lassus. This captivating album, released in 2010, offers a rich tapestry of choral works that showcase the composer's mastery of the motet form. With a running time of just over an hour, this collection features 22 tracks that blend the sacred and the festive, making it an ideal accompaniment to the holiday season or a delightful exploration of medieval choral music any time of the year.

Conducted by Manfred Cordes and performed by the renowned Bremen Weser-Renaissance ensemble, this album brings together a mix of well-known and lesser-heard works by Lassus. The tracklist includes a variety of motets, such as the lively "Omnes de Saba venient" and the contemplative "Prophetiae Sibyllarum: Dum meditor," as well as the familiar carol "Mirabile mysterium." The album also features selections from Lassus' "Sacrae cantiones" and "Selectiorum aliquot cantionum sacrarum," providing a comprehensive overview of his choral output.

The album's genres span medieval, choral, and Gregorian chant, reflecting the diverse influences that shaped Lassus' compositional style. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance music or a newcomer eager to explore this rich musical heritage, "Lasso: Christmas Motets" offers a rewarding listening experience. The album's high-quality recording and meticulous performances bring the beauty and complexity of Lassus' music to life, making it a valuable addition to any classical music collection.