Monteverdi: Messa a quattro voci et salmi of 1650 Volume I

Immerse yourself in the sacred and sublime with Claudio Monteverdi's "Messa a quattro voci et salmi of 1650 Volume I," a masterful collection of choral works that showcase the composer's late style and profound spiritual depth. Released on April 1, 2016, this album is a testament to Monteverdi's enduring legacy in the classical music canon, featuring nine exquisite tracks that span a total of 71 minutes.

The album opens with the grand "Dixit Dominus (Primo) a 8," a powerful eight-voice setting of the psalm that sets the tone for the collection. Other highlights include the intricate "Confitebor tibi Domine (Secondo) a due voci" and the jubilant "Lauda Jerusalem a 3," each demonstrating Monteverdi's mastery of polyphony and expressive harmonies. The album also features the iconic "Magnificat," a luminous setting of the canticle that showcases the composer's ability to evoke profound reverence and joy.

Performed by the renowned vocal ensemble The Sixteen, under the direction of Harry Christophers, this recording is a testament to the ensemble's commitment to historical performance practice and their ability to bring Monteverdi's music to life with clarity and passion. The album is the first of two volumes dedicated to Monteverdi's final collection of sacred music, offering listeners a comprehensive exploration of the composer's late style and his enduring influence on the development of Western music.

Recorded in 2015 and released on the Coro label, "Messa a quattro voci et salmi of 1650 Volume I" is a stunning addition to any classical music collection, offering listeners a chance to experience the timeless beauty of Monteverdi's sacred music in all its glory. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.