Immerse yourself in the sacred and transcendent world of Renaissance polyphony with John Taverner's "Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas • Mater Christi • Dum transisset Sabbatum • O Wilhelme." This exquisite choral album, released in 2007 under AVIE Records, showcases the masterful compositions of John Taverner, a pivotal figure in English musical history. The album features a stunning array of choral works, including the iconic "Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas," a mass that exemplifies Taverner's unique blend of modal harmony and intricate vocal textures.
The album opens with the resplendent "Cantus firmus - Gloria tibi Trinitas," setting the stage for the intricate polyphony that follows. The "Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas" itself is a tour de force, with each movement—from the jubilant "Gloria" to the contemplative "Agnus Dei"—demonstrating Taverner's profound understanding of vocal writing and sacred text. The album also includes the devotional "Mater Christi," the reflective "Dum transisset Sabbatum," and the hauntingly beautiful "O Wilhelme," a piece dedicated to St. William of York.
Recorded at the acoustically superb Chapel of Merton College, Oxford, the album benefits from the exquisite performances of the Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, under the direction of Stephen Darlington. The choir's precision and expressive depth bring Taverner's compositions to life, highlighting the composer's innovative use of harmony and rhythm.
With a total duration of just over an hour, this album is a profound exploration of Renaissance choral music, offering a rich and immersive listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, "Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas • Mater Christi • Dum transisset Sabbatum • O Wilhelme" promises a deeply rewarding journey into the sacred and sublime.
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