John Taverner: "Western Wynde" Mass / The Sixteen

1. O Splendor Gloriae, motet for 5 voices
Composed by John Taverner
Conducted by Harry Christophers

2. Te Deum Laudamus . . . Te Aeternem Patrem, motet for 5 voices
Composed by John Taverner
Conducted by Harry Christophers

3. Alleluia, Veni Electa Mea, motet for 4 voices
Composed by John Taverner
Conducted by Harry Christophers

4. Western Wynde Mass for 4 voices The Western Wynde
Composed by John Taverner
Conducted by Harry Christophers

Product Description

Amazon.com
The "Three T's" of 16th-century England were Tallis, Tye, and Taverner. Of these, Taverner was the oldest, and his music reflects the ongoing transition from the elaborate manner of late-medieval style toward the refinements of the High Renaissance. Taverner's position as choirmaster at Cardinal College while still in his 30s testifies to his considerable reputation with both court and church. The Western Wynde mass--which gets its name from the secular tune on which it is based--is Taverner's most famous in the genre, and its popularity owes much to its melodic beauty. This disc also contains three other works, including the antiphon O splendor gloriae, in which Taverner's masterful writing for high treble truly is splendid and glorious. --David Vernier

Tracks:

Ave Maria
Ave Maria, Mater Dei
Magnificat
Stabat Virgo Maria
Maria, Quid Ploras
The Angel Cried Out
Regina Caeli Laetare
Alma Redemptoris Mater
Ave Maris Stella
O Thou Joy Of All The Sorrowful
Ave Regina Caelorum A 8
Ave Maria A 4
Salve Regina A 5

Amazon.com

In the wake of its previous, Grammy-winning disc of contemporary madrigals (Colors of Love), the all-male a cappella ensemble that calls itself Chanticleer--in homage to Chaucer's Canterbury Tales --comes home to roost in this theme album of early music. After all, this is the territory that Chanticleer first staked out when the group banded together in 1978, and the return is most welcome. Magnificat offers manifold rewards, from the sensitive, imaginative culling of its program to the warmth and lithe interweaving of vocal layers in its execution (vividly recorded in splendid 20/24-bit process at the Skywalker Ranch)--not to mention the capsule music history that it traces. Like depictions of the Annunciation in medieval and Renaissance paintings, musical settings of texts that are centered on Mary abound during this period. Chanticleer's anthology includes familiar gems (the hymn "Ave Maris Stella"), but the group is delightfully unpredictable in many of its choices: examples of the polychoral sacred music of Russian Vasily Titov, contrafactum reworkings of two Monteverdi madrigals to Marian texts, and a full Magnificat setting by Tudor master John Taverner. The latter gives a microcosm of Chanticleer's vocal versatility, presenting stern, unadorned plainsong side-by-side with melodies that blossom like tendrils. Or listen to the ensemble's dynamic control, from the exultant climaxes of the Titov choral concerto to the achingly beautiful, held diminuendo on the second Monteverdi piece. Most impressive of all is that Chanticleer manages to avoid the bane of a cappella groups--a bland, homogenized sameness of sound--through its subtle variations in color and thoughtful musicality. A real treasure. --Thomas May

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful with excellent sound engineering and singing.......2007-06-27

I got what I wanted ---some absolutely beautiful compositions with exquiste voices.
Should be a grammy nominee

Beautiful performances and some nice surprises.......2005-06-17

This is a nice anthology of Renaissance music encompassing key composers of both the Prima and Seconda Prattica, including one or two less known names. The uniting theme is that of they are all in praise of the Virgin Mary. Most of these works are old war horses such as the Josquin Ave Maria which is beautifully performed. Their tempo for the Josquin is similar to that of the spacious approach of the Hilliard Ensemble, and unless you like this music performed at breakneck speed you will likely find this performance perfectly satisfying. If you are interested in an anthology of Renaissance music then this is a great choice, however for those of us with a strong interest in music of this period what really makes this essential listening is the two extraordinary pieces by Vasily Titov.

Titov composed at the time of Tsar Peter the Great's modernisation drive in Russia. He brought in composers from the West and Titov's music represents a marriage of the Italian compositional styles of the Seconda Prattica with the traditions of the Russian Orthodox Church. Like the grand architecture of St Petersburgs, and the Hermitage this is an fascinating mixture of Western influences with distinctly Russian ones. The twelve part polychoral writings have some of the dark solemnity of Russian Orthodox music while clearly being heavily influenced by the likes of Monteverdi, Gabrielli, Lassus and Palestrina. Perhaps a more authentically Russian approach to this music would have given far more prominence to the basses, but this still has trumendous impact. It makes it strange that there is so much interest in composers such as Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, Moussorsky, Shostakovich and the like but the Early Music movement have yet to catch up with Eastern Europe - Titov is very easily their equal and I would welcome more substantial recordings devoted to exploring this neglected composer.

This is a great recording recommended both to a general audience as well as to lovers of Renaissance music alike. The recorded sound is natural and full bodied. You can pick out individual voices in the chorus without them being drowned into an amorphous porridge of sound - a sign of a good recording. Still, I have heard wider sound staging and a wider dynamic range, so for all its virtues this is almost - but not quite - audiophile quality. Clearly a SACD format DSD recording would have been preferable.

Heavenly.......2003-01-04

This is one of my first two DVD-audio discs. Some tracks are recorded from the audience perspective, with the choir across the front and cathedral ambience all around, and those are beautiful, but I gotta say I love the, "choir-around the room" recordings a little more. Track 3 in particular has the choir "doubled" with parts recorded seperately with the choir at the rear of the cathedral, a then they moved 'em all down front, and stuck the tracks together through the magic of digital editing. I don't have a DVD-audio player yet so I'm just listening to the compressed Dolby 5.1 tracks. Can't imagine it sounding any better, though. Get this disc. Seriously, do it so you can go to heaven!

Marvelous sound.......2002-03-08

This recording wraps you up in a gorgeous sonority, and I'm only listening in stereo. I can't wait to hear it when I fill out my speaker ensemble.

Gorgeous choral voices surrounding you.......2002-02-03

I hesitated to buy this disc until a friend told me he knew one of the members of Chanticleer; then again I also had nothing like it in my collection. The sound is rich and resonant. You should know it is recorded realistically, in a variety of soundfields, i.e. sometimes there is a processional from front to rear, sometimes choruses on upper left/right, or from all around you, depending on the material. If that sounds disconcerting be assured it isn't. This is a beautiful and soothing disc with a nice variety to it, and the sound is wonderful.

Average customer rating:

Choral work at it's finest.
Love it
Light and shadows
Cambridge Singers = Quality
American Gramaphone, please reissue this title.

Brother Sun, Sister Moon
Gregorian Chant , William Byrd , John Taverner , Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina , Samuel Scheidt , John Sheppard , Maurice Durufle , Robert White , Cambridge Singers , Gerald Finley , and John Rutter
Manufacturer: American Gramaphone
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Brother Sun, Sister Moon
Stillness And Sweet Harmony
Hail, Gladdening Light: Music of the English Church
Faire is the Heaven: Music of the English Church
Francis of Assisi

ASIN: B0000005MF
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Music Of The Morning Rite: a. Alleluia - b. Haec Dies
Music Of The Morning Rite: Easter Sequence
Dum Transisset Sabbatum
Sanctus
Exsultate Deo
a. Easter Acclamations b. Surrexit Christus Hodie
Music Of The Evening Rite: Before The Ending Of The Day
Music Of The Evening Rite: In Pace
Music Of The Evening Rite: Into Thy Hands, O Lord
Music Of The Evening Rite: Ubi Caritas
Music Of The Evening Rite: Keep Me As The Apple Of An Eye And Nunc Dimittisa
Music Of The Evening Rite: O Christ, Who Art The Light And Day
Music Of The Evening Rite: a. We Will Lay Us Down In Peace b. Libera Nos, Salva Nos

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A brief glance at the packaging for this recording might make you think New Age, and indeed this label normally offers recordings in that vein. The disc's cover tells nothing about the music inside--all we see are the ruins of an ancient abbey, the moon in the sky on the front, the sun on the back. But wait. If you get far enough to listen to the recording, you'll find one of the most beautiful and beautifully programmed choral recordings in the catalog. The compositions, organized into the categories "Music of the Morning Rite" and "Music of the Evening Rite," are mostly from 16th- century composers--Byrd, Taverner, Sheppard, White--with a few Gregorian chants and a gorgeous rendition of the 20th-century motet by Duruflé, "Ubi caritas." Conductor/choral music legend John Rutter has assembled a program that's both uplifting and restful; the performance is faultless. One could only complain about the short (39 and a half minutes) playing time. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Choral work at it's finest........2007-06-03

I really enjoyed this work. I was first introduced to this title through American Gramophone's website and was also my first introduction in the works of John Rutter and the Cambridge Singers. You do not have be religious to enjoy this work. I find the music uplifting and very sublime. I have listened to it many times, and I find that my favorite period to play it is in the morning hours. .

I have since purchased many other Rutter titles including "Images of Christ", and more recently "Lighten our Darkness"

Love it.......2007-05-02

13 years ago, I had the tape of brother sun, sister moon and as a teenager and I would play it every night as I slept, I loved it. I dont know what happened to it and I have ever sence been looking for it, and I just baught the CD and am so excited.

Light and shadows.......2003-07-29

Recorded in the Great Hall of University College School, London, the Cambridge Singers under the direction of John Rutter produced a true masterpiece in 'Brother Sun, Sister Moon' in 1988. The title derives from a famous prayer by St. Francis of Assisi, and is inspired by liturgical music from (or derivative of) the Middle Ages and Renaissance polyphony and Gregorian chant. The music is meditative, uplifting, and elegant in simplicity and stunning vocal quality.

--Brother Sun--
The first half of the disc is largely composed of pieces from the liturgical Morning Prayer cycle, concentrating on texts from Easter, the most important of Christian days. From the Alleluia to the Acclamations and Surrexit Christus Hodie (Christ is risen today), the flow from Gregorian Chant to compositions by Byrd, Taverner and Palestrina (giants of this type of music) in increasing energy and glory, as befits both a Morning service (time to wake up!) as well as a celebration of the resurrection of Christ. Perhaps of particular note here is the cantoring of bass Gerald Finley in the Easter Acclamations.

--Sister Moon--
The second half of the disc concentrates on music of the evening; in particular, the Compline service, a service of unwinding and sombre meditation with which monastic communities conclude their days of work and worship. Many churches have reincorporated Compline into a regular cycle of services; some have even done so as a result of exposure to this recording. The music here is softer and less energetic than that of Morning prayer. This includes music from Whyte and Sheppard (also masters of the Medieval-to-Renaissance liturgical polyphony) as well as a brilliant motet by twentieth century composer Duruflé for the Ubi Caritas.

--Liner Notes--
The notes for this recording include the titles and words, in both Latin and English, for each of the pieces recorded here. It has an excerpt from a prayer by St. Francis, and a basic introduction to the music relating it historically and liturgically. One thing conspicuously missing is any biographical information about John Rutter, or any descriptive information about the Cambridge Singers apart from the basic listing of singers.

--John Rutter--
Rutter was born in London and educated at Clare College, Cambridge. This was where his career as a composer, arranger and conductor began. His early work was with groups at King's College Chapel at Cambridge as well as the Bath Choir and Philharmonic Orchestra. He has worked for the BBC providing music for educational series such as 'The Archaeology of the Bible Lands', until in 1979 he began forming the Cambridge Singers, and has continued a remarkable career of performance and recording as their director ever since.

--The Cambridge Singers--
The Cambridge Singers are a mixed choir of voices, many of whom were members of choir of Rutter's college, Clare College, Cambridge. While they specialise in English and Latin liturgical pieces, they have a wide range of recordings that span from modern compositions (including a remarkable requiem by Rutter) to English folk songs of the Middle Ages. For this particular recording, the choir consisted of eleven sopranos, six altos, six tenors, and six basses.

Cambridge Singers = Quality.......2002-05-23

I do love this cd, but tend to play certain tracks as my first love is chant. I play the Victimae Paschali Laudes in the car and sing along - it is so very beautiful that this rendition of this Easter Chant is worth purchasing this cd alone. I love that one track so much, my only criticism of the cd is that I wish they'd centered the entire cd on chant - and I hope they will do one like that in the future because the quality of the voices is stunning.

American Gramaphone, please reissue this title........2000-03-30

I originally obtained this CD through Minnesota Public Radio. The first time I listened to the Ubi Caritus, I was moved to tears. The CD became my favorite to play at Christmas and other times. I gave the CD to a friend who has moved to Oregon, deeply regret that it is no longer in production.

Tracks:

Pavin Of Albarri
Gallyard
In Nomine A 5
In Nomine III A 5
Desperada
Gallyard
Allemande
Browning My Dear
In Nomine V A 5
Ronda
La Represa
(Gallyard)
In Nomine II A 5
In Nomine III A 5
Allemana D'Amor
(Dance)
Quemadmodum A 6
Di Sei Soprani
Pavana
Brandeberges
La Represa
In Nomine IV A 6
O Mater Mundi A 5
Pavana
Gallyard
(Dance)
In Nomine IV A 7
The Song Called Trumpets A 6
In Nomine V A 7

Amazon.com

It's always a treat to experience the best of something: in this case, a performance of 16th-century music. Of course, the form and makeup of the viol consort, which includes various sizes of viols, often joined by other strings such as lute, itself is an instrumental configuration as close to perfection as any ensemble can be. This, accompanied by a style of writing that fully exploits the complementary timbres and the abilities of each instrument to delineate intricate polyphonic passages as well as to deliver chordal harmonies with uniquely rich resonance, makes for some of the most listenable music ever invented. Jordi Savall and his Hesperion XX are simply the world's best at this sort of music, and on this program they just flawlessly go about their business, bringing us more than two dozen delightful, dancing pieces from several composers, including John Taverner, William Mundy, and Anonymous. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Transported to another age.......2001-01-23

Not that many years ago, my favourite classical DJ expressed the view that "original instruments" ensembles were a "passing fad". He was strong in his belief that early instruments, even those manufactured today on early models, couldn't provide the depth and range of music his critical ear required. The emergence of La Petite Band began the process of bending his rigid outlook. When Jordi Savall came into prominence, and in particular Savall's Hesperion XX, this commentator had become a staunch advocate. I followed right along with him.

This CD exemplifies the superb quality of music and sound production Savall and his team. It would be interesting to know just how deeply Savall gets into the production of his CDs, for they are uniformly excellent. This one takes us from Savall's Catalan to the courts of Elizabethan England. In presenting that time and place, Savall adds a special knowledge of how the music of that era was produced. You almost automatically feel yourself transported to an English manor house or palace to join the other courtiers in listening to these delightful renditions. It's important to remember that this was the primary domestic entertainment of the day. We forget how sensitive the hearing of the listeners of that day must have been to nuances we often miss in the sound competitive world we live in. They could, and did, focus on the sound and only the best was accepted. Or, indeed, even offered by composers.

Savall, as usual, has drawn it all together with finesse and ability. Watching him conduct is to see each note from every instrument drawn forth and assessed. It's almost as if the sound will not be released to the listener unless perfectly produced. But under his direction, that is exactly what is accomplished. Of all the CDs of Elizabethan instrumentals, this must be your first choice.

Exceptional!.......2001-01-22

This a wonderful cd and a must have if you enjoy this genre of classical music. A wonderful recording and very soothing to listen too. I find the opening track quite catchy. Get it!

Beautiful Sounds.......1999-11-18

This is a complex sort of music played on period instruments giving the late twentieth Century listener a challenge. Once you get over the novelty of the tones you find an underlying treat of rhythm and melody.

This is well worth buying.

Superb- For Connoisseurs of the Genre.......1999-08-22

Hesperion XX performs this genre of music as well as anyone today, and this recording shows their reputation is deserved. This music is played with consummate professionalism on period instruments. However, this might not be the best recording for a first exposure to this repetoire. It lacks a brightness that modern instruments have and that contemporary audiences frequently expect. It contains music by composers that you almost have to be a musicologist or a musician active in 16th century music to know. But if you want to hear a splendid and- I think- authentic recording of Elizabethan Consort music, then look no further.

Average customer rating:

Great Music from Elizabeth's time

Elizabethan Songs and Consort Music
Peter Wendland , and Innocenzio Alerti
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Treasury of Elizabethan Music
Dowland: Consort Music
Byrd: Consort and Keyboard Music; Songs and Anthems
Elizabethan Consort Music
Shakespeare Songs

ASIN: B00003Q40F
Release Date: 2000-01-25

Tracks:

Fantasia
Ah, Alas You Salt Sea Gods
A Song Of Mr Robert Parsons
The Song Called Trumpets
O Death, Rock Me Asleep
In Nomine
In Nomine
Pour Down, You Pow'rs Divine
Ut Re Mi
Quis Me Statim
In Nomine No, 14 'Reporte'
Penelope That Longed
In Nomine No. 20 'Crye'
Send Forth Thy Sighs
Climb Not Too High
De La Court
Eliza, Her Name Gives Honour
Pavin Of Albarti
Gallyard
O Jove, From Stately Throne
A Solfing Song
Ah, Silly Poor Joas
In Nomine
Ye Sacred Muses

Customer Reviews:

Great Music from Elizabeth's time.......2002-09-13

This is an exceptional disc of music in height of popularity at
the court of Elizabeth I, and a bargan on the Naxos label(they
have several titles of early music available). The songs are all of high performance quality, and highly recomended to those interested in Elizabeth and her world. Several tracks for me stand out, including "Pour Down,You Pow'rs Divine", "Climb Not To High", and "Eliza, Her Name Gives Honour", this last composition written in celebration and honor of the queen, and beautifuly sung by Catherine King. The Rose Consort Of Viols are
also featured, the "grandfathers" of the modern bowed string
instruments were highly in vogue at the time for voice accompany or alone. For those with an interest in Elizabeth, or have seen the movie, this CD is highly recomended!

Shakespeare: Greatest Hits - Lute works from the Elizabethan Age (Dowland, Farnaby, Gervaise, Mudarra, etc) (2 CD Set)

Average customer rating:

Pleasant and relaxing

Shakespeare: Greatest Hits - Lute works from the Elizabethan Age (Dowland, Farnaby, Gervaise, Mudarra, etc) (2 CD Set)

Manufacturer: Intersound Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Panorama: Dances of the Renaissance
English Renaissance Music
Sinners & Saints: The Ultimate Medieval and Renaissance Music Collection
Romeo & Juliet

ASIN: B00000J83S
Release Date: 1999-06-08

Tracks:

Preludio
Bianco Flore
Danza
gagliarda
Canzone
Saltorello
Galliard
Allemande
Alman
Pavane
Galliard
Melancholy Galliard
The Cobbler
The King Of Denmark's Galliard
As I Went To Walshingham
Go From My Window
La Rossignol
Drewries Accordes
Toy For Two Lutes
Recercate Concertante
Greensleeves
Wilson's Wilde

Tracks:

The Western Wynde
It Was A Lover And His Lass
Edi Beo Thu, Hevene Quene
Greensleeves
The King's Dance
Galliarde
My Lady Carey's Dompe
The New Saboo
Pavane D'Angleterre
La Volta, Theme & Variations
Nobody's Gigge
The Earl Of Essex Galliard

Customer Reviews:

Pleasant and relaxing.......2000-08-30

I heard this at a local mega-bookstore. It is pleasing enough that I actually heard it and was listening to it. Definitely background or relaxation music, but also good enough to listen to. The woodwinds on some of the pieces are very lyrical. Good medieval/Elizabethan type music.

Purcell: Odes for St. Cecilia's Day - Music for Queen Mary / Taverner Consort

Average customer rating:

Unrivalled recording......uncommon brilliance.
a voice teacher and early music fan
Excellent
No Bargain
Awesome! A high tenor paradise

Purcell: Odes for St. Cecilia's Day - Music for Queen Mary / Taverner Consort
Henry Purcell , Emma Kirkby , Charles Daniels , David Thomas , John Mark Ainsley , Michael Chance , Choir & Players Taverner Consort , Roger Covey-Crump , Michael George , Simon Grant , Paul Elliott , and Kevin Smith
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

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Odes | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Essential Purcell
Purcell: The Fairy Queen
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Shakespeare Songs
Gabrieli · Monteverdi · Vivaldi - Venetian Church Music / Taverner Consort, Choir & Players · Andrew Parrott

ASIN: B00000J2Q8
Release Date: 1999-06-08

Tracks:

Music For Queen Mary: Symphony
Music For Queen Mary: Welcome To All The Pleasures
Music For Queen Mary: Here The Deities Approve - While Joys Celestial
Music For Queen Mary: Then Lift Up Your Voices
Music For Queen Mary: Beauty, Thou Scene of Love
Music For Queen Mary: In A Consort Of Voices
Music For Queen Mary: Man That Is Born Of A Woman
Music For Queen Mary: In The Midst Of Life
Music For Queen Mary: Thou Knowest, Lord
Music For Queen Mary: Symphony (Adagio - Allegro) - Adagio
Music For Queen Mary: Come Ye Sons Of Art
Music For Queen Mary: Sound The Trumpet
Music For Queen Mary: Come Ye Sons Of Art
Music For Queen Mary: Strike The Viol
Music For Queen Mary: The Day That Such A Blessing Gave
Music For Queen Mary: Bid The Virtues
Music For Queen Mary: These Are The Sacred Charms
Music For Queen Mary: See, Nature, Rejoicing
Music For Queen Mary: March
Music For Queen Mary: Thou Knowest, Lord
Music For Queen Mary: Canzona

Tracks:

Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: Symphony (Introduction) - Canzona & Adagio - Allegro - Grave - Allegro
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: Hail! Bright Cecilia
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: Hark! Hark! Each Tree
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: 'Tis Nature's Voice
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: Soul Of The World
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: Thou Tun'st This World Below
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: With That Sublime Celestial Lay
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: Voluntary - In D Minor - Wonderous Machine!
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: The Airy Violin
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: In Vain The An'rous Flute
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: The Fife And All The Harmony Of War
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: Let These Amongst Themselves Contest
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: Hail! Bright Cecilia
Odes For St. Cecilia's Day: With Rapture Of Delight - Hail! Bright Cecilia

Amazon.com essential recording

Andrew Parrott and his Taverner Consort, Choir, and Players have made some of the finest Purcell recordings to have appeared since the period-instrument revival began; unfortunately, most of those discs had been out of print for years. Happily, Virgin has reissued some of Parrott's best work on this reasonably priced two-for-one release. The performances aren't just exemplary, they're something of a landmark: in them Parrott pioneered the now-standard practice of using high tenors rather than falsettists on some of Purcell's low-lying "countertenor" parts. (One example is "Sound the trumpet," a duet for "high" and "low" countertenors from Purcell's ode Come, ye sons of art, sung by falsettist Timothy Wilson and high tenor John Mark Ainsley.) Excellent performances of the Funeral Sentences and Funeral Music for Queen Mary are here as well, but the centerpiece of this set is Hail, bright Cecilia!, the longest and most colorful of Purcell's odes in praise of the patron saint of music. There is some serious competition here--Paul McCreesh and Philippe Herreweghe have made superb recordings of this work--but Parrott edges them out. For example, alone among the ode's conductors on record, Parrott interpolates an organ solo amidst all of the text's praise of the organ (an instrument St. Cecilia was thought to have invented); he also provides appealing variety by using 12 different soloists (as Purcell did at the premiere). Those soloists are an impressive lot--they include Emma Kirkby, David Thomas, Paul Elliott and Charles Daniels (gently enchanting in the tenor duet "In vain the am'rous Flute"), and the Hilliard Ensemble's Rogers Covey-Crump, who gives an extraordinary rendition of the famous and fearsomely difficult air "'Tis Nature's Voice." --Matthew Westphal

Customer Reviews:

Unrivalled recording......uncommon brilliance........2006-11-24

The mind boggles when listening to Purcell. Certainly his was a genius that could vie with any great contrapuntist. It is sad that he had to go so early in his life. But then I guess we wouldn't have seen the rise and rise of Handel.

Having said that, this recording is a marvellous one, one of uncommon brilliance I might add. It does not represent a summary of his work and style, even if restricted to just his vocal music, such was the originality and fertility of his invention. But it is revealing of the enormity of his command of music. Why this composer isn't as well-known as Mozart or Bach, or yes even Handel, I will never know.

I assure all that the quality of these recordings is unrivalled. Careful attention is paid to detail, and a first-rate line up of soloists ensures a world-class performance. I give this recording 5 stars out of five, for a stunning example of excellence and high standards.

a voice teacher and early music fan.......2006-07-29

This is a 2 CD package which involves 2 different recording dates and recording groups. Disc l: Odes "Welcome to all the Pleasures"-"Funeral Sentences"-"Come Ye sons of Art"-"Funeral Music for Queen Mary". The singers on this disc are:Emily Evera(soprano),Timothy Wilson (countertenor),John Mark Ainsley(tenor),Charles Daniels (tenor) and David Thomas (bass). It was recorded in 1988, Disc 2: ode "Hail Bright Cecelia" with singers Emma Kirkby (soprano),Michael Chance , Kevin Smith (countertenors),Paul Elliot, Neil Jenkins, Andrew King (tenors)and Michael George, Richard Wistreich (basses).This disc was recorded in 1985.Contrary to Westphal's opinion, I do not like tenors to be given solos that should be sung by countertenors; the quality of the tenor voice is not light enough for these tunes. Also Disc 1 has it over disc 2 in quality because the singers are better balanced as to skill than on Disc 2; this is most unfortunate because the better soprano (Kirkby) and the better countertenor (Chance)are on Disc 2. I absolutely do not like the sound of Kevin Smith's voice; it is "edgy" and lacks warmth. In fact, it detracts from whatever he sings on the Disc. There are a lot better recordings of these odes by other conductors; try them if you have no recordings of these at all.

Excellent.......2005-12-01

This is an excellent set of performances of these Purcell gems. The soloists, choir, and instrumentalists are all first rate. The infrequently performed funeral and birthday music for Queen Mary is a real treat. Recommended strongly.

No Bargain.......2004-01-23

I agree with the Editorial Review and the comments posted with this release. These are superb recordings of Purcell's great works. But there is a big problem with this package. This is a Virgin Veritas x2 pack. The original recordings have been bundled up in a space saving jewel case and sold at half the price of the originals. Unfortunately, this comes at cost to the potential buyer. Gone is the original artwork, gone are the original notes by Richard Luckett and Eric Van Tassel, and most seriously, gone are the lyrics of these great works. Unless you already own versions of these works that have the lyrics, this is not the place to start. I strongly urge you to acquire these wonderful works in their original editions from Virgin: Hail! Bright Cecilia on disc #45160 and Come ye sons of art on disc #45159 (for some reason, Amazon has these listed under the label EMI). This release is no bargain.

Awesome! A high tenor paradise.......1999-07-22

What a wonderful recording! The lineup of soloists is simply stunning. There are many of them: practically a different person for each air. This achieves admirable variety, and each voice is a pleasure to hear. I'm a big fan of hautes-contre, so I was really happy to discover that they get to sing most of the "alto" airs on this set. The highlight of this recording is my all time favorite Purcell air 'Tis Nature's Voice, stunningly sung here by Rogers Covey-Crump. I think I've heard just about every 'Tis Nature's Voice ever recorded (except for Rene Jacobs, who I wouldn't really want to hear), and Covey-Crump undeniably gets the most out of it. But my favorite remains Mark Padmore on the Herreweghe recording of Hail! Bright Cecilia. Herreweghe uses fewer soloists (Padmore sings all tenor and half of all countertenor parts), and slower tempi that, in my view, help the singers' intonation. But all in all, the choice ends up being a matter of taste. There is no rational basis to prefer one of these two recordings over the other: both are wonderful.

Average customer rating:

Interesting music interestingly sung
The marriage of skill and magic
There is no such thing as too much Emma Kirkby
emma's pure and magical voice.
Voice of an Angel!

The Emma Kirkby Collection
Claudio Monteverdi , George Frideric Handel , Johann Sebastian Bach , Sigismondo D'India , John Dowland , Guillaume de Machaut , Hildegard of Bingen , Thomas Campion , Henry Lawes , Henry Purcell , Michael East , The Consort of Musicke , Taverner Consort Players , Roy Goodman , Anthony Rooley , Emma Kirkby , Christopher Page , Denys Darlow , Andrew Parrott , Parley of Instruments , London Handel Orchestra , Gothic Voices , David Reichenberg , and Instrumental Ensemble
Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Partsongs | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Virelais | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Kirkby, Emma | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
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Emma Kirkby sings Handel, Arne, Haydn & Mozart
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ASIN: B000002ZJG
Release Date: 1993-11-12

Tracks:

Confiterbor tibi, Domine (Psalm 110)
Now Hath Flora Robbed Her Bowers
Stript Of Their Green Our groves Appear
Voglio di vita uscir
Piangono al pianger mio
Flow Not So Fast, Ye Fountains
Foy Porter
Columba aspexit
Sheep May Safely Graze
Time Stands Still
Diana
Quel squardo sdegnosetto
Maledetto sia l'aspetto
The Lark
Move Now With Measured Sound
Sharp Thorns Despising
Sich tiben im Lieben
You Meaner Beauties Of The Night

Customer Reviews:

Interesting music interestingly sung.......2007-02-01

Much of this vocal music is from an era with which I am unfamiliar. It ranges from the work of Hildegarde of Bergen (1098-1179) to Handel (1685-1759); obviously, this album covers much territory! Emma Kirkby displays her virtuosity on this CD. The notes from the CD say that "One of the favorite adjectives used by critics. . .is the word 'celestial.'" At a later point, the notes speak of Kirkby further: "There is a freshness, an openness, an honesty about her voice. . ."

Some comments on works randomly selected.

Monteverdi's "Confitebor tibi, Domine." Here, Kirkby displays a clean light voice. She exhibits a spirited "Gloria Patri" with some spare but interesting ornamentation.

Campion's "Now hath Flora robbed her bowers." This cut shows off to good effect the agility in her voice.

John Dowland, "Flow not so fast, ye fountains." Here is displayed her smooth voice; her singing flows smoothly from one note to the next. There is a poignancy in her singing on this piece.

Guillaume de Machaut, "Foy porter." She treats the redoubtable de Machaut well; his works are some of the best of his time. This is smoothly song and does his work justice.

Hildegarde of Birgen, "Columba aspexit." This is the oldest composition on this CD by far. The work is spare, but well sung. There is a hypnotic quality to the work and Kirkby sings it well.

Lawes, "The Lark." Again, nice agility of her voice is displayed.

Other compositions on this CD are by Purcell, J. S. Bach, Sigismondo d'India, and Handel.

All in all, a nice sampling of the work of Emma Kirkby. I was not much familiar with her work before listening to this CD, but I am delighted that I did purchase this work.

The marriage of skill and magic.......2007-01-12

Ms. Kirby's voice is limpid, exquisitely pitched, strong, and yet beautifully refined. Her command of her voice is extraordinary, with phrasing, delicate embellishments and what I think are some vocal cadenzas, all showing the skill and craft of an artist who has brought her artistry to its highest state. But she makes her artistry sound so easy, so natural: nothing of bravura, nothing forced here. The selections are wonderfully chosen; together, they give us the whole range of early to late Baroque, in every mood. Each listening refreshes the spirit. What an artist!

There is no such thing as too much Emma Kirkby.......2002-07-16

The only defect in this disk is that it isn't a three or four disk set. Some people don't appreciate her beautiful voice and I feel sorry for them. I first heard her voice live in a concert here in Ann Arbor in December of 1980 and she stunned me. The memory of her beautiful voice still lives in my mind and heart.

Well, this disk gives us 18 selections from a number of different composers from the Baroque. Every one of them is a treasure and has its own charms. I can't pick a favorite, but I can say that each of these pieces show off her voice and singing style in different ways.

Yes, I wish she had included more Purcell and something even nicer than what we have on track 3, but what would I give up? Well, that is where I say we need this to have been a two or three disk collection.

You won't go wrong with this wonderful disk!

emma's pure and magical voice........2000-10-16

This cd shows Emma's versatility as a Baroque and early music performer. Her pure voice matches the music so well. I really enjoy the song "You meaner beauties of the night." This is only one among many cd's which shows Emma's great voice. I highly recommend the Emma Kirkby collection.

Voice of an Angel!.......1999-07-20

One of the most beautiful angelic voice in the world! But I don't think this collection shows her best recording pieces.

In Nomine: 16th Century English Music for Viols Including the Complete Consort Music of Thomas Tallis - Fretwork

Average customer rating:

In Nomine: 16th Century English Music for Viols Including the Complete Consort Music of Thomas Tallis - Fretwork
John Taverner , Thomas Preston , Robert Johnson , Robert Parsons , Alfonso Ferrabosco , Richard Campbell , Julia Hodgson , William Hunt , Elizabeth Liddle , and Christopher Wilson
Manufacturer: Amon Ra
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000002048
Release Date: 1995-03-06

Tracks:

In Nomine A 4, No. 1
In Nomine A 5 'Crye'
In Nomine A 5 'Trust'
Solfaing Song A 5
Fa La Sol A 3
In Nomine A 4
Fant A 5
In Nomine A 5
In Nomine A 4, No. 2
Fant A 3, No. 3
In Nomine
In Nomine A 4, No. 2
O Lux Beata Trinitas A 3
In Nomine A 4
In Nomine A 5
Ut Re Mi Fa Sol La A 4
In Nomine A 5
Lute Fant, No 5
Fant A 4
Libera Nos, Salva Nos A 5
In Nomine A 4

Average customer rating:

Renaissance Masterpieces (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Jesus of Nazareth

ASIN: B000092Q5W
Release Date: 2003-04-29

Bach: St. John Passion; Mass in B Minor; Easter Oratorio; Ascension Oratorio

Average customer rating:

Professional Bach recording - minimal setting, full sound
Absolutely Bach
Wonderful Bach
One-voice-per-part in all its glory

Bach: St. John Passion; Mass in B Minor; Easter Oratorio; Ascension Oratorio

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B00005UNXB
Release Date: 2002-12-23

Tracks:

No.1 Herr, Unser Herscher
No.2a Jesus Ging Mit Seinen Jungern/No.2b Jesum Von Nazareth/No.2c Jesus Spricht Zu Ihnen/No.2d Jesum Von Nazareth/No.2e Jesus Antwortet
No.3 O GroBe Lieb
Auf Dass Das Wort Erfullet Wurde
No.5 Dein Will Gescheh, Herr Gott, Zugleich
No.6 Die Schar Aber Und Der Oberhauptmann
No. 7 Von Den Stricken Meiner Sunden
No.8 Simon Petrus Aber Folgte Jesum Nach
No.9 Ich Folge Dir Gleichfalls
No.10 Derselbige Junger War Dem hohenpriester Bekannt
No.11 Wer Hat Dich So Geschlagen
No.12a Und Hannas Sandte Ihn Gebunden/No.12b Bist Du Nicht Seiner Junger Einer?/No.12c Er Leugnete Aber Und Sprach
No.13 Ach, Mein Sinn - Rogers Covey-Crump
No.14 Petrus, Der Nicht Denkt Zuruck

Tracks:

No.15 Christus, Der Uns Selig Macht
No.16a Da Fuhreten Sie Jesum/No.16b Ware Dieser Nicht Ein Ubeltater/No.16c Da Sprach Pilatus Zu Ihnen/No.16d Wir Durfen Niemand Toten/No.16e Auf Dass Erfullet Wurde
No.17 Ach, GroBer Konig
No.18a Da Sprach Pilatus Zu Ihm/No.18b Nicht Siesen, Sondern Barrabam/No.18c Barrabas Aber War Ein Morder
No.19 Betrachte, Meine Seel - David Thomas
No.20 Mein Jesu, Ach! - Rogers Covey-Crump
No.21a Und Die Kriegsknechte Flochten/No.21b Sei GegruBet, Lieber Judenkonig!/No.21c Und Gaben Ihm Backenstreiche/No.21d Kreuzige, Kreuzige!/No.21e Pilatus Sprach Zu Ihnen/No.21f Wir Haben Ein Gestez/No.21g Da Pilatus Das Wort Horete
No.22 Durch Dein Gefangnis, Gottes Sohn
No.23a Die Juden Aber Schrien/No.23b Lassest Du Diesen Los/No.23c Da Pilatus Das Wort Horete/No.23d Weg, Weg Mit Dem/No.23e Spricht Pilatus Zu Ihnen/No.23f Wir Haben Keinen Konig/No.23g Da Uberantwortete Er Ihn
No.24 Eilt, Ihr Angefocht'nen Seelen - David Thomas
No.25a Allda Kreuzigten Sie Ihn/No.25b Schreibe Nicht: Der Juden Konig/No.25c Pilatus Antwortet
No.26 In Meines Herzens Grunde
No.27a Die Kriegsknechte Aber/No.27b Lasset Uns Den Night Zerteilen/No.27c Auf Dass Erfullet Wurde Die Schrift
No.28 Er Nahm Alles Wohl In Acht
No.29 Und Von Stund An Nahm Sie
No.30 Es Ist Vollbracht
No.31 Und Neigte Das Haupt Und Verschied
No.32 Mein Teurer Heiland - David Thomas
No.33 Und Siehe Da, Der Vorhang Im Tempel Zerriss
No.34 Mein Herz, In Dem Die Ganze Welt - Rogers Covey-Crump
No.35 ZerflieBe, Mein Herze
No.36 Die Juden Aber, Dieweil Es Der Rusttag War
No.37 O Hilf, Christe, Gottes Sohn
No.38 Darnach Bat Pilatum Joseph Von Arimathia
No.39 Ruht Wohl, Ihr Heiligen Gebeine
No.40 Ach Herr, Lass Dein' Lieb' Englelein

Tracks:

Sinfonia - Charles Daniels
Adagio - Charles Daniels
Kommt, Eilet Und Laufet - Charles Daniels
O Kalter Manner Sinn! - Charles Daniels
Seele, Deine Spezereien - Charles Daniels
Hier Ist Die Gruft - Charles Daniels
Sanfte Soll Mein Todeskummer
Indessen Seufzen Wir - Charles Daniels
Saget, Saget Mir Geschwinde - Charles Daniels
Wir Sind Erfreut - Charles Daniels
Preis Und Dank - Charles Daniels
Lobet Gott In Seinen Reichen - Emma Kirkby
Der Herr Jesus Hub Seine Hande Auf - Emma Kirkby
Ach, Jesu, Ist Dein Abschied Schon So Nah? - Emma Kirkby
Ach, Bleibe Doch, Mein Liebstes Leben - Emma Kirkby
Und Ward Aufgehoben Zusehens - Emma Kirkby
Nun Lieget Alles Unter Dir - Emma Kirkby
Und Da Sie Ihm Nachsahen - Ihr Manner Von Galilaa - Ach Ja! So Komme Bald Zuruck - Emma Kirkby
Jesu, Deine Gnadenblicke - Emma Kirkby
Wenn Soll Es Doch Geschehen - Emma Kirkby

Tracks:

Kyrie Eleison
Christe Eleison - Emma Kirkby
Kyrie Eleison
Gloria In Excelsis Deo
Et In Terra Pax
Laudamus Te - Emily Van Evera
Gratias Agimus Tibi
Domine Deus - Emma Kirkby
Qui Tollis Peccata Mundi
Qui Sedes Ad Dextram Patris - Panito Iconomou
Quoniam Tu Solus Sanctus - David Thomas
Cum Sancto Spiritu

Tracks:

Credo In Unum Deum
Patrem Omnipotentem
Et In Unum Dominum - Panito Iconomou
Et Incarnatus Est
Crucifixus
Et Resurrexit
Et In Spiritum Sanctum - David Thomas
Confiteor
Et Expecto
Sanctus
Osanna In Excelsis
Benedictus
Osanna In Excelsis
Agnus Dei - Panito Iconomou
Dona Nobis Pacem

Customer Reviews:

Professional Bach recording - minimal setting, full sound.......2007-06-11

When I purchased this 5-disc set by Andrew Parrot, I had failed to notice that this recording is at the minimum-setting of Bach recordings. No choir, but one individual voice per vocal part. Now normally, I like a nice big full choir sound, so before listening I had some doubts as to this recording would appeal to me.
Well, I must say, now that I've listened to it a couple of times, it's really a wonderfully pure effect, and I really DO like it. The sound isn't bleak at all, and at times the four interacting voices do sound like a small choir. I really do not know what Bach's original intentions were, but this recording is really a joy to listen to, and that's what counts most for me.

Absolutely Bach.......2005-01-12

Went looking for the Mass only, but got the whole box set at roughly the same price. Sure I'm not complaining.

If you like Rifkin's earlier and almost equally exciting version, this is your thing! Apparently Bach would endorse the use of boy alto for the performance. On the whole the performance was more rugged, and therefore more real than ever. The tempi are subtle and the instruments sound lean yet powerful. A mustbuy.

Wonderful Bach.......2004-10-08

I must agree with the other reviewer that this is a great collection. However, I like the presence of the boy alto in the Mass. Bach composed most of his religious works for a boys choir but you wouldn't guess it from looking at most recordings. To the best of my knowledge this Mass is the only recording out there that is both OVPP and includes a boy soloist. It works for me.

One-voice-per-part in all its glory.......2003-03-07

Pick up this set. When I saw the ... price on these gems, I immediately ordered it. Andrew Parrott is a wonderful conductor who subscribes to the theory that Bach intended his choral music to be sung with one voice on a part. Quite a contrast to many recordings out there with 50+ on a part. Along with everyone else, I was a bit leery of this approach but wait until you hear these results! His performance of the mass is absolutely breathtaking! Rifkin recorded the mass OVPP but some of the soloists were a bit weak, especially compared to Parrott's soloists. I picked up this one and the Herreweghe recording of the mass (considered to be the best in many circles) around the same time and I found myself continually coming back to this one. The clarity of the vocal lines is wonderful. Some of the fugal lines get lost in Herreweghe's approach but not in Parrott's recording. You can follow each wonderful line from beginning to end. Parrott's soloists have a very clear, non-"operatic", beautiful sound that tunes so well (rare in OVPP works in my opinion). This is what makes the choral sections work so well--lack of excessive vibrato that makes Bach's musical lines unfold beautifully. The solo sections are just as impressive. The only beef I have with the recording is Parrott's use of a boy alto. An admirable job in most respects but he just can't quite match the maturity of the other voices.
The St. John's Passion is almost as remarkable. The choral singing is delightful and the soloists are again excellent. When you get these two landmark recordings plus The Easter and Ascension Oratorios to boot, the price is mind-boggling. I would pay this price for the mass alone. Highest recommendation.

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Music Review

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