Organum

Organum

Track Listings

1. Part 1
2. Part 2
3. Part 3
4. Part 4

Organum,Peter Michael Hamel,Kuck Kuck Records,Ethnic Fusion,Minimalism,Neo-Classical,New Age / Meditation,Pop


Perotin / The Hilliard Ensemble
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Absolutely stunning!
  • The Best Perotin Recording.
  • Magnificent
  • the Perotin cd
  • An imaginative, sensitive recording.
Perotin / The Hilliard Ensemble
Perotin , Anonymous , Paul Hillier , Charles Daniels , David James , The Hilliard Ensemble , John Potter , Rogers Covey-Crump , Gordon Jones , and Mark Padmore
Manufacturer: Ecm Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Hilliard EnsembleHilliard Ensemble | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ECM ClassicalECM Classical | ECM Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
ECM Jazz & WorldECM Jazz & World | ECM Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Machaut: Messe de Notre Dame / The Hilliard Ensemble
  2. Josquin Desprez: Motets & Chansons
  3. Magister Leoninus: Sacred Music from 12th-Century Paris
  4. Guillaume de Machaut: Motets
  5. Morimur

ASIN: B000025ZXO
Release Date: 2000-04-18

Tracks:

  1. Viderunt omnes
  2. Veni creator spiritus
  3. Alleluia posui adiutorium
  4. O Maria virginei
  5. Dum sigillum
  6. Isaias cecinit
  7. Alleluia nativitas
  8. Beata viscera
  9. Siderunt principes

Amazon.com essential recording

It would be impossible to adequately describe the inherent haunting beauty of Perotin's music, or to fully detail its far-reaching influence in latter-12th-century France. The opening "Viderunt omnes" is a perfect illustration of the surprising vitality and highly charged sense of forward motion that can be obtained with relatively simple rhythmic impulses and harmonic devices. The male voices of the Hilliard Ensemble generate an electrifying resonance that vibrates everything in the room that's not solid or nailed down. You can literally feel this music, ringing with natural harmonics and set to body-moving rhythms. Yes, it's religious music, intended for lofty cathedral spaces; but it moves, and it's moving, and this recording gives it to you full blast. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely stunning!.......2005-06-24

I am a musical novice. I was brought up listening to Pink Floyd, Santana, Joni Mitchell, and so on. I could not read music to save my life. Then someone introduced me to some Josquin Des Pres Rennaissance Polyphony - Missa L'homme arme sexti toni, Agnus Dei, to be specific - and I was totally hooked.

A few years later, someone introduced me to this CD, and I was even more taken. For some reason, I really like the Perotin-composed pieces - tracks 1, 3, 5, 7, 8 and 9. The Beata viscera (track 8) is other-worldly, and quite possibly one of the most beautiful things I've ever heard in my entire life!

You don't have to be a musical scholar to enjoy this - it's simply beautiful!

5 out of 5 stars The Best Perotin Recording........2005-06-16

Perotin was a 12th century composer in Paris at the Cathedral of Notre Dame. We know almost nothing about him. Perotin (which is a diminutive of Peter) is described by a mid-thirteenth century student identified today as Anonymous IV who states that Perotin was the greatest composer of discant and better than another composer, Leonin, who came before him (it's not even 100% clear that they were at the Cathedral of Notre Dame). Now you know literally everything there is to know about Perotin.

Perotin composed organum--multi-voice compositions which move quickly over the traditional Gregorian chant which has been stretched out so that each note is very long. How long are they stretched out? Well, to give an example, the first track is over 11 minutes long!

The great thing about this music is that it takes you to another world--it is not supposed to be "emotive" or self-expressive. It represents pure, solemn, inspiration.

The Hilliard Ensemble has done a tremendous job in this recording. They make medieval music come to life, and their precision is fantastic.

Before organum, European music was essentially Gregorian chant--one melodic line with no rhythm or harmony. But with multiple voice parts, rhythm is necessary to keep the parts together. This also led to the creation of harmony. One can only imagine the wonder as the common medieval man wandered into the enormous Cathedral at Notre Dame, marveled at the stained glass, and heard this music. It must truly have been an inspiring occasion. This recording helps us partially reconnect with the wonder of this early music.

5 out of 5 stars Magnificent.......2005-01-28

This is a great recording. Anyone who has the least interest in serious music should be familiar with Perotin's works, just as they would with all the "greatest" composers. This music is profound, sublime and truly beautiful. And, I might add, diametrically opposed and far superior to much of the "minimalist" music of today with which it is sometimes compared. The Hilliard Ensemble is incomparable.

5 out of 5 stars the Perotin cd.......2003-04-10

I think tihs is simply the best Perotin cd you can have. The vocal quality is much more fluid (& knowledgeably middle-agey) than any other Perotin recordings I've heard.

5 out of 5 stars An imaginative, sensitive recording........2002-10-18

Smooth, expressive, at times exquisite singing illuminates the music's richness and diversity. Music which is vast, erie, mysterious and yet pulsates with vigor and life, even lust for life. Such a marraige between the cosmic and the earthly is typical of the medeival artist and Perotin is one of the greatest. While the three anonymous works naturally show a less drastic and comprehensive spirit, they do reveal a few treasures of the great artistry of Notre Dame.
Leonin, Perotin: Sacred Music from Notre-Dame Cathedral
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Nice
  • A Resounding Success
  • A Voice Feast from the Middle Ages
Leonin, Perotin: Sacred Music from Notre-Dame Cathedral

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Sacred & ReligiousSacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ChantsChants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
$6.99 and Under$6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Dunstable: Sweet Harmony - Masses and Motets
  2. Machaut: La Messe de Nostre Dame; Songs from Le Voir Dit
  3. Perotin / The Hilliard Ensemble
  4. Palestrina: Missa Papae Marcelli, Missa Aeterna
  5. Josquin Desprez: Motets & Chansons

ASIN: B0009SQC8W
Release Date: 2005-07-19

Tracks:

  1. Beata Viscera
  2. Viderunt Omnes
  3. Viderunt Omnes
  4. (Plainchant) ... Fines Terre Salutare Dei ...
  5. (2-Part Organum) ... Notum Fecit ...
  6. ... Dominus ...
  7. ... Salutare Suum Ante Conspectum ...
  8. (Plainchant) ... Justitiam Suam
  9. (2-Part Organum) ...Viderunt Omnes ...
  10. (Plainchant) ... Fines Terre Salutare Dei ...
  11. (2-Part Organum) ... Notum Fecit ...
  12. ... Dominus ...
  13. (Plainchant) ... Justitiam Suam
  14. (2-Part Organum) ...Viderunt Omnes ...
  15. (Plainchant) ... Fines Terre Salutare Dei ...
  16. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
  17. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
  18. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
  19. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
  20. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
  21. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
  22. (2-Part Motet): Factum Est Salutare/
  23. (4-Part Organum): Viderunt Omnes ...
  24. (Plainchant) ... Fines Terre Salutare Dei ...
  25. (4-Part Organum): Notum Fecit ...
  26. ... Dominus ...
  27. .... Salutare Suum Ante Conspectum ...
  28. (Plainchant) ... Justitiam Suam
  29. (Plainchant): Viderunt Omnes ...
  30. (Organum After 9th-Century Scolica Enchiriadis)...
  31. (4-Part Organum): Sederunt Principes
  32. (4-Part Conductus): Vetus Abit Littera

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Nice.......2006-11-04

This is a very good example of Polyphony as practiced in Notre Dame .....

5 out of 5 stars A Resounding Success .......2005-12-27

If one read the album notes but failed to read the fine print on the rear of the jacket, one would likely assume that this recording was made in Notre Dame Cathedral, which it was not. It was recorded at Chancelade Abbey, Dordogne, France. (http://chapaq.free.fr/Congregations/Chancelade.htm)

The notes mention the fact that both Leonin and Perotin worked at Notre Dame and were both responsible for the Organum. Organum is Polyphony used in liturgical music from the late 9th century to c. 1250.

I bring this up because few people, even musicologists, understand the vital roles that acoustics and harmonics(overtones)played in the composition of sacred music until about the Seventeenth Century.

The musicologist, Thurston Dart, summarizes the influence that reverberation has on composers:

"But even a superficial study shows that early composers were very aware of the effect on their music of the surroundings in which it was to be performed, and that they deliberately shaped their music accordingly. Musical acoustics can be roughly divided into resonant, room and outdoor. Plainsong is resonant music; so is the harmonic style of Leonin and Perotin .. Perotin's music, in fact, is perfectly adapted to the acoustics of the highly resonant cathedral (Notre Dame Paris) for which it was written...."
(Thurston Dart, musicologist, "The interpretation of Music",Hutchinson, London pp56-57 (1954).

I think, like most 'moderns', Mr. Dart has got it backwards -- these composers were mostly aware of the effect of the surroundings upon their music. Composers like Leonin and Perotin and others, notably Allegri (composer of the famous "Miserere"), were more interested on the effect that the music, augmented by the acoustics, had on the congregation, in terms of literally uplifting their spirits and assisting them in participating directly in what was called the "Communion of Saints".


E. Power Biggs said: "An organist will take al the reverberation time he is given, and then ask for a bit more.... Many of Bach's organ works are designed .... to explore reverberation. Consider the pause that follows the ornamented proclamation that opens the famous Toccata in D minor. Obviously this is for the enjoyment of the notes as they remain suspended in the air". Church music sounds wrong when performed in a small non-reverberant space with a lot of acoustic absorbent such as curtains and carpets."
(http://www.acoustics.salford.ac.uk/acoustics_world/concert_hall_acoustics/acoustics_music.html)

E. Power Biggs and the pundits at Salford University, assume that Bach and his predecessors valued acoustics and resonance primarily from the standpoint of aesthetics. In other words, they chose reverberant halls because their music sounded better when performed in them. I believe that they too are missing the point. Acoustic Archeologists, like John Reid and Paul Devereux are beginning to discover that ancient holy places, such as Stonehenge and also the Gothic Cathedrals, like Notre Dame de Paris, were actually tuned to resonate certain specific pitches or sound frequencies. They are or contain what are called "resonant chambers".

A resonant chamber essentially reflects and amplifies or "empowers" certain specific frequencies, particularly when they are sung by a chorus (or congregation) of "pure voices" in unison. These frequencies and the harmonies reproduced by the reverberations elicited certain specific emotional responses, such as awe and reverence, from the assembly. I'm sure that Leonin and Perotin were well aware of the marvelous acoustics of Notre Dame and structured their music to take full advantage of it.

After the invention of the printing press, increasingly more emphasis was placed on the written and spoken word. Music was no longer spontaneously created or improvised and less and more reverberant acoustics only served to muddle the words of the preacher or celebrant.

I'm guessing that the reason why the producer, Jeremy Summerly, chose not to record this music in its original home is because it now uses a P.A. or electronic audio system, which is more appropriate for the modern mostly-spoken Mass. Masses are undoubtedly still sung there but the voices are likely amplified and filtered by electronics. The addition of modern furnishings can also affect the acoustics.

Speaking of electronics -- it is now possible to accurately reproduce the acoustics of a particular space, like Notre Dame Cathedral, electronically. The acoustics of Notre Dame have already been captured and digitally reproduced, I believe, by the Japanese Yamaha Company. Unfortunately, I did not have that particular software program ("algorhythm") but, using other software, I was able to create my own semi-cavernous cathedral space.

What an awesome experience!

Even without the virtual cathedral enhancement, the sound is marvelous and the performance is excellent.

One more technical consideration -- this recording was recorded and edited at 24-bit resolution. Unlike recordings made at a lower bit-rate, the sound, particularly in the higher registers, is smooth and clean. I wish that Jeremy Summerly would record Allegri's "Miserere" in a space that is acoustically similar to the Sistine Chapel, using the same technology. I haven't heard a recording of this work where the vital higher harmonics are not badly distorted.

Tim O'Hanlon

4 out of 5 stars A Voice Feast from the Middle Ages.......2005-07-23

Recorded and edited in 24 bit resolution, this Naxos recording is a joy to the ears. The performing voices are solid and the direction of Antony Pitts has a sometimes dramatic, majestic, tempo. The only reason I did not concede full 5 stars is because in the Middle Ages female voices for Lithurgy were almost unknown, and in this record there are two sopranos and an Alto. If you enjoy Early Music you will need this record, if you are a beginner this is an intelligent way to introduce you to Polyphony, a cornerstone of Western music.
Ars subtilior: Dawn of the Renaissance
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The Ars subtileor rules.
Ars subtilior: Dawn of the Renaissance

Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by DufayAll Works by Dufay | Dufay, Guillaume | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
RondosRondos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Sacred & ReligiousSacred & Religious | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
CompilationsCompilations | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MassesMasses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MotetsMotets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
PartsongsPartsongs | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Renaissance (c.1450-1600)Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ClassicalClassical | Imports | Stores | Music
$9.99 and Under$9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Dufay, GuillaumeDufay, Guillaume | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Le siècle de l'Ars nova: A Revolution in the Late Middle Ages
  2. Troubadours: Minnesänger and Other Courtly Arts
  3. Century 1/Various
  4. A History of Music - Century (volume) 5 - La Naissance de la Polyphonie (The Birth of Polyphony)
  5. L'émergence de la musique instrumentale

ASIN: B000ARHNDU
Release Date: 2005-12-13

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The Ars subtileor rules........2006-11-21

Even though the title is a slight misnomer as more than half of the tracks are post-ars subtileor, this is an absolutely marvellous CD. Starting with Philipoctus de Caserta (ca.1370) and ending with Antoine Busnoys (d.1492), this CD surveys some of the best polyphonic secular and sacred music of the post-Ars nova Middle Ages.
The pieces are superbly performed by some of the very best early musicians of our day including the Orlando Consort, Ensemble organum and the Hilliard Ensemble. I highly recommend this CD for pleasure or instruction.
Dr. Joseph Baldassarre
Professor of Music History
Boise State University
Discover Early Music
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • another winner from Naxos
  • awesome value -- 5+ stars
Discover Early Music

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Byrd, WilliamByrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by DowlandAll Works by Dowland | Dowland, John | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by DufayAll Works by Dufay | Dufay, Guillaume | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by GesualdoAll Works by Gesualdo | Gesualdo, Carlo | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Hildegard of BingenHildegard of Bingen | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by LassusAll Works by Lassus | Lassus, Orlando di(Lasso) | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by ObrechtAll Works by Obrecht | Obrecht, Jacob | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by TallisAll Works by Tallis | Tallis, Thomas | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by TavernerAll Works by Taverner | Taverner, John | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
RondosRondos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Sacred & ReligiousSacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
GeneralGeneral | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Sacred & ReligiousSacred & Religious | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
CompilationsCompilations | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
OratoriosOratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ChansonsChansons | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ChantsChants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
LiederLieder | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MadrigalsMadrigals | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MassesMasses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MotetsMotets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
OratoriosOratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
PsalmsPsalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Renaissance (c.1450-1600)Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Instructional | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
$7.99 and Under$7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Byrd, WilliamByrd, William | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Dowland, JohnDowland, John | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Dufay, GuillaumeDufay, Guillaume | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Gesualdo, CarloGesualdo, Carlo | ( G ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Hildegard of BingenHildegard of Bingen | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Lassus, Orlando di(Lasso)Lassus, Orlando di(Lasso) | ( L ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Obrecht, JacobObrecht, Jacob | ( O ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Tallis, ThomasTallis, Thomas | ( T ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Taverner, JohnTaverner, John | ( T ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Discover Music of the Baroque Era
  2. Discover Music of the Classical Era
  3. Discover Music of the 20th Century
  4. Discover: Music of the Romantic Era
  5. The World of Early Music

ASIN: B000B6N6BI
Release Date: 2005-11-01

Tracks:

  1. Antiphona Post Evangelium - In Dulci Jubilo
  2. Versus Alleluiatici: Adorabo - Nova Schola Gregoriana
  3. Ordo Virtutum: Procession - Oxford Camerata
  4. Viderunt Omnes - Tonus Peregrinus
  5. Fines Terre Salutare Dei Nostri Jubilate Deo Omnis Terra (Plainchant) - Tonus Peregrinus
  6. Notum Fecit - Tonus Peregrinus
  7. Dominus - Tonus Peregrinus
  8. Salutare Suum Ante Conspectum Gentium Revelavit - Tonus Peregrinus
  9. Justitiam Suam (Plainchant) - Tonus Peregrinus
  10. Gaudete Christus Est Natus - Oxford Camerata
  11. Cantiga De Santa Maria - Michael Posch
  12. Exiit Diluculo - Unicorn Ensemble
  13. Humils Forfaitz - Michael Posch
  14. Adieu Ces Bons Vins De Lannoys - Michael Posch
  15. Non Avra Ma'Pieta Questa Mia Donna - Michael Posch
  16. Non Ara May Pieta Questa Mia Dona - Michael Posch
  17. Veni Creator - Tonus Peregrinus
  18. D'Ung Aultre Amer - Capilla Flamenca
  19. Alleluya - Capilla Flamenca
  20. El Grillo - Shirley Rumsey
  21. El Grillo - Capilla Flamenca
  22. Missa 'La Sol Fa Re Mi': Kyrie - Capilla Flamenca
  23. Le Chant Des Oiseaux - The Scholars Of London
  24. Passe & Medio/Den Iersten Gaillarde - Capilla Flamenca
  25. Den III Ronde, Den VI Ronde-Les Quatre Branles - Convivium Musicum Gothenburgense
  26. Gaillarde I, II, III - Convivium Musicum Gothenburgense

Tracks:

  1. In Nomine - Rose Consort Of Viols
  2. In Nomine No.20 - Rose Consort Of Viols
  3. Spem In Alium - Oxford Camerata
  4. Sanctus - Oxford Camerata
  5. Du Fond De Ma Pensee - Christine Morel
  6. The King Of Denmark's Galiard - Rose Consort Of Viols
  7. Flow, My Tears - Dorothy Linell
  8. Greiner Zancker - Ensemble Villanella
  9. Stat ('Tsaat) Ein Meskin - Ensemble Villanella
  10. Tiento - Shirley Rumsey
  11. Tribulationem Et Dolorem - Oxford Camerata
  12. Lagrime Di San Pietro: 'Il Magnanimo Pietro' - Bo Holten
  13. Missa 'Susanne Un Jour': Kyrie - Oxford Camerata
  14. Beau Le Crystal - The Scholars Of London
  15. Missa 'O Magnum Mysterium': O Magnum Mysterium - Oxford Camerata
  16. Missa 'Papae Marcelli': Kyrie - Oxford Camerata

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars another winner from Naxos.......2007-02-21

This is another winning compilation from Naxos. My only comment is to provide a heads-up regarding the track list in the booklet. CD 1 puts the Leonin "Viderunt Omnes" on six tracks, while the booklet leaves room for only one. Thus, add five to booklet tracks five through 21 for CD1 to get them to match. (I.e., where the booklet says tracks 15 and 16 are two versions of Josquin's "El Grillo," your CD player will show them to be tracks 20 and 21.) With luck this will be corrected in later printings.

Also, I would have liked the booklet to include the words, but perhaps that is an inducement to get particular CDs from Naxos.

As for the music itself--breadth of selection, musicianship, sound quality, all are excellent. A great collection!

5 out of 5 stars awesome value -- 5+ stars.......2006-07-15

I'm really enthusiastic about these CDs and booklet. I've had it for a few weeks now, in which I've explored Medieval and Renaissance music much more deeply than this little book and CD set. Yet I'm very glad I started with these.

The selection of composers gives an excellent, broad sweep across several centuries.

But the booklet contains one of the most informative essays I've found about early music, and I've spent a few dozen dollars buying books. If the booklet were separated from the CDs, it alone would be worth more than $10.

In short, if you're interested in exploring early music, this really is one of the best places to start; the best place that I know of. I'm sure, at any rate, that you can't beat the value.
Chant Corse: Manuscrits franciscains (17th-18th century) /Ensemble Organum * Peres
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • A rich mystical experience.. East meets West
  • Truly spiritual
  • Welcome to the Past
Chant Corse: Manuscrits franciscains (17th-18th century) /Ensemble Organum * Peres
Anonymous , Corsican Chant , Gregorian Chant , Marcel Peres , and Ensemble Organum
Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Sacred & ReligiousSacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ChantsChants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MassesMasses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ClassicalClassical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Chant Mozarabe - Cathedrale de Tolede (15th century) /Ensemble Organum * Peres
  2. Chants de L'Eglise de Rome: Période byzantine
  3. Ambrosian Chant
  4. Chants sacrés de l'Orient (tradition melchite)
  5. Coptic Liturgies

ASIN: B000025YTH
Release Date: 1994-06-14

Tracks:

  1. Laeta Devote
  2. Kyrie Eleison
  3. Gloria In Excelsis
  4. Sanctus
  5. Paschalis Admirabilis
  6. Tantum Ergo Sacramentum
  7. Tota Pulchra Es Maria
  8. Requiem: Requiem Aeternam
  9. Requiem: Kyrie Eleison
  10. Requiem: Offertoire: Domine Jesu Christe
  11. Requiem: Sanctus
  12. Requiem: Agnus Dei
  13. Requiem: Communion
  14. Requiem: Salve Regina
  15. Requiem: Veni Creator Spiritus

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A rich mystical experience.. East meets West.......2003-04-19

I picked up this CD on a whim, I happen to be an ardent fan of religious music (I myself am Byzantine Catholic) especially the varying types of ancient chant,both Eastern (Orthodox) and Western. This CD absolutely blew me away. The best I can describe it is a fusion of sophisticated western polyphony with the Eastern "Greek" tonal style. Absolutely amazing. This is a must have CD!

5 out of 5 stars Truly spiritual.......2000-07-13

The (anonymous) composer(s) use pitches and meters much different than what is typically heard in 16-17th century chant. Listeners don't have to be religious to feel the spirituality and the beauty of this music.

5 out of 5 stars Welcome to the Past.......2000-06-24

I must commend Marcel Peres for his devotion to reviving music in the manner which it was intended. This recording of Corsican Chant is the most convincing and truly uplifting music I have heard in my lifetime... I shall not despair in humanity any longer! Listen to the rich, dense polyphony and clear voices of the traditional singers as they flawlessly reconstruct music of the 16th and 17th centuries. When you open this CD, you will open a time capsule.
Polyphonic Aquitaine of th 12th Century
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Captivating Tunes
  • Good value for your money
Polyphonic Aquitaine of th 12th Century

Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
CDs $7 - $10CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
All Bargain TitlesAll Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
ClassicalClassical | Imports | Stores | Music
$6.99 and Under$6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Le Manuscrit Du Puy - Les Premieres Polyphonies Francaises
  2. Aquitania
  3. Magister Leoninus: Sacred Music from 12th-Century Paris
  4. Ambrosian Chant
  5. Chants de L'Eglise de Rome: Période byzantine

ASIN: B000009Q28
Release Date: 1998-07-14

Tracks:

  1. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Domine Labia Mea Aperies/Deus In Adjutorium Meum - Ens Organium/Marcel Peres
  2. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Christus Natus Est Nobis. Psaume 94 - Ens Organium/Marcel Peres
  3. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Hymne: Christe Redemptor Omnium - Ens Organium/Marcel Peres
  4. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Versus: O Primus Homo Coruit - Gerard Lesne/Josep Benet
  5. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Jube Domine, Puis Lecture: Primo Tempore - Josep Benet/Josep Cabre
  6. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Repons: Hodie - Gerard Lesne
  7. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Prose: Laude Jocunda Melos - Josep Cabre/Philippe Balloy
  8. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Repons: Angelus Ad Pastores - Josep Cabre
  9. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Versus: Veni Solis Radius - Dominique Vellard/Josep Benet
  10. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Lecture: Libri Sapientiae - Gerard Lesne/Philippe Balloy
  11. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Repons: O Magnum Misterium - Dominique Vellard
  12. Extraits Des Matines De Noel: Improvisation Meditative Sur Le Theme 'O Magnum Misterium'... - Ens Organium/Marcel Peres

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Captivating Tunes.......2006-10-31

Astounding harmonies, hypnotic, restful, great echo. I bought this as part of a boxed set and found myself listening to "Aquitane" to the exclusion of the other material. There is something comforting and familiar and strangely accessible. The fourth hymn, "O Primus Homo Coruit," has a particularly appealing melody and engages the mystical in a way comparable to gazing at an elaborate stained glass window. "Jube Domine, Puis Lecture: Primo Tempore" will remind some of the scene in Monty Python & the Holy Grail when the monks chant and strike themselves with their Bibles. I like the first five selections best. Often play as I drift off to sleep.

4 out of 5 stars Good value for your money.......2001-02-22

This CD, containing a selection of 12th century French church choral music, is a good buy. The general style of the music is similar to that of the recently popular Gregorian chants, but with a greater variety of arrangements. The recording includes works for choir, solo voice and duets (all male), and solo organ.

The recording is clear and crisp and the program notes are informative. The Latin text of the music is translated in the notes, however the translation is in French.
Cathedral Dreams: Music to Inspire
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • An Excellent Compilation
Cathedral Dreams: Music to Inspire

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by BarberAll Works by Barber | Barber, Samuel | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Byrd, WilliamByrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by DufayAll Works by Dufay | Dufay, Guillaume | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Górecki, Henryk MikolajGórecki, Henryk Mikolaj | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MachautAll Works by Machaut | Machaut, Guillaume de | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MessiaenAll Works by Messiaen | Messiaen, Olivier | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by PoulencAll Works by Poulenc | Poulenc, Francis | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by PartAll Works by Part | Part, Arvo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by TallisAll Works by Tallis | Tallis, Thomas | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by TavenerAll Works by Tavener | Tavener, John Kenneth | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by RachmaninovAll Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Sacred & ReligiousSacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
Sacred & ReligiousSacred & Religious | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ChantsChants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ChorusesChoruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MagnificatsMagnificats | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MassesMasses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MotetsMotets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
OratoriosOratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Renaissance (c.1450-1600)Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Compilations | New Age | Styles | Music
A CappellaA Cappella | Folk | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Classical Dreams: Music to Inspire
  2. Images of Christ
  3. O Magnum Mysterium

ASIN: B00006I0D1
Release Date: 2002-09-17

Tracks:

  1. Messe De Nostre Dame- Introitus - Machaut
  2. Song For Athene - Tavener
  3. Ave Maria - Rachmaninov
  4. Agnus Dei - Barber
  5. Summa - Part
  6. Ubi Caritas - Durufle
  7. Introitus - Dufay
  8. Requiem- Agnus Dei - Catoire
  9. Salve Regina - Poulenc
  10. Alleluia - Organum
  11. Antienne - Mass Of The Epiphany
  12. O Salutaris Hostia - Villette
  13. Being Risen From The Tomb - Rachmoninov
  14. 7 Magnificat Antiphons- O Weisheit - Part
  15. Diliges Dominum - Byrd
  16. Communio - Dufay
  17. Requiem- Requiem Aeternam - Catoire
  18. Tota Pulchra Es - Durufle
  19. This Day Is Salvation Come - Rachmaninov
  20. O Sacrum Convivium - Messiaen

Tracks:

  1. Totus Tuus - Gorecki
  2. 7 Magnificat Antiphons- O Morgenstern - Part
  3. Tantum Ergo - Darufle
  4. Ave Maria - Palestrina
  5. Blessed Is The Man - Rachmaninov
  6. Adoramus Te, Christe - Stephen Cleobury
  7. Requiem- Libera Me - Catoire
  8. Solfeggio - Part
  9. Beati Mundo Corde - Byrd
  10. O Nata Lux De Lumine - Tallis
  11. Our Father (Notre Pere) - Durufle
  12. Agnus Dei (Missa Papae Marcelli) - David Willcocks
  13. As One Who Has Slept - Tavener
  14. O Magnum Mysterium - Villette
  15. Lux Aeterna - Catoire
  16. Alleluia - Dufay
  17. 7 Magnificat Antiphons- O Immanuel - Part
  18. The Six Psalms - Rachmaninov
  19. Veni Sancta Spiritus - Dudley
  20. Alma Redemptoris Mater - Stephen Cleobury

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars An Excellent Compilation.......2004-06-16

This is probably one of the best compilations of early choral music I have heard, let alone own. A fantastic selection of works, including some modal pieces by composers such as Samuel Barber with his famous "Agnus Dei", creates a very nice variety of complexity. The overall tone of both CDs is very peaceful yet uplifting, and the performers are highly talented and spirited. This is a wonderful and unsurpassed addition to my collection. A must for any lover of early choral works.
A History of Music - Century (volume) 5 - La Naissance de la Polyphonie (The Birth of Polyphony)
Average customer rating: Not rated
    A History of Music - Century (volume) 5 - La Naissance de la Polyphonie (The Birth of Polyphony)

    Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    CompilationsCompilations | Classical | Styles | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Century 1/Various
    2. Ars subtilior: Dawn of the Renaissance
    3. Le siècle de l'Ars nova: A Revolution in the Late Middle Ages
    4. Century 2/Various
    5. Chansons de la Renaissance

    ASIN: B000A6OC58
    Release Date: 2005-11-08

    Tracks:

    1. Domine Labia Mea Aperies/deus In Adjutorium Meum (Choeur) - Ensemble Organum
    2. Versus: O Primus Homo Coruit (A 2 Voix) - Ensemble Organum
    3. Resonemus Hoc Natali - Paul Hillier
    4. Introit Trope : Puer Natus Est - Ensemble Organum
    5. Kyrie - Ensemble Organum
    6. Leonin : Propter Veritatem - Paul Hillier
    7. Perotin : Graduel : Viderunt Omnes/Notum Fecit Dominus - Paul Hillier
    8. In Seculum Longum - Paul Hillier
    9. In Seculum Viellatoris - Paul Hillier
    10. In Seculum Breve - Paul Hillier
    11. In Seculum D'Amiens Longum - Paul Hillier
    12. Puisque Bele dame M'eime/Flos Filius (Mo 231) - Anonymous 4
    13. Ne Sai, Que Je Die/Iohanne (Mo 185) - Anonymous 4
    14. Dame Que Je N'os Noumer/Amis Donc Est/Lonc Tans A (Mo 337) - Anonymous 4
    15. S'on Me Regarde/Prennes I Garde/He, Mi Enfant (Mo 256) - Anonymous 4
    16. Ave Maria Gracia Plena - Anonymous 4
    17. Pia Mater Gratie - Anonymous 4
    18. Ave Nobilis Venerabilis - Anonymous 4
    19. Kyrie : Orbis Factor - Ensemble Organum
    20. Kyrie: Kyria Christifera - Anonymous 4
    21. Gloria - Anonymous 4
    22. Sanctus - Benedictus - Anonymous 4
    23. Agnus Dei : Virtute Numinis - Anonymous 4
    Le siècle de l'Ars nova: A Revolution in the Late Middle Ages
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Le siècle de l'Ars nova: A Revolution in the Late Middle Ages

      Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      All Works by MachautAll Works by Machaut | Machaut, Guillaume de | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      BalladsBallads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
      CompilationsCompilations | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      MadrigalsMadrigals | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      MassesMasses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      MotetsMotets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      Similar Items:
      1. Century 1/Various
      2. Troubadours: Minnesänger and Other Courtly Arts
      3. Ars subtilior: Dawn of the Renaissance
      4. L'émergence de la musique instrumentale
      5. Chansons de la Renaissance

      ASIN: B000ARHNDK
      Release Date: 2005-12-13
      Early Music (Lachrymae Antiquae)
      Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
      • one of their best
      • I loved this CD!
      • Not as early as you might think
      • Pleonastic
      • a good one
      Early Music (Lachrymae Antiquae)

      Manufacturer: Nonesuch
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      QuartetsQuartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
      Cage, JohnCage, John | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by DowlandAll Works by Dowland | Dowland, John | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      Hildegard of BingenHildegard of Bingen | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by MachautAll Works by Machaut | Machaut, Guillaume de | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      Purcell, HenryPurcell, Henry | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by PartAll Works by Part | Part, Arvo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by SchnittkeAll Works by Schnittke | Schnittke, Alfred | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
      Character PiecesCharacter Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Purcell, Henry | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      RequiemsRequiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
      Kronos QuartetKronos Quartet | ( K ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
      Avant Garde & Free JazzAvant Garde & Free Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      MassesMasses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      RequiemsRequiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      More Titles at Least 20% OffMore Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Cage, JohnCage, John | ( C ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Dowland, JohnDowland, John | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Hildegard of BingenHildegard of Bingen | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Machaut, Guillaume deMachaut, Guillaume de | ( M ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Part, ArvoPart, Arvo | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Purcell, HenryPurcell, Henry | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Schnittke, AlfredSchnittke, Alfred | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Cage, JohnCage, John | ( C ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Kronos QuartetKronos Quartet | ( K ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
      Similar Items:
      1. Kronos Quartet : Winter Was Hard
      2. Kronos Caravan
      3. Kronos Quartet
      4. Kronos Quartet: At The Grave of Richard Wagner
      5. Black Angels

      ASIN: B000005J4S
      Release Date: 1997-09-16

      Tracks:

      1. Kyrie I
      2. Rachell's Weepinge
      3. Langdans efter Byfans Mats
      4. Lachrymae Antiqua
      5. Psalom
      6. Two Studies On Ancient Greek Scales: 1. Olympos' Pentatonic - 2. Archytas' Enharmonic
      7. Long-Ge
      8. Totem Ancestor
      9. Kyrie II
      10. Brudmarsch fra Osta
      11. Using The Apostate Tyrant As His Tool
      12. Synchrony No.2
      13. Quodlibet
      14. Viderunt Omnes
      15. Kyrie III
      16. Four Part Fantasia No. 2
      17. O Virtus Sapientie
      18. Uleg-Khem
      19. Farwell My Good I. Forever
      20. Collected Songs Where Every Verse Is Filled With Grief
      21. Requiem Mass: Bells: Tolling Of The Knell

      Amazon.com essential recording

      Don't get too comfortable with this disc's opening minutes, which sound convincingly like a well-tuned consort of viols performing two short pieces by Machaut and Tye. These two works from the 14th and 16th centuries quickly give way to a piece from 1997 by David Lamb. Then come Arvo Part, Harry Partch, John Cage, and even Moondog, a.k.a. Louis Hardin. Additional instruments come and go- -harmonium, bagpipe, zhong ruan, nyckelharpa, drum--all of which complement and enhance the string sounds. Later, we hear music by Hildegard von Bingen, Perotin, and even Purcell. Most of the selections from early composers are arrangements by the Kronos Quartet and others, but it's a tribute to the recording's producers that in spite of the music's diversity, everything works together to make a coherent, cohesive, intellectually, and musically challenging program. --David Vernier

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars one of their best.......2005-04-14

      If you like simple, string quartet music as much as I do, then you've got to listen to this. It is a generous 68 minutes of plaintive music--no discontinuities and surpises like on their Black Angels recording. It is all slow and mournful.

      4 out of 5 stars I loved this CD!.......2002-11-02

      When I was listening to MSN I came across it. I love Early Music and they had a Radio station that was playing it. I decided to listen to it. So as I was lisitening to it I came across the song Collected Songs Where Every Verse Is Filled With Grief. That is the besty song I ever heard in a long time. I like the other songs but this one really spoke to me. It was quite moving if I might say.

      4 out of 5 stars Not as early as you might think.......2000-06-07

      Yes, there is "old" music on this disc. But works in olden style by John Cage, Arvo Part, et al are also present. Quite a challenging program on the listener - but rewarding as well. I am particularly found of Kronos' setting of Alfred Shnittke's "Collected Songs Where Every Verse is Filled With Grief". Very eclectic recording performed with usual finesse of the Kronos Quartet - and some guests.

      3 out of 5 stars Pleonastic.......2000-03-10

      Kronos Quarter has been an agile and versatile instrument in the hands of modern composers. It has (re)interpreted music from many sources in a coherent way, thus creating a very distinctive sound. This album offers a mixed program of composers, juxtaposing the modern and the antique. The thesis of the album is (I think) that early composers are surprisingly palatable to modern sensibilities, and that they are close in spirit to a vast array of contemporary musicians. Also, it seems that the bond linking all these authors is a certain state of affliction; hence the subtitle of the album "lachrymae antiquae", ancient tears. Yet, overall, I found this a pretentious album, even in its use of latin. After so many years of philologically accurate renditions of the early masters, performed on period intruments, the operation of K.Q. sounds at least inappropriate if not even a bit obnoxious. It often seems that they are sacrificing the original intentions of the authors to the altar of this "modernity" thesis. The listener should judge by him/herself.

      Summing up, I would just say that this is first of all a K.Q. album "inspired by" early music. I would just point out that it doesn't add much to the understanding neither of Machaut & co., nor of K.Q., which is still a great ensemble.

      4 out of 5 stars a good one.......1999-12-02

      Who can say, as of now, how much of the music the KQ plays will fall, deservedly or not, by the wayside and how much of it will continue for the ages? At any rate, this CD is rewarding. I like the mix of quirky pieces with the staid, even if the title "Early Music" is misleading (since few original instruments are utilized in this record). Fine work; highly recommended.

      Meditation Music:

      1. Paul's Last Letter
      2. Quiet Fire
      3. Rain Dancer
      4. Re-Works of Art of Noise [Live]
      5. Return of Innocence [EP]
      6. Sax on the Beach
      7. Sentinel [CD-single]
      8. Serart [Enhanced]
      9. Sol Luna Tierra
      10. Songs for a Dreamer

      Meditation Music

      meditation music

      Meditation Music

      Loco [Enhanced] [Explicit Lyrics] [Import]

      Mozart in the Evening

      Rachmaninoff Recital

      Music: Claudia Church

      New: Bpm V.2: Mixed By Future Funk Squad [Import]

      Move Your Feet: The Best of Club Classics

      Metalurgiarte [Import]

      One Path in a Million

      Rock 'N Roll Generation [Import]

      Queen Rocks [Import]

      Mirador

      Live Session at Trama Studios [Live] [Import]

      Mr. Magic's Rap Attack, Vol. 2

      New Orleans Blues Party

      The NuYorican Funk Experience, Vol. 2: Further Adventures in Latin Soul