If you’re in Europe, hoping to hear a deluxe celebration of Palestrina’s 500th birthday, go to the Duomo in Milan. In North America, the biggest Palestrina 2025 party will be in Grand Rapids, Mich., where an ambitious Catholic church will host a dozen ensembles, from the Tallis Scholars and Gesualdo Six to their own parish choirs — and all of it sung at regular Mass services.
The Big Event for Palestrina 500 is in Grand Rapids Read More »
Influential at the Bavarian court in the 16th century, Ludwig Daser and his music were overshadowed by his posthumously more celebrated contemporaries. But Daser’s lyrical gifts and structural innovations are gaining adherents, including the pan-European vocal ensemble Cinquecento. Their latest recording capture all the tension and exuberance of this remarkable music.
Cinquecento Revive Ludwig Daser’s Legacy Read More »
The great recorder virtuoso, conductor, and early-music pioneer Frans Brüggen died a decade ago, but his legacy remains strong. One of today’s brightest stars borrowed rare instruments from Brüggen’s collection. With limited time on fragile instruments, she plays to each of their strengths, often with ‘breath-taking intimacy.’
Celebrating Frans Brüggen’s Rare Recorders Read More »
At the 2024 EMA Summit, countertenor Michael Walker II, viol player Philip Spray, and Alchymy Viols gave a presentation called ‘Deep River.’ One day, while rehearsing a famous spiritual, writes Walker, ‘it reminded me of the viola da gamba in its ability to convey both sadness and joy.’
Deep River Spirituals: America’s ‘Broken Consort’ Songs Read More »
Medieval ensemble Trobár celebrates women in 14th and 15th c. song, centered on poet Christine de Pizan and her musical circles, including (male) composers who are now famous, obscure or anonymous. It’s a “he said/she said” dialogue on love, equality, and courtly virtues.
He Said/She Said in French Courtly Love Read More »
