Orlande de Lassus: Requiem a 5; Motets
Lassus’ five-part setting of the Requiem is rarely heard; here it is recorded with brass for the first time, the sombre colours of the sackbuts further darkening the tone. Interweaving a number of motets, some also receiving first recordings, and a madrigal on death by one of Lassus’ contemporaries in an organ transcription, this innovative programme takes the listener on a spiritual journey, through the darkness of bereavement to the elevation of the Christian soul after death.
The Choir of Girton College, Cambridge (Tracks 1-4, 6-10, 12-14, 17)
Historic Brass of the Guildhall, London
(Jeremy West, leader) (Tracks 2-8, 10, 12-14, 17)
Lucy Morrell, organ (Tracks 3, 4, 6-8, 10-13, 16, 17)
Gareth Wilson, director
Listen To This Recording:
- Plainchant: Ego sum resurrection
- Tristis est Anima mea **
- I Requiem aeternam
- II Kyrie eleison
- Peccata mea Domine *
- III Absolve Domine
- IV Domine Jesu Christe
- V Hostias
- Fratres Sobrii Estote *
- VI Sanctus – Benedictus
- Weep, O Mine Eyes **
- VII Agnus Dei
- VIII Lux Aeterna
- Exaudi Domine Vocem Meam **
- Adoramus te Christe
- Margot Labourez les Vignes
- Levavi Oculos Meos *
Requiem a 5**
Requiem a 5
Piano Quintet No. 2 (1999)
Requiem a 5
John Bennett arr. Wilson:
Requiem a 5
* First Recordings
** First Recordings in this Version
Planet Hugill :
‘This disc is a notable achievement, and the combination of choir and brass really lifts the choral music.’
—Robert Hugill, Planet Hugill
MusicWeb International :
‘What makes this disc so compelling is its plan with the Requiem being split up around the recording and divided by appropriate motets some of which are being played just on brass others sung with the brass. […]
The ‘Historic Brass of the Guildhall’ consisting of cornetts and sackbuts, are new to me but they make a sonorous and beautifully balanced noise especially when accompanying the choir. The motets work most strikingly for them.’
—Gary Higginson, MusicWeb International
The Trombonist :
‘With direction from Gareth Wilson, a 5-piece brass ensemble made up of musicians from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama connects each work and supports the magnificent voices of Girton College Choir. The penultimate track, amongst others, highlights the great skill of Girton’s Organ Scholar, Lucy Morrell. […]
This selection of Lassus’ motets shows the full variety of his style and confirms why he went on to be known as of the most diverse composers of the Renaissance. […]
This brass playing is expressive and effortlessly supports the voices. Vocal interest is carried throughout the programme, even the instrumental numbers show such careful consideration of the text. This is outstanding playing, especially from the ensemble’s leader, cornettist Jeremy West. […]
This ensemble forms a very interesting colour, displaying a sometimes hauntingly close connection between voice and instrument. This is a celebration of vocal music through fine brass playing and distinguished singing. Together they make for a satisfying listen.’
—Jane Salmon, The Trombonist
Xpressing Music :
‘A interpretação de The Choir of Girton College, Cambridge é globalmente sólida […].’
—Tiago Manuel da Hora, Xpressing Music