Certon: Chansons

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Renaissance music with Pierre Certon's "Certon: Chansons," released in 1980. This captivating album, brought to life by the renowned Boston Camerata under the direction of Joel Cohen, showcases the exquisite compositions of Pierre Certon, a prominent French composer of the 16th century. Certon, a successor to the legendary Josquin and Mouton, offers a rich tapestry of musical expressions that are both intricate and deeply moving.

The album is a delightful blend of sacred and secular works, featuring a collection of chansons and a complete Mass, "Sus le pont d'Avignon." The chansons, characterized by their lyrical beauty and emotional depth, include pieces like "Je l'ay aimé," "Amour a tort," and "Plus ne suys ce que j'ay esté." These compositions highlight Certon's mastery of polyphony and his ability to convey a wide range of human emotions through music.

The Mass, "Sus le pont d'Avignon," is a stunning example of Certon's sacred music. Divided into five movements—Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei—it showcases the composer's skill in creating harmonically rich and spiritually uplifting music. Each movement is performed with precision and passion, making this Mass a standout piece on the album.

With a total duration of 49 minutes, "Certon: Chansons" is a comprehensive exploration of Certon's musical genius. The album's release on the prestigious Harmonia Mundi label ensures a high-quality listening experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the intricacies of Certon's compositions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Renaissance music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.