Hildegard von Bingen: Saints

Immerse yourself in the sacred and enchanting world of Hildegard von Bingen, the renowned 12th-century abbess, composer, and visionary, with this captivating album, "Saints." This recording, released in 1998, is a testament to von Bingen's enduring legacy and her profound impact on medieval music and spirituality. The album features a collection of her sacred songs, meticulously performed by the esteemed ensemble Sequentia, led by the late Barbara Thornton and Benjamin Bagby.

"Saints" offers a unique opportunity to experience the divine inspiration and musical genius of Hildegard von Bingen. The album spans a generous 1 hour and 45 minutes, comprising 17 tracks that include antiphons, psalms, sequences, and responsories, all drawn from von Bingen's rich liturgical repertoire. The ensemble's commitment to historical performance practices ensures an authentic and immersive listening experience, transporting you to the sacred spaces where these sacred songs were originally performed.

The album's tracklist is a journey through the sacred and the sublime, with highlights including the antiphons "O magne pater" and "O Bonifaci," the psalms "Domini est terra" and "Domine, Dominus noster," and the sequences "O presul vere civitatis" and "Columba aspexit." Each piece is a testament to von Bingen's unique compositional style, characterized by its soaring melodies, intricate harmonies, and profound spiritual depth.

"Saints" is a labor of love, born out of a deep respect for Hildegard von Bingen's musical and spiritual heritage. The ensemble Sequentia, with their unparalleled expertise in medieval music, brings these sacred songs to life with a level of authenticity and artistry that is truly inspiring. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of medieval music or a newcomer to the world of Hildegard von Bingen, this album is an essential addition to your collection.

Hildegard von Bingen, a multifaceted medieval figure, stands as one of the most remarkable women of the 12th century. Born into a time when women's voices were rarely heard, Hildegard defied conventions to become a Benedictine abbess, composer, writer, and visionary. Her works span a wide array of genres, including religious texts, medical treatises, and musical compositions that blend the ethereal beauty of Gregorian chant with her unique visionary insights. Hildegard's music, characterized by its haunting melodies and profound spiritual depth, continues to captivate audiences today. Beyond her musical contributions, Hildegard's writings on natural healing, ethics, and cosmology reveal her as a pioneering scientist and philosopher. Her boldness extended to her correspondence with powerful figures, including a stern letter to Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, urging him to govern more wisely. Hildegard von Bingen's legacy endures as a testament to her extraordinary intellect, creativity, and spiritual fervor, making her a timeless inspiration for seekers of wisdom and beauty.