Josquin Masses - Missa Hercules Dux Ferrarie, Missa D'ung aultre amer & Missa Faysant regretz - Josquin des Prez

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Renaissance polyphony with Josquin des Prez's exquisite mass settings, meticulously performed by The Tallis Scholars under the direction of Peter Phillips. Released on the prestigious Gimell label, this album presents three of Josquin's most celebrated masses: the intricate and innovative "Missa Hercules Dux Ferrarie," the homage-filled "Missa D'ung aultre amer," and the contrapuntally rich "Missa Faysant regretz."

Spanning a little over an hour, this album offers a profound exploration of Josquin's masterful compositional techniques and his enduring influence on Western music. The "Missa Hercules Dux Ferrarie" showcases Josquin's ingenuity, with its complex canonic writing and clever use of motifs, while the "Missa D'ung aultre amer" pays tribute to his teacher, Johannes Ockeghem, through its incorporation of Ockeghem's secular song. The "Missa Faysant regretz," meanwhile, demonstrates Josquin's skill in crafting intricate, yet accessible, polyphony.

Recorded with the characteristic clarity and warmth that Gimell is known for, this album allows listeners to fully appreciate the subtleties and nuances of Josquin's writing. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. With its blend of technical virtuosity, spiritual depth, and sheer musical beauty, this collection of Josquin masses is an essential addition to any classical music library.

October 30, 2020

2020 Gimell

About Josquin des Prez

Josquin des Prez, born circa 1450, stands as one of the most celebrated composers of the High Renaissance, renowned for his profound influence on 16th-century European music. Hailing from what is now considered the Franco-Flemish region, Josquin's compositions are a testament to his mastery of polyphony, where multiple independent voices weave together in intricate, expressive movements. His work is characterized by a deep connection between text and music, moving away from lengthy melismatic lines to shorter, repeated motifs that enhance the emotional impact of his vocal pieces.

Josquin's repertoire spans masses, motets, and secular chansons, each piece reflecting his innovative approach to harmony and counterpoint. Often hailed as the "Beethoven of the Renaissance," his style set the standard for vocal music of his time, earning him the title of "master of the notes" from none other than Martin Luther. Whether you're exploring his sacred works or his secular compositions, engaging with Josquin des Prez's music is an immersive journey into the heart of Renaissance polyphony, where every note tells a story.