La Rue: Magnificats / 3 Salve Reginas

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and intricate world of Pierre de la Rue with his captivating album "La Rue: Magnificats / 3 Salve Reginas." This 2007 release on the Naxos label is a treasure trove of medieval choral music, showcasing the composer's mastery of the requiem and choral genres. The album spans a substantial 1 hour and 42 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of seven of La Rue's surviving Magnificats and three of his six settings of the Salve Regina.

Pierre de la Rue, a contemporary of Josquin des Pres, brings a unique voice to the early Renaissance period. His compositions, as heard in this album, are a testament to his skill and creativity. The Magnificats, each in a different tone, are interspersed with antiphons and Salve Regina settings, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both devotional and deeply moving. The album's standout tracks include the hauntingly beautiful "Sancta Maria succurre miseris" and the powerful "O quam gloriosum est regnum."

This album is not just a collection of tracks but a journey through the spiritual and musical landscape of the medieval era. The performances by VivaVoce, led by Peter Schubert, are impeccable, bringing out the full depth and nuance of La Rue's compositions. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of medieval music or a newcomer looking to explore this rich tradition, "La Rue: Magnificats / 3 Salve Reginas" is an essential addition to your music library.

August 1, 2007

2007 Naxos

About Pierre de la Rue

Pierre de la Rue, born around 1460, was a renowned Franco-Flemish composer and singer of the Renaissance, celebrated for his significant contributions to the polyphonic style that flourished in the Netherlands around 1500. A contemporary of the legendary Josquin des Prez, de la Rue's music was highly prized at the Habsburg-Burgundian court, where he served as the pre-eminent composer under Duke Philip 'the Fair' of Burgundy. His compositions, which include the influential 'Missa pro defunctis' — one of the earliest polyphonic settings of the requiem — showcase his mastery of choral and sacred music. De la Rue's work is a testament to the rich musical heritage of the late fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries, making him a pivotal figure in the history of Renaissance music.