La Rue: Mass of the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin / Missa Pascale

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and hauntingly beautiful world of medieval choral music with Pierre de la Rue's "La Rue: Mass of the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin / Missa Pascale." Released in 2000 by Naxos, this album is a profound exploration of the requiem and choral genres, showcasing de la Rue's mastery of polyphonic composition.

The album features two complete masses: the "Missa de septem doloribus" (Mass of the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin) and the "Missa pascale" (Easter Mass). Each piece is meticulously crafted, reflecting the deep spiritual and emotional depth of the texts they accompany. The "Missa de septem doloribus" is particularly poignant, focusing on the sorrows of the Virgin Mary, while the "Missa pascale" celebrates the joy and renewal of Easter.

Performed by the renowned Ars Antiqua de Paris under the direction of Michel Sanvoisin, the album's 12 tracks offer a rich tapestry of sound, blending intricate vocal harmonies with a sense of solemnity and reverence. The duration of the album is 1 hour and 14 minutes, providing a comprehensive and immersive listening experience.

Pierre de la Rue, a prominent composer of the Renaissance period, is known for his innovative use of polyphony and his ability to convey deep emotional and spiritual themes through his music. This album is a testament to his enduring legacy and the timeless beauty of medieval choral music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating journey into the sacred and the sublime.

July 30, 2000

2000 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.