La Rue: Missa Nuncqua fue pena mayor & Missa Inviolata

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and serene world of Renaissance polyphony with Pierre de la Rue's "Missa Nuncqua fue pena mayor & Missa Inviolata." This exquisite album, released on September 2, 2016, under the Hyperion label, showcases the masterful compositional skills of Pierre de la Rue, a leading figure of the Franco-Flemish school. The Brabant Ensemble, under the direction of Stephen Rice, delivers a stunning performance that highlights the intricate beauty and spiritual depth of de la Rue's music.

The album features two complete masses, the "Missa Nuncqua fue pena mayor" and the "Missa Inviolata," along with the enchanting "Magnificat sexti toni" and the devotional "Salve Regina VI." Each piece is a testament to de la Rue's ability to weave complex vocal lines into a harmonious tapestry, creating a sense of unity and reverence.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of de la Rue's sacred music. The choral performances are impeccable, showcasing the ensemble's technical prowess and deep understanding of Renaissance vocal style. The "Kyrie" and "Agnus Dei" movements are particularly noteworthy, demonstrating de la Rue's mastery of expressive and contemplative settings.

For fans of medieval and choral music, this album is a treasure trove of historical and musical significance. The meticulous attention to detail in both the composition and performance makes this a standout release in the genre. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance music or a newcomer to the genre, "Missa Nuncqua fue pena mayor & Missa Inviolata" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

September 2, 2016

℗ 2016 Hyperion Records Limited

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.