Ludford: Missa Christi virgo dilectissima; Domine Ihesu Christe

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and serene world of Nicholas Ludford's "Missa Christi virgo dilectissima; Domine Ihesu Christe," a masterful choral work that stands as a testament to the composer's profound musical and spiritual insight. Released in 1994 under the Decca (UMO) label, this album is a captivating journey through the rich traditions of Gregorian chant and Renaissance polyphony.

The album features the renowned ensemble The Cardinall's Musick, conducted by Andrew Carwood, delivering a performance of unparalleled beauty and precision. The centerpiece of the album is the "Missa Christi virgo dilectissima," a six-voice polyphonic setting of the Ordinary of the Mass, showcasing Ludford's intricate and harmonically rich compositional style. The album also includes the motet "Domine Ihesu Christe" and the responsory "Christi virgo dilectissima," further highlighting Ludford's mastery of vocal writing and his deep reverence for the sacred texts he sets to music.

Spanning a duration of just over an hour, the album is a profound exploration of faith and devotion, offering a deeply moving and spiritually uplifting listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. Nicholas Ludford's "Missa Christi virgo dilectissima; Domine Ihesu Christe" is a timeless treasure that continues to resonate with audiences today, a testament to the enduring power of sacred music.

1 januari 1994

℗ 1994 ASV Ltd.

About Nicholas Ludford

Nicholas Ludford, a luminary of the Tudor period, stands as one of the most captivating yet often overlooked composers of English choral music. Born around 1485, Ludford's legacy is most notably preserved in his magnificent festal masses, which are beautifully archived in the Caius Choirbook at Caius College, Cambridge, and the Lambeth Choirbook at Lambeth Palace, London. His compositions, characterized by their intricate polyphony and spiritual depth, offer a profound glimpse into the sacred music of the Renaissance era. Ludford's life was deeply rooted in the religious institutions of his time, with his career spanning Westminster Abbey and St. Stephen's Royal Collegiate Chapel. Despite his brilliance, Ludford's works remained relatively obscure until the rediscovery of his antiphons in the Peterhouse partbooks, which were unearthed in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, his music continues to enchant audiences with its timeless beauty and spiritual resonance, making Nicholas Ludford a composer whose works are not just heard, but truly experienced.