Palestrina: Lamentations for Easter II

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the profound and sacred sounds of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina's "Lamentations for Easter II," a masterful collection of choral works that transport you to the heart of the Easter season. Released in 2019, this album is a testament to Palestrina's enduring legacy as one of the most influential composers of the Renaissance era.

Spanning 47 minutes, the album is a meticulous arrangement of Palestrina's Lamentations, a series of choral settings based on the Biblical Book of Lamentations. The album is divided into three sections, each corresponding to the liturgical days of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Each section is further divided into lections, or readings, and individual verses, providing a structured and contemplative listening experience.

The album features a total of 73 tracks, each one a short, poignant utterance that builds upon the next to create a cohesive and moving musical narrative. The choral performances are characterized by their clarity, precision, and deep reverence, showcasing the intricate polyphony and harmonic richness that Palestrina is renowned for.

Recorded by the esteemed Westminster Cathedral Choir and released under the Hyperion label, this album is a celebration of Palestrina's timeless compositions and their enduring relevance in the world of sacred music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, "Lamentations for Easter II" offers a deeply enriching and spiritually uplifting experience.

November 1, 2019

℗ 2019 Hyperion Records Limited

About Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, a titan of late Renaissance music, stands as the quintessential representative of the Roman School, alongside Orlande de Lassus and Tomás Luis de Victoria. Born around 1525 in Palestrina, near Rome, Palestrina's compositions, including over 105 masses and 250 motets, have echoed through centuries, embodying the pinnacle of sacred polyphonic perfection. His mastery of counterpoint and modal harmony not only defined the Roman Catholic Church's musical landscape during the Counter-Reformation but also influenced the broader development of Western music. Palestrina's works, characterized by their clarity and emotional depth, continue to inspire and captivate audiences, making him an enduring figure in the world of classical music.