Victoria: Et Jesum, Motets for Solo Voice

Immerse yourself in the sacred and serene world of Tomás Luis de Victoria with this exquisite collection of motets, antiphons, and mass sections, meticulously arranged for countertenor voice. This album, released on Harmonia Mundi in 2010, showcases the profound spiritual depth and musical mastery of the Spanish Renaissance composer. Featuring the ethereal vocals of Carlos Mena, accompanied by Francisco Rubio Gallego on cornet and Juan Carlos Rivera on vihuela, this recording offers a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of medieval and Renaissance choral music.

Spanning a duration of 65 minutes, the album includes 23 tracks that beautifully blend the sacred texts with the composer's intricate polyphony. Highlights include the hauntingly beautiful "Et Jesum," the contemplative "O Decus Apostolicum," and the majestic "Missa O magnum mysterium," each piece resonating with a timeless quality that transcends the centuries. The solo vihuela performances add a unique texture, enriching the overall listening experience with their delicate and evocative sounds.

This album is a testament to the enduring legacy of Tomás Luis de Victoria, offering both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre a profound and moving experience. The meticulous attention to detail in both performance and production ensures that every nuance of Victoria's compositional genius is brought to life, making this a truly unforgettable collection of sacred music.

Tomás Luis de Victoria, born around 1548 in Sanchidrián, Spain, is celebrated as the most renowned Spanish composer of the Renaissance era. His musical journey began as a choirboy in Ávila Cathedral, where he also honed his skills on the keyboard. Victoria's career flourished in both Spain and Italy, and he is revered for his intense and deeply emotional motets, as well as his profound compositions for the Offices of the Dead and Holy Week. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Victoria's extensive body of work is almost exclusively devoted to sacred and polyphonic vocal music, set to Latin texts. His contributions to the Roman Catholic Counter-Reformation are monumental, placing him alongside giants like Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina and Orlande de Lassus. Victoria's legacy endures, inspiring generations with his timeless choral masterpieces.