July 20, 2010
Music for Compline
From the label: On its spectacular debut recording, the exciting young British vocal group stile antico presents a program of English Renaissance music associated with the office of Compline, the service that ends the monastic liturgical day. A who’s-who of 16th-century British composers–including Thomas Tallis, William Byrd, and John Sheppard–is represented here by hymns, antiphons, responsories, motets, and psalms: the occasion not only for music of intimacy, elegance, and reflect. . . More >>
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Comments on Music for Compline
11:50 am
As much as I enjoy the choral music of the 16th and 17th centuries, I usually listen to it in short doses, taken far apart.
This disk by Stile Antico is different, however. When it first arrived, I played it through twice, and I have listened to it frequently since then. Everything about the performance seems right to me: the group’s diction is excellent, balance is near perfect, the acoustics of the hall have just the right amount of reverberation, and most important, there is a compelling warmth and sincerity. This group will give the Tallis Scholars a real run for their money.
Rating: 5 / 5
2:39 pm
This type of music resonates with me very much for some reason. I have no other music like it. . . I happened to here this music on NPR News after work on a 30min drive, and it helped me release all tension built from the day. After I have listened to it, I still here the angelic voices still signing. This is not Gregorian chant, I believe it’s 16th century “church” music in latin. Yet still sounds amazing.
Rating: 5 / 5
4:19 pm
The CD is worth purchasing for track #10 alone (Tallis’ Miserere Nostris)– By far the most sublime and etheral recording on this album, although the entire album is very well produced.
Rating: 4 / 5
6:49 pm
This music is truly a gift to the soul. Very relaxing, very calming. Well worth it.
Rating: 5 / 5
8:29 pm
I put this music on when I’m doing the dishes or relaxing at night. It’s so soothing and easy to meditate to.
Rating: 5 / 5