Recorded in the church of Saint-Martin de Hoff, Sarrebourg, France, July 2007
Playing time : 63:13 DDD
The music of Nicholas Ludford has been discovered only relatively recently.This CD of a cappella music was recorded in the glorious acoustic of St Martin de Hoff on the outskirts of Sarrebourg, a perfect environment for this extraordinary 16th century music. It includes the Missa benedicta et venerabilis with plainsong propers and the votive anthems Domine Jesu Christe and Ave cuius conceptio.
Reviews
"
Ludford (died 1557) might not have the fame of Taverner or Tallis, but he’s still a master composer in a turbulent period for English music. The melodies soar; sophisticated harmonies surprise; and varied textures refresh long stretches of polyphony. A six-part Mass, Missa Benedicta et Venerabilis, is framed by two joyful antiphons. Edward Higginbottom’s choir projects with love, precision, and that special sweet, English ringing tone. "
The Times, 4/4/08
"
The long wait to hear the music of the forgotten Nicholas Ludford (1485-1557) is amply rewarded on this CD by the Choir of New College, Oxford, under Edward Higginbottom. Ludford worked at St Stephen”s Chapel in the Palace of Westminster and is buried at St Margaret’s Westminster next to the Abbey. His extant works include the Missa Benedicta, which Higginbottom conducts with due power and passion. The boys’ rich tone and emphatic delivery suggest no cowering in the face of reform. The polyphony consists of bold confident lines and inventive word setting that makehim at least the equal of his contemporary John Taverner. A must for all lovers of choral music."
Classic FM Review, June 2008
"
...here [the New College trebles] show how much young singers can achieve in the way of cohesiveness, coherence and sheer persuasiveness of melodic shape. More please."
The Gramophone
"
Performances are exemplary...and show New College on the top of its form. ...a stunning set of trebles."
***** Goldberg Early Music Magazine
"
A must for lovers of choral music."
***** Classic FM Magazine
