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This disc marks the beginning of an ambitious long-term project to discover the sacred vocal works of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina. The masses and motets from this volume are mostly for the Feast of the Assumption, although there are also settings from the Song of Songs. The centrepiece of the recording is the Missa Assumpta est Maria, parodied after the six-part motet (also included on this disc).
The Sixteen consistently show themselves to be a choir of impeccable standards, and this latest offering is no exception. The singing is beautifully transparent throughout; the ensemble is perfect and the diction crystal clear. A particular highlight is the ‘Ave Maria’, set for five voices with two cantus parts; the soaring upper voices lend the motet a heavenly quality, and it makes an excellent conclusion to a magnificently ethereal recording. The Song of Songs motets are also a ...
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Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina: Missa Assumpta est Maria; Salve Regina; Ave Regina
The Sixteeen; with Harry Christophers

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CORO16091 64’10 minutes