Clear or Cloudy

I've been on a Dowland deep dive these past few weeks, including this piece I first learned in grad school!

Can she excuse my wrongs?

Apparently there's quite a bit of Dowland I've loved but never actually shared! This one is one of my faves, and this version features some of the best division/ornamentation I've heard!

Now, o now I needs must part

I came across this lovely piece this week and was shocked to discover I haven't shared it yet! One of the most gorgeous of all Dowland's four part madrigals (originally printed for SATB).

Sweet Bird

Need some birdsong in your life? The best moment from this past weekend's "L'Allegro" concerts was definitely this aria. You (sadly) can't go back and hear Joelle and Joe on this fantastic duet, but here's an excellent recording!

Handel and German Chorales

The opening of the final chorus of Handel's "L'Allegro" seemed awfully familiar last night during rehearsal... turns out it's the same opening as the chorale tune "Jesu meine Freude"! If you want to hear it, come to Handel and Haydn Society's concerts on Friday and Sunday (and hit me up if you want a discount/comp ticket)!

Salamone Rossi: Sonata quarta sopra l'aria die Ruggiero

I have a very nerdy obsession with variations on a ground, and this boisterous set by Salamone Rossi was a perfect way to start the week. Sending gratitude to all my Jewish friends, and may your fast be easy.

Hildegard's cookies of joy

Did you know Hildegard von Bingen made cookies?! For happiness?! Tasting History makes an appearance on #EarlyMusicMonday to talk about medieval cookies and Hildegard!

Imitation Masses

Copying another composer's work was generally frowned upon... unless you were writing a mass setting! Early Music Sources walks through the compositional techniques used to create an imitation mass, whether the chosen subject was suitable for church or not!

Brumel's Requiem

Brumel's Earthquake Mass wasn't his only hit! His setting of the requiem mass (for 4 voices) is GORGEOUS! Here's the Sanctus movement, but be sure to listen to the others as well!