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!
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.
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!
Brumel: Earthquake Mass
Brumel's Missa et ecce terrae motus (or "earthquake mass") was so famous in its day that the extant source is a set of part books made by Lassus in 1570, long after Brumel died. Also it's really cool. The link is for the Gloria, but listen to the whole piece if you have the time!
Bach: O Lamm Gottes
Does your week need some Bach? (of course it does). Here you go!
Frei Jacinto do Sacramento
Looking for some fresh 18th-century keyboard repertoire? Check out this piece (and other works) by Frei Jacinto do Sacramento, a Portuguese monk, composer, and keyboardist!
Arcadelt: Il bianco e dolce cigno
Here's a moment of beauty for a summer Monday: Arcadelt's "Il bianco e dolce cigno" (rough translation: the beautiful swan sings and dies fulfilled, and I die happy, also fulfilled, and would be happy to die a thousand times). One of the most popular madrigals of its time!
Machaut: Ma fin est mon commencement
One of my favorite grad school memories was singing this ouroboros of a piece with one of my colleagues and getting to nerd out about how brilliant Machaut was. The notes on the video explain how the form works (reversing lines, switching parts, etc).
Senfl riffs on Mille regretz?
This piece (possibly by Senfl) bears a striking resemblance to Josquin's "Mille regrets" and wouldn't be the first time Senfl borrowed from the master.
Mille Regretz (the recording)
Several years ago I posted a video about Josquin's composition of "Mille regretz" - a song whose entire message is "It's so awful to leave you that I think I'd rather die". But somehow I never actually posted the song! Here it is, somewhat belatedly!