Kuhnau's setting of "Tristis set anima mea" is gorgeous (and on a concert I'm singing next weekend), but Lassus' version is my favorite. Extra points if you follow the translation (in the description box) and catch how Lassus used the music to emphasize the meaning of the words!
Purcell Trumpet Tune
The trumpet tune you thought of last week? The other one? This one is by Purcell (and was the recessional at my wedding)!
Jeremiah Clarke
You know that trumpet thing that gets played at weddings? No, not that one. The other one. Here's who actually wrote it! ... and as a spoiler alert, he met with a dramatic end by his own hand.
Mass in G minor
This fantastic piece by Bach is still ringing in my head from a glorious concert with The Bach Project on Saturday evening! (This is not our recording, sadly).
Count von Sporck
In writing program notes for next weekend's concert with The Bach Project, I came across this important figure who may or may not have been the intended recipient of Bach's four "Lutheran Masses"! Meet Count Frantisek Antonin von Sporck!
Easter and the women
I'm reflecting on this Easter Monday about how much gorgeous Renaissance music for Easter is about the women coming to the tomb... like this beautiful piece by Taverner for Easter Day.
Harriett Abrams
Meet Harriett Abrams! She studied with Thomas Arne, who composed an opera specifically for her. She participated in festivals of Handel's music, and Haydn accompanied her on the piano! She also composed her own pieces, and appeared in concerts organized by Johann Peter Salomon.
Salvator mundi
John Blow was Henry Purcell's teacher and had a tremendous career in sacred music, including positions in the Chapel Royal, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Cathedral, and St. Margarets Westminster. I came across his "Salvator Mundi" setting yesterday and had to share!
Tye: Sub tuam protectionem
Sometimes you just need to listen to some gorgeous Tye (courtesy of Cinquecento)!
Sara Levy
It's the time of year when questions about Bach and anti-semitism (rightfully) swirl and answers are in short supply. By way of adding to the chaos, meet Sara Levy - a Jewish harpsichordist who studied with one of Bach's sons, was great-aunt to Felix Mendelssohn, and was instrumental in ensuring the legacy of the Bach family.