This CD offers a nice compilation of music for the suffering period (the period before Easter) of Cristóbal de Morales. Morales, who died in 1553, is considered one of the first great Spanish composers. He almost exclusively wrote religious music, especially masses, motets and a requiem. In fact, he almost exclusively wrote works that had a clear liturgical function. This CD also contains motets
… that were heard during Mass or in the Hours of Prayer, such as the Vespers. Morales' religious music is typical of the 16th century, with a fairly dense fabric of voices. La Grande Chapelle is a Spanish ensemble and sings this music in a beautifully clear and expressive way. The famous Emendemus In Melius is a good example. Here we can hear all singers individually, and respond clearly to each other. And this music deserves to be listened to very carefully. (TC)more
