Around 1600, a new wind was blowing through Central Europe. Ideas travelled northwards from Venice: polychorality, gorgeous timbres and musical flair breathed new life into Franco-Flemish counterpoint. Hans Leo Hassler absorbed this Venetian glow from Andrea Gabrieli and transmuted it into an elegant, transparent style in Nuremberg. Jacob Handl was also inspired by the Venetian style. He was born in Slovenia and worked, among others, for the Austrian Emperor and the Bishop of Olomouc. New York Polyphony – an ensemble acclaimed around the world for its rich, natural sound and superior musicianship – shows how the two composers combined southern panache with northern depth. A mosaic of motets and psalms.
Program
H.L. Hassler: Missa super Dixit Maria | Laudate Dominum omnes gentes | Ave maris stella | J. Handl: Regem natum | Surge propera and more
Performers
Geoffrey D. Williams, countertenor | Steven Caldicott Wilson, Andrew Fuchs, tenor | Craig Phillips, bass-baritone