New York Polyphony and LeStrange Viols, two ensembles prized for their early-music performances, here connect contemporary composers with Renaissance masters, a pairing at once mysterious and familiar.
Sky of my Heart: New Sounds for Old Instruments Read More »
A new book asks ‘whose music matters?’ and critiques the conventional music history curriculum, including well-meaning but hollow additions for the mere sake of inclusion. Even traditional subjects like early music, the author writes, ‘can be taught in diverse, ethical ways.’
On Teaching Inclusive Music History Read More »
The Brabant Ensemble, known for exploring lesser known choral works from the 16th century, has released another strong album with some familiar names and several that come as a revelation, with Sebastian Ertel’s stunning ‘Aeterno laudanda choro’ among them.
The Imagined Life Journey of a Monk, in Music Read More »
In colonial New Spain, villancios were a poetic and musical tool for religious instruction and conversion. Across the centuries, the form was shaped to appeal to a broad audience, as fun music for Christmas. Colombian ensemble Música Ficta’s latest release is a musical and scholarly delight.
Teaching Through Delight: the Villancicos of Bogotá Read More »
The world premiere recording of ‘Venus y Adonis’ by José de Nebra, shows the composer as one of the great masters of the Spanish Baroque. He blends the Italianate opera styles prevalent in his day with the seguidilla, the fandango, and, at his best, a rare melodic gift.
Love and Jealousy from the Spanish Baroque Read More »
