Search - Students' Choir Utrecht, Students' Chamber Choir Utrecht, Pierre de la Rue :: Officium tenebrarum: Gregorian chants by Pierre de la Rue, Johannes Gardano, Bernardus Yeart

This is a deeply moving recording of Gregorian chants. Officium Tenebrarum is the name of the musical liturgy to be sung before Easter, the First Nocturne of the Night Office for Holy Saturday, frequently celebrated during the darkness of Good Friday. The Paschal Vigil was the most important event within the early Latin liturgy. Most of the Gregorian chants recorded here are sung in their original plainsong version, dating back to the first centuries of the Christian era. In fact, these chants incorporate thematic elements derived from the Jewish synagogue. Several sections are polyphonic, a later development within Gregorian chant. Officium Tenebrarum is beautifully performed by the Students' Choir Utrecht and the Students' Chamber Choir Utrecht. The chants themselves were written, probably during the 15th and 16th centuries, by three musicians: Pierre de la Rue, Johannes Gardano and Bernardus Ycart. Comprehensive liner notes included in both the compact disk and cassette highlight these musicians and explain the background of Gregorian chants within the Catholic Church. This inspiring work is an enriching experience for listeners of all cultures in any season. It is truly a timeless performance that moves the heart and soul.