Palestrina, Westminster Cathedral Choir, Martin Baker - Missa Dum Complerentur

Monday 1st September 2003
Palestrina, Westminster Cathedral Choir, Martin Baker - Missa Dum Complerentur
Palestrina, Westminster Cathedral Choir, Martin Baker - Missa Dum Complerentur

STYLE: Choral
RATING 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 7950-
LABEL: Hyperion CDA67353
FORMAT: CD Album

Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina was a prolific composer, living from 1525 to 1594. This disc is based on the theme of Pentecost. The title track, “Dum Complerentur” from 1569, evokes the Bible story using voices to depict the rushing wind as the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Apostles with repeated “Alleluias” suggesting the Spirit “blowing where it listeth.” Palestrina must have been happy with this piece as he used it as the basis for a Mass (“Missa Dum Complerentur”) that follows in this collection. The composer seems to be trying new ideas and developing new techniques in much the way that a firework throws out sparks. The result is spectacular and sung exceedingly well by Westminster Cathedral Choir. The collection ends with six more Whitsuntide pieces that should not be considered as “filler”. All are worth hearing and, as is appropriate for the theme, all are uplifting.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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