Music from the 15th Century at around the time of the birth of Mary Quuen of Scots, in the medieval church adjacent to Linlithgow Palace. Experience a captivating tapestry of Litanies, Madrigals and Lamentations, showcasing some of the extraordinary writing of two of the Renaissance’s most famous composers.
The Gesualdo Six is a highly acclaimed British vocal consort. They comprise some of the UK’s finest consort singers, and the ensemble is known for its impeccable standard of performance. They perform widely across the UK and internationally. The group performs a broad-ranging repertoire, from the music of the medieval period through to contemporary compositions.
Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (1525-1594) was one of the most highly acclaimed musicians of the sixteenth century, and wrote a tremendous number of musical works, refining the musical style of the time. His compositions are characterised by a sense of elegance and balance.
In contrast, the writing of notorious composer, Carlo Gesualdo (1566-1613) is well known for its extreme style, with chromatic melodies creating dissonant and disjointed harmonic progressions that illuminate the dark texts he set.
In this programme, The Gesualdo Six explore some of the most beautiful and evocative writing from these two famous composers, featuring sacred works such as the ‘Gloria’ from Missa Papae Marcelli, settings of the Tenebrae Responsories, and profoundly moving motets. The artistry of both composers also finds expression in the intricate interplay of secular and sacred madrigals, weaving narratives both poignant and jubilant.
“With the voices soaring and interweaving high above us, it occurred to me that it was no wonder that in centuries past, congregations sitting in the first gothic cathedrals believed in angels.”