The Tenebrae consort present a programme representing the daily duties of a singer in a Medieval English Cathedral from late afternoon until dusk. The hypnotic rhythm of antiphonal psalms, the familiarity of ancient hymns and the tranquillity of unaccompanied plainsong processions allow us to appreciate the beauty of this timeless music. Tallis’ intensely moving Lamentations of Jeremiah is programmed alongside medieval chant to highlight a stark contrast in style as one hears Tallis’ contrapuntal textures against the simplistic beauty of Gregorian chant.

“The singing of the gentle psalms is hypnotically pure” – The Observer
“The consort sings with a beautifully rich, smooth and rounded tone, giving the chant a fine combination of strength and flexibility” – Planet Hugill

Programme

John Sheppard – In manus tuas I
Gregorian Chant – Pange lingua gloriosi, Compline
Thomas Tallis – If ye love me
Tallis – Hear the voice and prayer
Sheppard – In manus tuas II
Tallis – Lamentations of Jeremiah I
Gregorian Chant – In monte Oliveti
Tallis – Lamentations of Jeremiah II
Gregorian Chant – Tristis est anima mea
William Blitheman – In pace in idipsum

Artist(s)

Nigel Short, Tenebrae Consort