The Llibre Vermell (Vermilion Book) is among the most treasured artifacts from the medieval Abbey of Montserrat, near Barcelona. Taking its name from its bright red velvet binding, it contains tales of miracles attributed to the Virgin, summaries of church doctrine, and a song book, from which the contents of this album are taken. The songs, in which Western, Judaic, and Moorish influences come together, present a remarkable picture of religious music-making in Spain in the late fourteenth century. The manuscript's diverse ...
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The Llibre Vermell (Vermilion Book) is among the most treasured artifacts from the medieval Abbey of Montserrat, near Barcelona. Taking its name from its bright red velvet binding, it contains tales of miracles attributed to the Virgin, summaries of church doctrine, and a song book, from which the contents of this album are taken. The songs, in which Western, Judaic, and Moorish influences come together, present a remarkable picture of religious music-making in Spain in the late fourteenth century. The manuscript's diverse cultural and musical influences are beautifully illuminated in this recording by Carles Magraner, the Capella de Ministrers, the Cor de la Generalitat Valenciana, and singers Pilar Esteban and Lambert Climent. The Capella's cross-cultural blend of historical instruments, combined with remarkably evocative chanting and vocal solos, creates a vivid picture of the Montserrat monastery -- one that brings to mind not only the sounds, but also the space, smells, and atmosphere of the...
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