The Christian practice of liturgical recitation of sacred texts (also known in other religions, and notably in the context of the Jewish synagogue, from which the Christian tradition most probably originated) has a long and interesting history, that has been described elsewhere. A text was chanted to simple formulae based on a reciting tone with... Continue Reading →
The song that we sing has neither beginning nor end. It is the story of Alpha and Omega, of the Word incarnate, of life and death, of life after death. Our beginning of this tale comes out of nothing and our song will die away into nothing. It is insignificant and small and, what is... Continue Reading →
Today’s chant singer researching a performance practice for late medieval chant is faced with many questions. These include questions concerning language and vocal techniques, such as the proper pronunciation of Latin, use of the voice and pitch; performance practice issues such as rhythm, meter, tempo and phrasing; contextual considerations such as the number and composition... Continue Reading →
Musicians agonize. Whether it be in the performance of a Bach cello suite, a Chopin nocturne, Perotinus’ Viderunt Omnes or any other piece from any other period in music history, the worries are usually big. “Is this the right bowing for the Allemande; should my left hand have a stable tempo in this nocturne, while... Continue Reading →
In het jaar 880 hadden herders in de omgeving van Montserrateen visioen van licht en muziek. In de buurt werd in een grot een beeld van Maria gevonden, dat de bisschop naar een naburige stad liet brengen. Maar onderweg werd het beeld zo zwaar dat het niet meer verplaatsbaar bleek. Op die plek liet... Continue Reading →
Psallentes Oude Muziek 