Marc’Antonio Ingegneri, Part 6

NOTE: All of the music on this program comes from recordings on the Toccata Classics label with the Choir of Girton College, Cambridge directed by Gareth Wilson. Volume 6 is CD # TOCC 0801.

The Cremonese composer Marc’Antonio Ingegneri (c. 1535/36–92) is chiefly remembered as the teacher of Claudio Monteverdi while, for well-nigh 500 years, his own achievements were left to sit in the shadows. In this sixth album the Choir of Girton College, Cambridge, continues its pioneering exploration of the music of the Italian Renaissance master, Marc'Antonio Ingegneri (c.1535/36-92) with a programme exploring in music Christ's relationship with his disciples - twelve motets, symbolising the twelve disciples, framing the five-voice Missa Kyrie Secundi Toni, all in their first recordings. These further discoveries confirm Ingegneri's position as one of the masters of his age, writing music as expressive and moving as his better-known contemporaries Palestrina and Lassus - and just as individual.

Choir of Girton College, Cambridge

The Western Wyndes
Jeremy West, leader
Gareth Wilson, director

From Choir & Organ: They’ve done to again: a triumphant sixth album of world premiere recordings takes the listener back to Cremona’s Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta and Ingegneri’s musical ingenuity. In a devotionally intelligent programme, twelve motets represent ideals of discipleship, framing sections of the Mass. The large choir exudes engagement, understanding and enthusiasm, amply supported by the cornetts and sackbuts of The Western Wynde. Wilson’s sensitive employment of the brass is exemplified by the Credo as changes of timbre indicate the sections according to Renaissance theology. 

A wonderful variety of moods and tempi are well sustained and balanced. These recordings will delight all who enjoy brass with voices and appreciate the original purpose of these works to connect earth with heaven.