Today brings to an end my time exploring the works of Thomas Tallis. Thanks to the good folks at Brilliant Classics, I’ve learned quite a bit about this ancient composer. The main thing I learned is that I’m not a fan of the very late Mr. Tallis. Oh, I appreciate his place in music history … [Read more…]
Today’s CD (“The Lamentations and Contrafacta”) is an interesting blend of vocal music that’s varied enough not to sound too similar. Plus, the lyrics are as spiritually nourishing and as liturgical as anything I’ve ever heard. The female vocalists are especially on display in today’s recording. Terrifically moving and uplifting. I’m going to violate my … [Read more…]
We woke up to snow on our cars this morning, which – under normal circumstances – wouldn’t have been a surprise. But the winter we’ve been having, with temperatures in the 50s and upper 60s, it was a shock. But, the troopers that we are, we just brushed off our car and hightailed it to … [Read more…]
Today’s CD is another fascinating, but aurally tiring delight. Titled, “Music For a Reformed Church,” CD 6 of the Thomas Tallis box set by Brilliant Classics is another slice of history that I believe everyone should hear at least once in their lives. Once again, the liner notes (this time written by John Morehen in … [Read more…]
My mood today mirrors the overcast skies here in West Michigan. And Thomas Tallis isn’t helping matters much. I’ve discovered that a little Tallis goes a very long way. However, by Day 5 CD 5, I’ve experienced a lot of Tallis. The cumulative result of a lot of Tallis is that it all sounds the … [Read more…]
This morning, whilst I munch on my sesame see bagel with chive and onion cream cheese, and drink my Light Roast coffee with cinnamon and honey in it, I find myself listening to “Music for the Divine Office I,” which is CD 4 of the 10-CD box set from Brilliant Classics. Despite the impeccable performances … [Read more…]
Day 3 of my exploration of The Complete Works of Thomas Tallis brings me to a CD titled “Music for Queen Mary.” For background on Tallis and today’s recording, I turn to a brief excerpt from the superb liner notes, this installment written by Nick Sandon on 12 October 1997. All of the works by … [Read more…]
It’s hard to believe this weather. Yesterday topped out around 70 degrees, which have been a new record for this date in the Great Lake State. Today – even though it started with heavy rain during the wee hours that tapered off into a drizzle this morning – promises to reach 51 degrees by mid … [Read more…]
This morning, when I sallied forth to a nearby Panera restaurant, it was 7:15, the temperature was a surprisingly pleasant (especially for Michigan in early March!) 50 degrees, and the sun was just about to rise. I had no idea what to expect from Thomas Tallis. The only time I’d ever heard his name was … [Read more…]