CHORAL WORKS, VOL. 1

Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck (1562-1621) is one of the few composers of the Northern Netherlands who enjoyed an international reputation. Even during his lifetime, he attracted students from far and wide, who came to learn from him, copy his music and adopt his style. On returning to their native countries, they would not only take back a pile of Sweelinck’s compositions but also a deep respect for this modest ‘Orpheus of Amsterdam’.

Sweelinck undertook and completed the massive effort of composing musical settings for all 150 Psalms, using the rhymed French-language versions by Marot and De Bèze. In both the Psalms and Cantiones Sacrae he demonstrates a deep knowledge of the major French and Italian compositional techniques - Homophony, strict counterpoint, imitation, chanson and madrigal styles are all to be found here.

From its formation in 1937 onwards, the renown of the Nederlands Kamerkoor has grown rapidly and the quality of the ensemble has inspired leading composers; including Frank Martin, Francis Poulenc, James MacMillan and Sir John Tavener, to compose works for a cappella chorus. The choir has developed into an all-round ensemble that has mastered all facets of choral music, and is considered to be one of the world’s best.

Bernard Winsemius, a connoisseur of church music, organ and carillon, is the ideal organist to play this repertoire.

Peter Phillips (Tallis Scholars), Ton Koopman (The Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra) and William Christie (Les Arts Florissants) have all earned a reputation as choral conductors and they frequently tour the world with their Renaissance- and Baroque ensembles.