Decca Classics announces the release of the first in a trilogy of recordings from the internationally acclaimed vocal ensemble Stile Antico to celebrate major anniversaries of three Renaissance masters. The first in the series, The Golden Renaissance: Josquin des Prez, released on 29th January 2021, is dedicated to the Franco-Flemish composer to mark the 500th anniversary of his death.
The series features stunning repertoire presented in Dolby Atmos for the first time, with this release featuring a world premiere recording of Josquin’s chanson, Vivrai je tousjours.
One of the most important composers of the Renaissance, Josquin’s remarkable developments in polyphonic vocal music defined the genre for all those who followed him. In an era of cultural revolution and discovery throughout Europe, this trailblazer is widely considered the first musical master of the High Renaissance.
Stile Antico’s new album is structured around one of the composer’s most famous mass settings, Missa Pange lingua. Future releases in this series will include celebrations of the 400th anniversary of the death of William Byrd (2023) and the 500th anniversary of the birth of Palestrina (2025).
Stile Antico is firmly established as one of the world’s most accomplished and innovative vocal ensembles. Working without a conductor, its twelve members have thrilled audiences on four continents with their colourful and vibrant performances of Renaissance polyphony. Its numerous recordings have earned accolades including the Gramophone Award for Early Music, Diapason d’or de l’année, Edison Klassiek Award, and Preis der deutschen Schallplattenkritik.
The group has received three Grammy® nominations and performed live at the 60th Grammy® Awards at Madison Square Garden. Stile Antico has appeared at many of Europe’s most important venues, including Wigmore Hall, Amsterdam Concertgebouw, and Leipzig Gewandhaus, and regularly features at such prestigious festivals as the BBC Proms and the Antwerp and Utrecht Early Music festivals. The group frequently tours to the US and Canada, and has appeared in Mexico, Colombia, Hong Kong and South Korea.
Stile Antico releases The Golden Renaissance: Josquin des Prez on Decca Classics on 29th January 2021