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Vox Luminis

Tallis. Spem in alium

this event is part of

TOPSTUK TALLIS

Sat 15 May 2021 -20.00

Concert hall

introduction by Ignace Bossuyt	19.15
start	20.00

B - Standaard €25.00 - €49.00

Reduction -26 €13.00 - €25.00

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Renaissance motets XL

Counterpoint is the art of combing two or more melodic lines to form a harmonious whole. This technique became the guiding principle for all the composers of the Renaissance and beyond. The more voices, the more complex the interplay. When his Italian colleague Striggio had a 40-voice work sung in London, the proud and self-confident Thomas Tallis – Queen Elizabeth I’s favourite composer – picked up the gauntlet. He wrote a 40-voice motet of such perfect proportions that its impact was stunning. Particularly remarkable is that no voice in Spem in alium ever doubles another. Over the years, its round number of voices has been interpreted in various ways: Was there a religious significance? Was Tallis paying tribute to his 40-year-old queen? Was 40 gold coins Tallis’s fee? What is certain is that artistic leader Lionel Meunier will be celebrating his own 40th birthday in the Concertgebouw with this masterpiece, surrounded by his ensemble Vox Luminis in an appropriate XL line-up.

programme

Thomas Tallis (1505-1585)
Spem in alium

Alessandro Striggio (1536-1592)
Ecce beatam lucem

and motets by Carver, Sheppard & Deprez

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Thomas Tallis (1505-1585)
Spem in alium

Alessandro Striggio (1536-1592)
Ecce beatam lucem

and motets by Carv...

performers

Vox Luminis: vocal ensemble
Lionel Meunier: bass & artistic direction

Review

The University News

"I believe Vox Luminis’ mastery of the performance was a result of their ability to create an atmosphere of beauty which was both awe-inspiring and intimate, perfectly resonating with the sentiments of the poetry and prayer in the music."