Francisco Guerrero, one of the influential composers on this album, made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 1588 and published a book about his journey.
Historical Context
In 16th-century Europe, Spain was the most powerful and influential country, acquiring vast new lands in the Americas and boasting a wealth of art and music.
Composition History
Alonso Lobo's motet, Versa est in luctum, was written for the obsequies of Philip II, Catholic King of Spain, in 1598.
Performer Biography
Harry Christophers, the conductor of The Sixteen, instituted The Choral Pilgrimage in 2000, a national tour of English cathedrals.
Composer Biography
Francisco Guerrero, a composer featured on this album, was captured twice by pirates and had to pay for his freedom during his pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
Cultural Impact
The works of Francisco Guerrero and Alonso Lobo were performed for nearly two centuries after their deaths in cathedrals throughout Spain, Portugal, and the New World.
Performer Biography
The Sixteen, the ensemble on this album, launched Genesis Sixteen in 2011, a fully-funded training program for young singers aged 18 to 23.
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