
O Guiding Night - The Spanish Mystics
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1/7Historical Context
St. Teresa of Ávila and St. John of the Cross were founding figures of a new Carmelite order and their writings are considered the summit of mystical literature.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The composers' brief for this album was to create atmospheric and mystical works to enhance the church music repertoire for both divine service and concert performance.
Composition History
The project for this album was conceived by John Studzinski through his Genesis Foundation, inspired by the writings of St. Teresa of Ávila and St. John of the Cross.
Album & Artwork
This album, "O Guiding Night," focuses on two prominent saints from Spain's Golden Age: St. Teresa of Ávila and St. John of the Cross.
Performer Biography
The Sixteen, led by Harry Christophers, is recognized as one of the world's greatest ensembles, known for early English polyphony, Renaissance, Baroque, and twentieth-century music.
Composer Biography
Roderick Williams, a baritone soloist, views composing as a 'glorified hobby' and a relaxation from his busy solo career, with a prolific and varied output.
Cultural Impact
St. Teresa of Ávila's visions, characterized by passion and erotic intensity, are vividly reflected in Bernini's sculpture The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa in Rome.














