Duke Albert V of Bavaria was so captivated by Roland de Lassus's Prophetiae Sibyllarum that he commissioned four richly illustrated manuscripts and then kept them under lock and key, reserving their performance exclusively for himself.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded in February 2021 at the Abbey of Noirlac, a former Cistercian monastery that has been restored and now serves as a cultural center.
Composition History
Roland de Lassus, the composer, wrote the Prophetiae Sibyllarum between 1554-1555, during a period when his whereabouts were uncertain.
Performer Biography
Ensemble Irini, founded in 2014 by Lila Hajosi, is a vocal ensemble that specializes in a cappella work, exploring music from the European Middle Ages to Byzantine and contemporary music.
Interpretation
The album's artistic concept, 'O Sidera,' explores Christian Mysticism through the figures of the Sibyls and Cherubim, and the Mystery of the Incarnation, focusing on the divine 'Great Beyond' where reason gives way to spirit and music.
Cultural Impact
The Sibyls, ancient psychics, became counterpoints to the Prophets in the Middle Ages, announcing the coming of a Savior, and were even depicted by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel.
Compositional Technique
The Prophetiae Sibyllarum by Roland de Lassus uses absolute and fascinating chromaticism, a new practice championed by Nicola Vincentino.
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