Customer Reviews

Wings of Wisdom

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I bought this item mainly for the selections from the "Inchcolm Antiphoner," a collection of chants used at Inchcolm (Scotland). They are among the very few preserved examples of so-called "Gallic chant," although beyond the texts, several of which are for the Feast of St Colomba, it is difficult to say what would mark these off as particularly Gallic (as opposed to continental or Sarum chant).
The performances are good and not laden with gimmickry, as so often happens in recordings of ancient music from Celtic cultures. The voices are clear, lovely, bright, intonation is good, and instrumental accompaniment thoughtfully used. Although it is impossible to say exactly how this music was performed at the time of its creation and general use, the choices made by the ensemble are grounded in research into the general performing traditions of the time (information is sparse, but does exist).
The bulk of the recording is taken up by music of Hildegard von Bingen whose music is well enough known by chant afficionados to need no comment from me here, save to say they are also well rendered and beautifully sung.
This is a chant collection worth adding to your collection, for the inclusion of the unusual Inchcolm pieces and for the fine performances. A fine way to relax at the end of a long day, but vital enough to engage the interest of the casual or scholarly listener.