Missa Puisque je vis & other works

"This is of far more than just academic interest, since the poise and control of the performers is apparent everywhere; in a movement such as the Sanctus, the musical pleasure are hard to miss."
***** Five Stars (Pick of the Month) BBC Music Magazine (Sept 03)

This new disc contains the Missa Puisque je vis almost certainly by Dufay, and Compère's Omnium bonorum plena written in praise of the Virgin Mary, as well as motets by Dufay and other sources, all of which help colour our increasing awareness of the florid richness and emotional devotion of music before Baroque, till recently the starting point of most people's awareness of the art. Characteristics of Dufay are his intricate workmanship and the development of independent balance among the vocal parts that lead us naturally to the satisfying clarity which has itself given old music a strangely contemporary feel.

The Binchois Consort, now in their eighth year under their founder Andrew Kirkman, has a special affinity with the music of Dufay, for it was to perform Dufay that the ensemble was initially founded. That first outing formed the basis of their continuing award-winning exploration on Hyperion of 15th century music, in particular the worlds of French and English music during the so-called Burgundian period.