Despite his vast output (105 masses, over 250 motets), Giovanni de
Palestrina (c. 1525-1594) maintained an extraordinary level of quality
in his music. With Byrd and Lassus, he ranks among the greatest
composers of the last sixteenth century and a study of his work is
essential for serious students and scholars.
This volume contains six masses by the composer, as well as a selection
of motets. Certain of the masses are parody masses, i.e. they are based
on a motet or other works by Palestrina or another composer. In such
cases, the original motet, or chant, has also been included here. The
six masses are: Missa Papae Marcelli (his most famous), Missa L'Homme
Armé, Missa O Magnum Mysterian (plus motet), Missa Ave Regina
Coelorum (plus chant), Missa Veni Sponsa Christi (plus motet), and
Missa Ascendo ad Patrem (plus motet). Written for unaccompanied
voices, these compositions rank among the finest works of a towering
figure in early music. In this inexpensive, authoritative edition, they
will be welcomed by all students and lovers of sacred music.