Palestrina: the Master of the Parody Mass

THIS WORKSHOP IS NOW CLOSED TO FURTHER APPLICANTS – EXCEPT TENORS. PLEASE EMAIL N.TRUSSELLE@GMAIL.COM IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO JOIN THE WAITING LIST.

Palestrina ranks alongside Lassus, Victoria and Byrd as one of the greatest composers of the late 16th century. Immensely productive, he composed at least 104 mass settings that in their variety demonstrate complete assimilation and mastery of the techniques of the Franco-Flemish masters. His music for the Mass is scintillating, dynamic and dignified. For this workshop, we will sing ‘movements’ of several of Palestrina’s masses, along with the source material for each — generally a motet or chanson.

This should be a harmonious, varied and enjoyable day of singing that will shed light on some of Palestrina’s lesser-known Mass settings. Final repertoire choices depend on the forces signing up, but it is hoped to include some or all of these Masses: O sacrum convivium, Sicut lilium, Assumpta est Maria and Je suis deshéritée. Divided voice parts are frequently required (especially tenors) so strong singers are encouraged to sign up early so that the desired Masses can be included.

We are very pleased to welcome back one of our most popular vocal tutors – David Allinson. David is a freelance conductor, singer and academic with wide experience as a leader of choral workshops. His special love is Renaissance polyphony, and he has led countless workshops and singing holidays in the UK and Europe.