Guillaume Dufay - Dufay: Music for St Anthony of Padua (LP)

Immerse yourself in the sacred and intricate world of medieval polyphony with Guillaume Dufay's "Dufay: Music for St Anthony of Padua." This album, released in 1996 by Hyperion, is a testament to Dufay's unique position as a composer who bridged the medieval and Renaissance periods. The album features the complete "Missa de S Anthonii de Padua," a Mass dedicated to Dufay's patron saint, Anthony of Padua, along with two additional motets in praise of the saint. The Mass, consisting of the traditional 'Ordinary' movements, is a remarkable example of Dufay's complex and stratified vocal writing, which sets it apart from the denser textures of later Renaissance composers. The Binchois Consort, under the direction of Andrew Kirkman, delivers a captivating performance that highlights the album's intricate polyphony and the spiritual depth of Dufay's music. Recorded in All Hallows, Gospel Oak, London, the album's 59-minute duration offers a profound and engaging journey through Dufay's devotional masterpiece. The accompanying booklet provides insightful notes in English, French, and German, along with Latin texts and their English translations, enhancing the listener's understanding and appreciation of this extraordinary musical offering.