Claudio Merulo - Merulo: Organ-Alternatim Masses (LP)

Claudio Merulo's "Merulo: Organ-Alternatim Masses" is a captivating collection of sacred choral works that showcases the composer's mastery of the Renaissance polyphonic style. Released on February 5, 2016, under the Brilliant Classics label, this album spans a impressive duration of 2 hours and 13 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of Merulo's liturgical compositions.

The album features three complete Masses: "Missa apostolorum," "Missa in dominicis diebus," and "Missa Virginis Mariae." Each Mass is meticulously structured, adhering to the traditional liturgical sequence of the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Agnus Dei, and Ite, missa est. Merulo's intricate polyphony and rich harmonic language are evident throughout, providing a profound spiritual experience.

In addition to the choral pieces, the "Missa Virginis Mariae" includes two instrumental works, "Ricercar del quarto tuono" and "Canzona le scarampa," adding a unique dimension to the album. These instrumental compositions demonstrate Merulo's versatility as a composer and his skill in writing for the organ.

"Merulo: Organ-Alternatim Masses" is a testament to Claudio Merulo's contributions to Renaissance sacred music. The album is a must-listen for enthusiasts of choral music and those interested in the rich tapestry of Renaissance polyphony.