I am not intending this series to have much of a theme usually, but it seems right that over the next few days I post some music that fits in some way with Easter.
Having said that – I don’t think I will be posting much that is specifically ‘Easter Music’ with the exception of today’s post. The “Miserere Mei” written by Allegri in the 1630s (probably – no one knows for sure) was originally exclusively used in the Sistine Chapel during Holy Week – specifically during Tenebrae and often on Spy Wednesday. This makes it particularly appropriate for me to share today.
The last time that I heard this live was actually at a service for Ash Wednesday in Coventry Cathedral. The music casts a spell over the listeners that is quite special – and having visited the Sistine Chapel for the first time just a couple of years ago I can only imagine how lovely this would sound in there.
For some, this video may be too long, but I intend to make no apologies for posting clips that require the listener to spend a little bit more time than the soundbites we often find around. I would suggest that you close your eyes and let this music wash over you for the next few minutes and let it bring a bit of calm and peace.
Gregorio Allegri : Miserere Mei
Comments :
Howard J Evans
I heard this on Radio 3 this week, sung by the 16, but in what was an original version. There is scholarship to suggest that it evolved into this version that we know.
George McConnell
Indeed – haven’t heard the 16 version but wasn’t aware that the original could be sourced – will look it out. I guess that it was probably written originally on the 17th Century equivalent of the “back of a fag packet” 😁
Howard J Evans
George, gorgeous music!
George McConnell
Howard I found the version you were talking about – it is quite different, but also lovely, even more plainchant-like I think (listening at the moment!). In searching I discovered that I was wrong about not knowing about it – there was a BBC documentary a few years ago with Simon Russell Beale charting the history of the music illustrated by The Sixteen. I also found this short interview with Harry Christophers talking about the “evolution” version