Information
Composer: William Mundy
- A solis ortus cardine
- Vox patris caelestis
- Videte miraculum
- Kyrie
- Sive vigilem
- Magnificat
- O Lord, the Maker of All Thing
Choir of New College Oxford
Robert Quinney, director
Date: 2025
Label: Linn Records
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The Choir of New College Oxford’s latest album on Linn explores the rich and complex world of William Mundy, a key figure in 16th-century English music. His compositions, shaped by the religious and political upheavals of his time, offer a fascinating mix of intricate harmonies and unexpected choral textures. From the expansive Vox patris caelestis – a monument of Renaissance English polyphony – to the more intimate O Lord, the maker of all thing, Mundy’s music reflects both the compositional idioms of the day and its many challenges. This most remarkable composer shines in a performance to match by the centuries-old Choir of New College and its Director Robert Quinney. A must-hear for lovers of Renaissance choral music!
William Mundy (c. 1528–1591) was an English composer of sacred polyphonic music and father of composer John Mundy. A former head chorister at Westminster Abbey, he later served at St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Chapel Royal. While some works are ambiguously attributed between him and his son, William is best known for his Latin compositions, including two masses and over 20 motets, written in the rich polyphonic style preceding the madrigal. He also composed elaborate votive antiphons like Vox Patris caelestis. His English church music includes services and anthems such as O Lord, the Maker of All Things.
The Choir of New College Oxford, founded in 1379 by William of Wykeham, is one of England’s oldest and most prestigious choral foundations. It predates all similar institutions at Oxford and Cambridge, with a tradition spanning over six centuries. Comprising around 16 boys and 14 men, it plays a key role in the University of Oxford’s musical life and is internationally recognized for its excellence. Under the direction of Edward Higginbottom, the choir developed a distinctive, robust sound and earned two Gramophone Awards. It continues to be celebrated as one of the world’s leading choirs.
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