ARCHIVE CHOICE
This Striggio’s still got it
I Fagiolini’s award-winning 2011 Mass in 40 Parts sounds better than ever in this reissue
Striggio
Mass in 40 Parts; Ecce beatam lucem; Fuggi, spene mia; O giovenil ardire; Altr’io che queste spighe etc; plus works by Tallis and Galilei I Fagiolini/Robert Hollingworth
CORO COR16199 68:55 mins (2011)
When I Fagiolini released its world-premiere recording of Alessandro Striggio’s Mass in 40 Parts () in 2011, it, performed here in a version with instrumental accompaniment. This is no mere novelty, as conductor Robert Hollingworth skilfully layers the instruments to add extra force and resonance to key harmonies and textures. The results are thrilling, at times sonically ecstatic. A selection of shorter vocal works by Striggio, plus a delightful lute piece by Vincenzo Galilei, complete the programme. If you missed this exceptional issue first time round, buy it now – it’s sounding better than ever.
