Under Construction
It is well-known that this publication was copied out by the young J.S. Bach, and it continues to be one of Frescobaldi's most-admired. It would appear to be his consummation of a tradition pioneered by such Venetian composers as Merulo.
The cycle itself consists of three organ masses, following norms which had developed in Italy in the 16th century, but incorporating some secular features in a very Frescobaldi-esque way, notably the affetti. The specific series of three masses is likewise traditionally derived.
The next volume of this series:
Another recent high-profile rendition:
A couple of recordings as part of complete series:
Programs of similar material performed by mixed instrumental & vocal ensemble:
The first mass is actually one of Frescobaldi's small handful of sacred vocal works, scored for eight voices and surviving in manuscript.
A broader survey by the present performer:
Finally, a quality recording devoted to a similar mass cycle by Claudio Merulo (1533-1604), who deserves to be much better-known for this genre:
To purchasing information for this disc.
To FAQ references to this recording.
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Todd M. McComb