Europe's Golden Age

The inspiring and uplifting sacred music of the late 16th century defines 'Europe's Golden Age', and Magnificat captures that spirit with its very special golden choral sound. Originally released in 1996, 'Europe's Golden Age' has been re-issued as part of Linn's ECHO series which offers a second chance to enjoy the best of the label's award-winning catalogue. There are contributions from the great polyphonists des Prez, Lassus and Victoria, as well as a selection of other exquisite works by Guerrero and Rebelo. Familiar gems such as Palestrina's Stabat mater and Allegri's Miserere mei, with appropriate vocal ornamentation and great sensitivity to the texts, complete Magnificat's stunning debut.

Magnificat is one of the world's premier vocal ensembles whose recordings have met with huge critical acclaim: Spem in alium was hailed as 'quite the best performance of Tallis's 40-part Spem in alium that I have heard' by Gramophone and was 'First Choice' in Building A Library on BBC Radio 3's CD Review. In addition Victoria's Officium Defunctorum was named 'Critics' Choice' by Gramophone and chosen by The Rough Guide as one of its '100 Essential Classical CDs'. Directed by Philip Cave, Magnificat specialises in the restoration and performance of neglected choral masterpieces of the 16th and 17th centuries. In association with Linn Records, Magnificat has undertaken many highly successful recording projects including Latin sacred music by Robert Parsons, Robert White and William Byrd and two recordings to commemorate the 450th anniversary of composer Philippe Rogier.