The Forgotten Voice of Lusitano

Vicente Lusitano was once a celebrated composer and theorist, renowned for his sharp musical insights – and one of the rare known composers of African descent in 16th-century Europe. Today, his name is largely forgotten. Unjustly so, according to The Marian Consort, which brings together his motets in a compact showcase. Works by contemporaries such as Vicentino, Danckerts, and Lassus place the Portuguese composer back in the musical heart of High Renaissance Rome, where he managed to carve out his own niche. 

Programme

Vicente Lusitano (c1520-after 1562) Heu me, Domine
Ghiselin Danckerts (c1510-after 1565) Laetamini in Domino
Vicente Lusitano Regina caeli laetare
Nicola Vicentino (1511-1575/76) Heu mihi Domine
Vicente Lusitano Sancta Maria
Tomás Luis de Victoria (1545-1611) Ave regina caelorum a8
Vicente Lusitano Aspice Domine a6
Orlandus Lassus (1530/32-1594) Regina caeli laetare a7
Vicente Lusitano Inviolata

Programme subject to change

The Marian Consort is an award-winning UK vocal ensemble directed by Rory McCleery, known for refined, flexible and expressive performances spanning the twelfth century to today. Praised internationally for clarity and emotional depth, it champions overlooked Renaissance composers and collaborates closely with living composers through commissions and new projects. With acclaimed recordings and appearances at major venues and festivals, it bridges tradition, innovation, and contemporary artistic collaboration.

Also live on www.emtv.online.