Gesualdo - Prince of Madrigalists / Craft, Horne, et al

This is one of the finest cross sections of Gesualdo's work ever recorded. It includes madrigals, galliards, canzonettas, and psalms. There is a few works for strings thrown in among the various vocal works, creating an entertaining programme setting that makes for an approachable, sensibly balanced package. Most importantly, the singing is superb, featuring a small mixed choir, immaculately conducted by Robert Craft. This conductor has had a diverse career as a performer and writer whose authoritative biographic writings on Igor Stravinsky are definitive. Most of Craft's output as a performer has concentrated on the 20th century, which is part of the reason why this utterly successful recording is a surprise as well as a delight. The singers (there are only six) blend as well as can be reasonably asked, and the string players are likewise attuned to a historically informed musical rapport. This material was recorded in 1959 and 1962, and the sound quality is excellent, easily withstanding comparisons to the finest digital technology. In every way, this is a soulful, intelligent, and engaging disc. Those who do not know the music of Gesualdo should acquire this set of performances first. Those who know Gesualdo's music well should make pains hear this recording. It is a credit to the artist's work.