Album Notes

Foreword by Andrew Balfour, Artistic Director

I am absorbed by the purity and elegance of the vocal polyphony of the Renaissance. It is a transparent sound with intricate, seamless and interwoven musical lines. For me, it soars with wonderment, groans in minor keys and accidentals of grief and whispers of mystery. Whether I am singing, conducting or composing, it is a constant source of inspiration, leading me forward.

Mystica is testament to the powerful influence that Renaissance music has had over the centuries and across continents. The unifying force in this recording comes from the pure vocal line of the Renaissance, whether it be found in contemporary Canadian works, compositions of the 19th and 18th centuries or from the Renaissance proper.

Mystica is Camerata Nova’s way of celebrating the mystery and wonderment of music, of life. We believe that it is a profound way to express our fragile nature. We hope this music will fill you, in turn, with joy, solace and peace.
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Camerata Nova was founded in 1996 as an a cappella choral ensemble led by Andrew Balfour. The group specialises in Renaissance music but enjoys stretching the bounds of sound to include elements such as overtoning, crystal bowl, didgeridoo and shell and stretching the bounds of repertoire to include medieval, contemporary and early music from outside western Europe.

www.cameratanova.com