The chants of the Cistercians - For the First Vespers at the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Gregorian contemplation

The founding of the Cistercian order at the end of the 11th century was a move towards

asceticism and simplicity, a turning away from the worldliness and wealth of other orders. This

reform towards simplicity was reflected not only in the monks’ everyday life but also in architecture,

liturgy and music. Gregorian melodies were liberated from superfluous ornamentation, their

melodic linearity allowing a deep tranquillity to shine through.

The Heinrich-Isaac-Ensemble has drawn on 14th century Colmar manuscripts for this

interpretation of Vespers for the Birth of Mary.