Mariánská muzika - CD

This CD presents a new recording of Adam Václav Michna’s Česká mariánská muzika, a selection of songs praising the Virgin Mary, alongside works by Alessandro Grandi, Vincenzo Albrici, Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber, Samuel Capricornus and Giovanni Girolamo Kapsperger. Soprano Hana Blažíková performs with the ensemble Collegium Marianum, led by Jana Semerádová. The recording brings to life the enchanting poetry of 17th-century Czech Marian songs, a significant yet long-overlooked strand of Czech music. Michna was one of the greatest Czech Baroque poets, and although his Christmas songs became part of popular tradition in Czech churches, his lesser-known Marian music reveals a captivating world of devotional beauty. The instrumental works provide a counterpoint to the songs; their composers were often connected with the Jesuit order, drew inspiration from its spirituality, and had links to the Lands of the Bohemian Crown, where their music was also performed. The apparently simple songs unfold their full depth and beauty through the work of exceptional internationally renowned musicians, whose expertise includes demanding repertoire by Zelenka and Bach.