Disc 02 01. Oxford Camerata "Infelix ego (Motette)" 02. Oxford Camerata "Versa est in luctum (Motette)" Missa pro defunctis (Requiem) (Querschnitt) 03. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Introit" 04. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Kyrie" 05. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Gradual" 06. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Offertorio" 07. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Sanctus" 08. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Agnus Dei" 09. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Communio" Missa pro defunctis (Requiem) (Querschnitt) 10. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Introit" 11. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Kyrie" 12. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Gradual" 13. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Offertorio" 14. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Sanctus" 15. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Agnus Dei" 16. Schola Cantorum of Oxford "Communio" 17. Oxford Camerata "In manus tuas (Motette)"
Description:
Music selection and sequence: Sister Marie Therese Levey, RSJ, St. Joseph's Convent, North Sydney.
"MAGNUM MYSTERIUM I/COLLECTION" on CD, performed by Jeremy Summerly with the Oxford Camerata and released by Celestial Harmonies, presents a carefully curated selection of sacred choral works that revolve around the idea of mystery, contemplation, and spiritual depth. The recording focuses on transparent, finely balanced a cappella singing, allowing the harmonic subtleties and inner architecture of each piece to emerge clearly. Summerly's direction is known for stylistic clarity and textual intelligibility, and the Oxford Camerata deliver an intimate, luminous choral sound that invites close listening, whether one is a connoisseur of early music or simply seeking a meditative listening experience. The repertoire, unified by its devotional character, moves between stillness and quietly unfolding intensity, making this CD ideal for focused, attentive listening as well as for creating a calm, reflective atmosphere.
Jeremy Summerly is recognized for his work as a choral conductor, musicologist, and specialist in early and Renaissance music. With ensembles such as the Oxford Camerata he has helped bring historically informed choral performance to a wider audience, with recordings that are appreciated for their precision, warmth, and scholarly grounding without ever becoming dry. The Oxford Camerata, founded to explore primarily early choral repertoire, has established a reputation for clarity of ensemble, clean intonation, and sensitive phrasing, often praised in the specialist press for the purity of its sound and its disciplined yet expressive approach.
Celestial Harmonies is a label known for high-quality, often contemplative recordings that place a strong emphasis on artistic integrity, careful repertoire choices, and audiophile sound. Their catalogue spans early music, world music, and meditative projects, frequently focusing on works and traditions that lie slightly off the mainstream but reward deep listening. With "MAGNUM MYSTERIUM I/COLLECTION," Celestial Harmonies once again offers an edition that combines sophisticated programming with refined sound engineering, appealing to listeners who value both musical substance and sonic finesse.