Product Description

Thanks to the Martin Best Medieval Ensemble, we have a series of excellent recordings that give a generous flavor of the music and era of the troubadours, whose influence on poetry and song was substantial, and whose commentaries on customs and mores of the 13th century are invaluable references for understanding certain aspects of medieval life. Guirart Riquier, whose music and poetry this recording celebrates, was "the last known exemplar of the long tradition of sung poetry that began in southwest France at the end of the 11th century." There's some surprising stuff here--exciting in its rhythmic energy and persuasive in its plaintive emotion. Ingenious arrangements and skillful musicianship are largely responsible for the excitement--and the lyrical tenor voice of Martin Best creates just the right atmosphere.