What a beautiful piece this is! But it is hardly ever done. I suppose that is because it calls for multiple women’s parts and, to be honest, it’s very difficult. It may sound simple, but it takes a lot of rehearsal, even for the women of Voices. But what a tender, intimate, quiet world it conjures up. It is intended of course as a devotional piece in praise of the Virgin Mary (“You are full of beauty, Mary”). I guess you could picture a group of nuns singing it in some peaceful chapel. This motet is so short I find myself listening to it multiple times. I don’t want to leave the beautiful world it evokes.

– Dennis Keene, Artistic Director

MAURICE DURUFLÉ Tota Pulchra Es Maria

Voices of Ascension
Dennis Keene, Artistic Director

from the Delos recording Mysteries Beyond ℗ 1994 Delos
The singers in this performance are represented by the American Guild of Musical Artists, AFL-CIO.