Capella de Ministrers showcases the splendor of Valencian Corpus Christi, one of the city’s most important festivities since 1355, and recreates the soundscape that accompanied the famous procession with music recovered from the manuscript of a book by Josep Gomar, written in 1672, in which the Valencian musician compiled the texts, instructions, and music of the religious performances staged year after year.
Carles Magraner revives the music of the 17th-century Corpus Christi procession in Valencia and invites us into the splendor of this major celebration, one of the city’s most significant festivities since 1355. This album transports us to late 17th-century Valencia, recreating the soundscape that accompanied the famous Corpus Christi procession with music recovered from Josep Gomar’s 1672 manuscript. The booklet notes are written by musicologist Francesc Villanueva, an expert in the repertoire, who points out that “the Corpus Christi feast gradually became the most splendid and well-attended celebration on the annual festive calendar, rightfully earning a reputation that extended beyond the borders of the Kingdom of Valencia.” The album is available on Capella de Ministrers’ website and on major digital content and music streaming platforms starting June 11.