Merulo: Motets

Along with his prestigious position of first organist of the San Marco in Venice, composer Claudio Merulo (1533-1604) also composed outstanding keyboard music, masses, motets, and madrigals. Merulo’s Motets are featured on this new release. These works show his innovation with their linguistic freedom not typical of the High Renaissance motets. Conducted by Mauro Marchetti, the Italian Modus Ensemble is accompanied by historical instruments: the viola da gamba, violone, theorbo, and organ.