Few things small enough to fit in the palm of the hand can inspire wonder about the limitless potential of human creativity. A collection of early Renaissance devotional objects- elegantly precise boxwood carvings of miniature rosaries, prayer beads and altarpieces, on display as part of a major international exhibition- served as the direct inspiration for this musical program. These objects draw viewers into a private and intimate world of meditation; religious scenes carved with precision and poetry evoke a bygone world of intense spiritual devotion- sometimes tormented, sometimes luminous, but always fascinating. The music in this program is designed to elicit similar sensations in listeners. Originating in northern European circles, contemporary with those who produced these boxwood carvings, these spiritual pieces are not intended for grand cathedrals or public ceremony, but for personal meditation, private chapels and rooms, family houses and assemblies. Like the beads and rosaries, their craftsmanship is precise, superb; rich in subtle details, they lead us to wonder, and to contemplation.

Artists

Michael Barrett (voice), Daniel Hershey (voice), Shira Kammen (vielle), Carol Lewis (viola da gamba), Andrew Arceci (viola da gamba), Anne Azéma (voice), Joel Frederiksen (voice), Frederiksen (lute), Fabio Accurso (lute), Fabio Acurso (lute), Shira Kammen (harp), Carol Lewis (treble viol), Joel Frederiksen (lute), Michael Barrett (lute)