Prophecy, apocalypse and liturgy

The Sibylline Chant is a medieval liturgical tradition with deep roots in the Christian cultures of the Mediterranean, particularly in Catalonia, the Balearic Islands and Sardinia. In the first centuries of Christianity, certain Sibylline prophecies were integrated into the Christian tradition, often interpreted as predictions of the coming of Christ and the Last Judgment. Prophetic texts were adapted and Christianized, giving rise to a Gregorian-style liturgical tradition characterized by monodic, often solemn and moving chanting in the vernacular or Latin. In the 20th century^e century, there has been a revival of interest in this tradition, with efforts to restore and promote the Sibylline Chant in other regions. In 2010, Unesco inscribed Mallorca's Sibylline Chant on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

In conclusion, the Sibylline Song is a fascinating example of how elements of prophecy, apocalypse and liturgy can intertwine to create a rich and enduring cultural tradition, reflecting the eschatological concerns and spiritual hopes of humanity through the ages.

An exceptional recording allows us to experience this tradition to the full, thanks to the Hirundo Maris ensemble and its leader Arianna Savall, a singer and harpist specializing in historical harp, with the participation of Petter Udland Johansen and the Ensemble Vocal de Saint-Maurice, directed by Charles Barbier. The incredible variety of sounds and instruments rediscovered in this repertoire takes us on a musical journey between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, from Catalonia to Norway.

Arianna Savall's soprano lifts us up with her magnificent, crystalline timbre, while tenor Petter Udland Johansen takes the listener by the hand and leads him into Nordic landscapes, which he recounts wonderfully. As for the Ensemble Vocal de Saint-Maurice, they hit the nail on the head with their purity of intonation and perfect vocal fusion. What a delight!

El cant de la Sibil.la / Draumkvedet (Sibylline songs from Catalonia and Norway). Arianna Savall, Petter Udland Johansen, Hirundo Maris, Ensemble Vocal de Saint-Maurice, Conductor Charles Barbier, P. U. Johansen. Carpe Diem Records CD 16333