Monteverdi: Madrigali Guerrieri Ed Amorosi

The special place of the eighth book of Madrigals in the secular output of Claudio Monteverdi cannot be overemphasized. Printed in Venice in 1638, this late, isolated publication by a 71-year-old composer who had long ago reached the peak of his career is a musical, aesthetic and philosophical testament. Originally released in 2003, this glorious collection of music, brilliantly performed by René Jacobs and his amazing cast of singers, is available once more as part of harmonia mundi's Heritage series.

Price: $17.98