Altramar review: Reno Gazette-Journal

The Beat is On

(Three Stars)

Very little music from the Middle Ages has survived over the centuries. And most of what remains is essentially reconstructions and arrangements based on medieval research. Such is the case with this collection of songs and dances from the time of St. Francis of Assisi.

Altramar is an ensemble of two men and two women specializing in medieval music. They sing and play all their own instruments, and the result is a sheer delight. Over the course of an hour, they deliver these ancient modal melodies while savoring the music's richness and rhythmic variety.

Focusing on the songs of St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226), they paint a musical picture of his life and wonderings, limning his virtues while expressing a simple but enduring peasant faith. They sing his "Canticle of Brother Sun," as well as a couple of Christmas pieces.

Exotic-sounding instruments such as the vielle, rebec, gittern and oud produce fascinating colors and effects. The dance pieces "Francesco" and "Saltarello Sancto Antonio" are full of crisp charm and portray a vigorous picture of medieval life. There was nothing stodgy about medieval folk; they were reay to dance at a moment's notice and this music proves it.

--Terry Joy

Go here for a St Francis program description.
Go here to visit Dorian's web site.