Cappella Pratensis

Founded in 1987, the Dutch ensemble Cappella Pratensis endeavors to perform 15th- and 16th-century polyphony with a deep understanding of the performance practice and musical context out of which the music first emerged. To that end, the group sings from a single choirbook in original mensural notation and emphasizes musical elements such as plainsong that would have had utmost significance for the composer and the singers of his time. Even more than approaching historical authenticity, use of the choirbook format allows the singers to heighten the effect of each individual horizontal musical line. While their repertoire has also included explorations of chant and High Renaissance polyphony, their primary sphere is the music of Josquin and his contemporaries. Cappella Pratensis has toured Europe, North America, and Japan and has made over ten CD recordings. The ensemble is currently directed by Stratton Bull and Peter Van Heyghen.