Philippe Verdelot Composer

Jeff Ostrowski · April 23, 2022

Choir Directors • “Is It Worth The Struggle?”

The choir director’s vocation is chock-full of difficulties.

Jeff Ostrowski · February 26, 2022

PDF Download • Missa Philomena (Philippe Verdelot)

This music is from a much earlier period; and you can tell.

Jeff Ostrowski · August 12, 2020

These kids are on fire! • “Victimæ Paschali Laudes” by Philippe Verdelot

I don’t know a more beautiful, gorgeous, memorable 15 seconds than the beginning of Part 2—stunning!

Follow the Discussion on Facebook

Jeff Ostrowski · July 23, 2015

Polyphony (SATB) By Verdelot • With Optional Hymn “Christe Supreme”

Amazing! Verdelot’s cadence here sounds quite modern!

Jeff Ostrowski · June 17, 2015

SATB “Agnus Dei” by Verdelot with Rehearsal Videos

Who wouldn’t welcome a brief-but-beautiful piece like this?

Why Text Only?

Why do hymns in the Saint Jean de Brébeuf Hymnal give so many optional “text only” versions of the hymns? It’s easier to demonstrate than explain. Consider Hymn #24, which allows the director to choose a wonderful melody and easily apply it to the text. Hymnal editors knew about the value of “text only” versions for centuries, but this was gradually forgotten in Catholic books. In 2018, the Brébeuf Catholic Hymnal rediscovered what should never have disappeared in the first place!

—Jeff Ostrowski

“Choral Eavesdropping” • 15 Sept. 2022

If you enjoy eavesdropping, here’s a rehearsal excerpt (mp3) of my volunteers singing the exercise I posted last week. This is the second time we’ve used it, and I can definitely hear improvement. You can download this choral warm-up for free.

—Jeff Ostrowski

Have You Done This?

Friends, have you done this yet? I’m talking about subscribing to our free mailing list. We beg you! Do this as soon as possible. Scroll to the bottom of any article, and you will see the place you input your email.

—Jeff Ostrowski