In an engaging demonstration of Renaissance vocal music, the female vocal ensemble Lyyra has released a beautiful rendition of 'Haec Dies,' a motet by the lesser-known Italian composer Leonora d'Este. This performance highlights the once-muted contributions of women in music during the Italian Renaissance, particularly those who composed and performed in the confines of convents.
Leonora d'Este, who lived in Ferrara, Italy, was not merely a musician; she was also a nun and a princess, the daughter of Lucrezia Borgia, a prominent figure known for her complex political and personal life. Despite her noble birth, d'Este's career and the musical landscape of her time were shaped by the unique talents of women who often created and performed in near secrecy. Ferrara had a vibrant cultural atmosphere during her life, with women’s contributions influencing major composers such as Claudio Monteverdi and Carlo Gesualdo.
'Recording and filming took place at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Houston, TX, facilitated by Barnaby Smith, a notable figure within the music community known for his work with VOCES8 and VOCES8 Studios. The piece 'Haec Dies' was originally composed for Easter Sunday and was likely intended for an all-female ensemble, showcasing intricacies of high register and polyphony that exhibit d'Este's distinctive mastery of early Renaissance styles.
Lyyra's performance is available through their official site, lyyramusic.com, and serves as a powerful reminder of the historical significance and artistic contributions of women in music. By revitalizing this piece, Lyyra not only honors d'Este’s work but also enriches contemporary audiences’ understanding of Renaissance music traditions.