Top Recordings of Gregorian Chant for Beginners and Enthusiasts

In the quiet corners of sacred spaces, where time seems to stand still, Gregorian chant has echoed through centuries. This ancient form of liturgical music, with its sublime simplicity and profound depth, attracts both those new to its mystique and those deeply versed in its spiritual resonance. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, historical depth, or a connection to the divine, here’s a curated selection of recordings that serve as perfect entry points or enrichments to your Gregorian chant journey.

For the Beginner:

1. Chant – Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo de SilosOften dubbed the album that brought Gregorian chant back to the mainstream, this recording from the early ’90s is an excellent starting point. The monks of Santo Domingo de Silos offer a pure, unadulterated experience of chant, with selections that feel both timeless and soothing. This album was marketed as a stress-reliever, and indeed, its serene sounds provide an escape from the daily hustle. More on the history of this phenomenon.
2. Gregorian Chant: The Best of by Various ArtistsThis compilation is a treasure trove for those dipping their toes into the chant pool. Featuring performances from multiple choirs and monasteries, it gives a broad overview of the diversity within Gregorian chant. From the high notes of the Salve Regina to the solemnity of the Dies Irae, this album is like a sampler of sacred music’s finest moments.
3. Chant Voices – Relaxing Music GeneratorFor those who appreciate the meditative aspect of chant, this unique offering from MyNoise.net allows you to create your own Gregorian chant ambiance. It’s not a traditional recording but serves as an interactive introduction to how chants can be a part of daily relaxation or meditation.

For the Enthusiast:

1. Les Tons De La Musique by Ensemble Gilles BinchoisFor those who have fallen in love with the chant and seek a deeper exploration, this recording by Ensemble Gilles Binchois is a must-listen. Released in 1989, it captures the essence of medieval chant with a focus on authenticity. The ensemble’s approach to the nuances of Gregorian melody is both scholarly and soulful, making it a favorite among those who wish to understand the chant beyond its surface beauty.
2. Benedicta: Marian Chant from Norcia by the Monks of NorciaThis album is a deep dive into Marian chants, recorded by the Benedictine Monks of Norcia. It’s not just the clarity of their voices but the spiritual depth of their singing that captivates. For enthusiasts, this recording is like a conversation with the divine, each chant a prayer that resonates with centuries of devotion. Learn more about the spiritual significance of chant.
3. Gregorian Chants from the Proper of the Mass by Alberto TurcoHere’s where the enthusiast can explore the liturgical function of chant. This recording focuses on the Mass propers, those chants specific to the day’s liturgy, offering a window into how chants were integral to the spiritual life of the medieval church. It’s a scholarly listen, perfect for those interested in the liturgical context and the evolution of chant.

Special Mentions:

• Salve Regina by the Benedictine Monks of the Abbey of Saint-Maurice and Saint Maur, Clervaux A beautiful rendition that showcases the power of simplicity in chant. This recording is particularly noted for its authenticity, having been recorded during an actual mass, capturing the spirit and solemnity of the occasion.
• Chant – Music for Paradise If you’re looking for a chant album that feels like a journey into heaven, this collection is enchanting. The antiphon for “In Paradisum” is particularly moving, often described as tear-jerking for its beauty and peacefulness.

Conclusion:

Whether you’re just beginning your journey with Gregorian chant or you’re looking to expand your collection, these recordings offer a spectrum of experiences. From the calming, almost therapeutic sounds that can accompany daily life to the scholarly, deeply spiritual explorations of chant’s liturgical role, there’s something here for every listener. Gregorian chant isn’t just music; it’s a bridge to the past, a tool for meditation, and a form of worship that continues to resonate with souls today. Remember, the beauty of Gregorian chant lies not only in its melody but in the silence between the notes, the space for reflection and contemplation.

As you explore these recordings, consider each chant not just as a melody but as a prayer, an invitation to step into a moment of peace, where time is measured by the breath of singers rather than the tick of a clock.