On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti The music of Christmas in 16th-century Spain
Dec 25, 2025
Scott Metcalfe, the artistic director of Blue Heron, dives into the enchanting world of 16th-century Christmas music from Spain. He shares fascinating insights about Francisco Guerrero's polyphonic works and explains how this rich tradition features lively villancicos and intricate motets. Blue Heron performs compelling pieces like 'La Bomba,' bringing to life the dramatic story of a shipwreck. The discussion also touches on historical context, the evolution of ensembles, and how modern performances are bridging past practices with today’s inclusive music scene.
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Specialty In Early Polyphony
- Blue Heron focuses on 15th–16th century polyphony from several European traditions.
- Scott Metcalfe calls this repertoire "Music Before Mozart" and studies original sources to revive it.
Guerrero's Global Reach
- Scott Metcalfe describes Francisco Guerrero as a superstar of the 16th century whose music traveled to the New World.
- Blue Heron performed Guerrero's Advent setting Conditor alme siderum to illustrate that reach.
Polyphony Equals Musical Democracy
- Renaissance polyphony features equal, interdependent vocal parts rather than hierarchical accompaniment.
- Scott Metcalfe says this makes the music cooperative and non-hierarchical compared with later ensembles.