Manfred Cordes

**Manfred Cordes** is a German conductor, musicologist, and champion of early music, best known for his work with the ensemble Weser-Renaissance Bremen, which he founded in the 1980s. Specializing in Renaissance and Baroque repertoire, Cordes has spent decades unearthing and breathing new life into forgotten gems from composers like Michael Praetorius, Heinrich Schütz, and Johann Philipp Förtsch. His recordings, often focused on sacred and ceremonial works, showcase a blend of scholarly rigor and vibrant performance—think lush vocal harmonies, intricate polyphony, and historically informed instrumentals. Whether reviving music from Hanseatic cities or diving into Christmas narratives (*Weihnachtshistorie*), Cordes brings a mix of precision and warmth to centuries-old compositions.

When he’s not directing his ensemble or recording albums (seriously, check out his *Musik der Hansestädte* series for some deep dives into regional history), Cordes shares his expertise as a professor of early music at the University of the Arts Bremen. His passion for bridging academia and performance has made him a go-to authority for reviving obscure works, from Cornelis Schuyt’s wedding madrigals to the spiritual depths of Gabrieli’s motets. If you’re into rich choral textures or organ works that rattle your soul, Manfred Cordes’ discography is like a time machine with impeccable vibes.

Genres

Classical

Baroque

Choral

Chamber Music

Early Music

Renaissance

Medieval

Historically Informed Performance

Polyphony

Latest Release

Cornelis Schuyt: Madrigali nuptiali · Padovane e Gagliarde

Manfred Cordes

Album - 19 Tracks - Released August 6, 2024