Sung by Peregrine Medieval Vocal Ensemble, Artists-in-Residence at St. Mark's Cathedral, Seattle, and favorites at the cathedral's New Year's Eve labyrinth walk.

The Matins service was the most extensive of medieval liturgical forms: lengthy, extravagant, a complete experience—all taking place in the early morning before sunrise. Matins carried forward the tradition of night vigils begun in the early church in recollection of waiting at the tomb through the night before Easter. Monastic liturgical enthusiasm extended the vigil to every night of the year; each service entailed an hour or more of chanting and spiritual readings. For more important feasts (such as the feast of All Saints, which we sing here) the service could go on for hours. With its musical richness and unhurried pace, the chant unfolds gently in the pre-dawn stillness.

Peregrine explores the Gregorian chant repertoire from liturgical, historical, interfaith, and contemplative perspectives, and has presented chant in educational settings, church services, multifaith gatherings, and meditation events.

Cheryl Ann Fulton is America’s premier historical harpist.  She founded and directs the medieval harp choir Angelorum, and has she has also worked with many early music ensembles including Anonymous 4, Sequentia, Les Idees Heureuses, American Bach Soloists, American Baroque, The Boston Camerata, and Chanticleer. She can be heard on over 30 albums.