Savall's musical training started in the school choir of his native town (1947-55). He later completed his training at the Barcelona Conservatory of Music (1959-65). Afterward, he began his specialisation in early music at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in Basel, Switzerland (1968-70).
In 1974 he formed the ensemble Hespèrion XX (since 2000 as Hespèrion XXI), together with the soprano Montserrat Figueras (his wife), Lorenzo Alpert and Hopkinson Smith. Hespèrion XX favored a style of interpretation characterised by great musical vitality and at the same time, maximum historical accuracy.
In 1987 he returned to Barcelona to found La Capella Reial de Catalunya, a vocal ensemble devoted to the interpretation of music prior to the 18th century.
Finally, in 1989 Savall created Le Concert des Nations, an orchestra that is generally dedicated to the baroque repertoire, but which sometimes also serves as an outlet for music that hails from the classical/romantic repertoire (e.g. Sinfonia a Gran Orquesta by Juan Crisótomo de Arriga).
Savall's discography includes more than 140 recordings. Since 1998 he has released his records with his own label, Alia Vox.
Jordi Savall is also a two-time Grammy nominee, who scored the 1991 Alain Corneau film, Tous les matins du monde (also awarded the César of the French film industry in 1992). The soundtrack, re-released on his own Alia Vox label, has sold more than a million copies worldwide.
The Messiah HWV 56 Part II: Chorus "He Trusted in God"
Jordi Savall Lyrics
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let Him deliver Him, if He delight in Him.
The lyrics "He trusted in God that He would deliver Him; let Him deliver Him, if He delight in Him" are from the Chorus section of Jordi Savall's rendition of Part II of Handel's Messiah, specifically from the famous chorus "He Trusted in God." This particular chorus is based on Psalm 22:8, which is a prophetic text often associated with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
In this context, the lyrics take on a dual meaning. Firstly, they represent the mockery and taunting that Jesus endured while he was on the cross. Those who opposed him challenged his faith in God and his claim to be the son of God. They questioned why God had not saved him if he truly trusted in Him. This reflects the skepticism and disbelief that surrounded Jesus during his crucifixion.
Secondly, these lyrics also have a deeper meaning concerning Jesus' ultimate trust in God's plan and his submission to divine will. Despite the apparent abandonment and suffering, Jesus remained steadfast in His trust and confidence in God. He willingly embraced His destiny on the cross, fully aware that His ultimate purpose was to be a sacrificial offering for the salvation of humanity.
Overall, the lyrics encapsulate both the cruel taunting Jesus faced and His unwavering faith, highlighting the paradoxical nature of His mission and the complex emotions that came with it.
Line by Line Meaning
He trusted in God that He would deliver Him;
He placed his faith in God, believing that God would rescue Him.
let Him deliver Him, if He delight in Him.
If God truly finds joy in Him, then let God save Him.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: George Frideric Handel
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind