Jordi Savall’s latest offering, Guerre & Paix: 1614–1714, recalls the bloody events of the century preceding the Siege of Barcelona. This is an impressive compilation: comprising two CDs and an almost 400-page booklet, each piece of music represents an historical event, from the Thirty Years’ War to a celebration of the end of the War of Spanish Succession. In presenting music of battle Savall urges us to ‘acquire new ways of relating to each other if we are to reconcile differences in a world that is fertile in action, word and thought’. The theme is a timely one for Australians: 2015 marks the 100th anniversary of ANZAC landings at Gallipoli, which serves as a solemn reminder of the atrocities of war.

As his many recordings attest, Savall is a fine gambist, although there are few opportunities to experience the beauty of his solo instrument on Guerre & Paix. Instead, he shines as an assured director, which is no small feat considering the array of styles covered over the two CDs, from a traditional Ottoman ‘makam’ to Handel’s Jubilate Deo.

Perhaps the most poignant moment is the ‘Hymne de la Catalogne’ (also known as Els Segadors, the Catalonian anthem), performed by La Capella Reial de Catalunya, whose unison singing is particularly stirring. Traditional Catalan music elicits great passion from the group, as demonstrated in ‘El Cant des Aucells’. Here, in this brief moment of musical peace to mark the 1705 military alliance between England and Catalonia, the women sing with palpable tenderness and warmth.

Ultimately, percussionist Pedro Estevan remains the standout. What is a battle march without the thunderous roll of the drums? His playing provides a sense of both nationalistic fervour and solemnity, as the moment requires. Immaculately presented and performed, Guerre & Paix is a triumph for Savall.

Alexandra Mathew