Immerse yourself in the profound and contemplative world of sacred choral music with "Alfred Schnittke & Arvo Pärt: Choral Works." This captivating album, released on January 5, 2018, under the BIS label, brings together the powerful compositions of two esteemed composers, Alfred Schnittke and Arvo Pärt. The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conducted by Kaspars Putniņš, delivers a mesmerizing performance that spans 59 minutes of minimalist beauty.
The album features a collection of 15 tracks, including the deeply moving "Psalms of Repentance" series by Alfred Schnittke, and the serene "Magnificat" and "Nunc Dimittis" by Arvo Pärt. Schnittke's works, such as "Adam Sat Weeping at the Gates of Paradise" and "O Man, Doomed and Wretched," are known for their introspective and reflective nature, while Pärt's compositions are celebrated for their spiritual depth and simplicity.
This album is a testament to the resurgence of Christianity in the late Soviet Union, as both composers explore themes of faith, repentance, and spiritual awakening. The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir's pristine vocals and Putniņš' expert direction bring these compositions to life, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence.
Whether you are a fan of classical music, minimalism, or sacred choral works, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The combination of Schnittke's dramatic and expressive style with Pärt's meditative and transcendent approach makes for a compelling and thought-provoking collection. Dive into the world of these two master composers and let their music inspire and uplift you.
2018 BIS2018 BIS
Tracks
Psalms of Repentance: No. 1, Adam Sat Weeping at the Gates of ParadiseAlfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 2, O Wilderness, Gather Me to Your Silent and Gentle LapAlfred Schnittke, Raul Mikson, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 3, That Is Why I Live in PovertyAlfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 4, My Soul, Why Are You in a State of Sin?Alfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 5, O Man, Doomed and WretchedAlfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 6, When They Beheld the Ship That Suddenly CameAlfred Schnittke, Maria Melaha, Karolina Kriis, Marianne Pärna, Ave Hännikäinen, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 7, Oh My Soul, Why Are You Not Afraid?Alfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 8, If You Wish to Overcome Unending SorrowAlfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 9, I Have Reflected on My Life as a MonkAlfred Schnittke, Raul Mikson, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 10, Christian People, Gather Together!Alfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 11, I Entered This Life of Tears a Naked InfantAlfred Schnittke, Raul Mikson, Toomas Tohert, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 12, (Wordless Humming)Alfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
MagnificatArvo Pärt, Kaia Urb, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Nunc DimittisArvo Pärt, Kaia Urb, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
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