Angels

Album Description

"Angels," released by British composer Jonathan Harvey, is a captivating exploration of avant-garde music, showcasing Harvey's unique ability to blend live instruments with electronics. This 49-minute album, released on January 1, 2007, under Soupir Editions, features a mix of choral works and instrumental pieces that highlight Harvey's innovative compositional style.

The album opens with "The Angels," a piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection, followed by the four movements of "Missa Brevis," which demonstrate Harvey's mastery of choral writing. Tracks like "Marahi" and "How could the soul take flight" offer a contrast with their instrumental focus, while "Dum transisset Sabbatum" and "Sweet: Winterhart" provide a serene conclusion to the album.

Harvey, known for his award-winning contemporary music, has crafted a work that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. "Angels" is not just a collection of songs but a testament to Harvey's artistic vision and his ability to push the boundaries of classical music. Whether you're a fan of avant-garde music or simply looking to expand your musical horizons, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

1 januari 2007

2007 Soupir Editions

About Jonathan Harvey

Jonathan Harvey was a pioneering British composer renowned for his innovative works that seamlessly blend live instruments with electronics, making him the first British composer to leave a significant mark on Central European audiences. Born in Sutton Coldfield, Harvey's musical journey began as a chorister at St Michael's College, Tenbury, where he honed his skills performing multiple services weekly. His academic pursuits led him to St John's College, Cambridge, where he became a major music scholar, eventually earning several doctorates.

Harvey's compositions are celebrated for their avant-garde approach, pushing the boundaries of traditional music. His extensive body of work includes notable pieces such as 'The Angels' (1994) and numerous plays, among them 'Beautiful Thing', 'Babies', and 'Boom Bang-A-Bang'. Beyond his musical contributions, Harvey also made a significant impact as a professor at the University of Sussex from 1977 until his retirement. His legacy continues to inspire through the Jonathan Harvey Electronic Music Studio, which opened in 2019 to celebrate his enduring influence on contemporary music.