Ben-Hur / King of Kings: The Twelve Choruses

Experience the majestic and profound choral works of Miklós Rózsa with "Ben-Hur / King of Kings: The Twelve Choruses." This captivating album, released on June 10, 2014, under the Intrada label, showcases Rózsa's masterful compositions from two of his most iconic film scores: "Ben-Hur" and "King of Kings." Spanning 49 minutes, this collection features 13 tracks that highlight Rózsa's ability to blend classical training with cinematic grandeur.

The album opens with "The Christ Theme" from "Ben-Hur," setting the stage for a journey through some of Rózsa's most challenging and evocative choral pieces. Each track, such as "Star of Bethlehem" and "The Nativity," is a testament to Rózsa's skill in creating music that is both deeply moving and technically impressive. The Winchester Cathedral Chamber Choir brings these compositions to life with their exquisite vocals, making this album a standout in Rózsa's discography.

"Ben-Hur / King of Kings: The Twelve Choruses" is not just a collection of songs; it is a celebration of Rózsa's enduring legacy in film music. Whether you are a fan of classical choral music or a cinephile appreciating the artistry behind iconic film scores, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Dive into the timeless beauty of Rózsa's compositions and discover the depth and complexity of his musical genius.

Miklós Rózsa, a Hungarian-American composer, is celebrated for his prolific and influential career in both film and classical music. Born in Budapest, Rózsa's journey took him through Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and ultimately to the United States, where he spent the majority of his professional life. His extensive filmography includes nearly one hundred scores, with standout works for iconic films such as "The Thief of Baghdad," "Ben-Hur," and "Spellbound." Rózsa's score for "Ben-Hur" remains one of the longest and most celebrated in cinematic history. Despite his immense success in film, Rózsa remained deeply committed to concert music, composing several concertos and maintaining what he referred to as his "double life." His ability to seamlessly blend his classical training with the demands of film scoring has left an indelible mark on both industries, earning him three Academy Awards and a lasting legacy as one of the most gifted composers of his generation.