Leonard Bernstein's "MASS" is a monumental work that transcends the boundaries of traditional classical music, offering a profound and immersive experience that reflects the composer's lifelong advocacy for unity and love. Originally premiered in 1971, this seminal piece is a testament to Bernstein's creative genius and his ability to blend various musical styles and theatrical elements into a cohesive and powerful narrative.
The album, released on CapriccioNR in 2020, spans nearly two hours and features a rich tapestry of orchestral and choral compositions. It includes iconic pieces such as "A Simple Song," "Gloria in excelsis Deo," and "The Lord’s Prayer," each showcasing Bernstein's mastery of melody and harmony. The work is not just a musical composition but a dramatic event that engages the listener with its multimedia elements and religious themes.
"MASS" is a multifaceted exploration of faith, doubt, and the human condition. It features a diverse range of vocal and instrumental performances, including solos, choruses, and orchestral arrangements that create a dynamic and engaging listening experience. The album's tracklist is a journey through the liturgical structure of the Catholic Mass, interspersed with contemporary reflections and personal introspections.
Bernstein's "MASS" is a landmark in the world of classical music, celebrated for its innovative approach and deep spiritual resonance. Whether you are a longtime fan of Leonard Bernstein or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a unique and enriching experience that highlights the composer's enduring legacy.
2020 CapriccioNR2020 CapriccioNR
Tracks
MASS: No 1, Antiphon. Kyrie eleisonLeonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 2, Hymn & Psalm "A Simple Song"Leonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 3, Rensory. AlleluiaLeonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 4, Prefatory PrayersLeonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, Schülerinnen und Schüler der Opernschule der Wiener Staatsoper, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 5, Thrice-Triple Canon. Domionus vobiscumLeonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Schülerinnen und Schüler der Opernschule der Wiener Staatsoper, Company of Music, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 6, In nomine PatrisLeonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, Schülerinnen und Schüler der Opernschule der Wiener Staatsoper, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 7, Prayer for the Congregation "Almighty Father"Leonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 8, EpiphanyLeonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 9, ConfiteorLeonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 10, Trope "I Don’t Know"Leonard Bernstein, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 11, Trope "Easy"Leonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 12, Meditation ILeonard Bernstein, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 13, Gloria tibiLeonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Schülerinnen und Schüler der Opernschule der Wiener Staatsoper, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 14, Gloria in excelsis DeoLeonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 15, Trope "Half of the People"Leonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 16, Trope "Thank You"Leonard Bernstein, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 17, Meditation IILeonard Bernstein, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 18, Epistle "The Word of the Lord"Leonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 19, Gospel-Sermon "God Said"Leonard Bernstein, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 20, CredoLeonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 21, Trope "Non Credo"Leonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 22, Trope "Hurry"Leonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 23, Trope "World"Leonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 24, Trope "I Believe in God"Leonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 25, De profundis, Pt. 1 (Meditation III)Leonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 26, De profundis, Pt. 2 (Offertory)Leonard Bernstein, Wiener Singakademie, Schülerinnen und Schüler der Opernschule der Wiener Staatsoper, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 27, The Lord’s Prayer "Our Father"Leonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Unknown Artist
MASS: No. 28, Trope "I Go On"Leonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 29, SanctusLeonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, Schülerinnen und Schüler der Opernschule der Wiener Staatsoper, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 30, Agnus DeiLeonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 31, Fraction "Things Get Broken"Leonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Russell Davies
MASS: No. 32, Pax Communion "Secret Songs"Leonard Bernstein, Vojtech Dyk, Wiener Singakademie, Company of Music, ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Unknown Artist, Dennis Russell Davies
Leonard Bernstein, a titan of 20th-century music, was an American maestro whose genius spanned conducting, composing, and performing. Born in 1918, Bernstein's career was a whirlwind of creativity and innovation, earning him a staggering 16 Grammy Awards and numerous other accolades, including Emmy and Tony Awards. He was the first American-born conductor to achieve international acclaim, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music world. Bernstein's compositions, such as the iconic "West Side Story" and "Candide," continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Beyond his musical prowess, Bernstein was also a dedicated educator and humanitarian, using his platform to inspire and enlighten. His legacy endures as one of the most influential figures in music history.
Vinylscout
Leonard Bernstein
