Klaus Mertens and Dmitri Grigoriev present 'Cantabo Domino', a sublime collection of vocal music that spans three centuries. Released on 19 November 2021 via Ars Produktion, this SACD album is a masterclass in nuanced interpretation, with Mertens' rich baritone voice bringing depth and emotion to each carefully selected piece.
From the Baroque to the Romantic era, the programme is a thoughtful exploration of the sounds and styles that have shaped the world of choral music. With the accompaniment of the organ, Mertens and Grigoriev create an intimate and perfectly balanced sound, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the intricacies of the music.
The album features a range of works, including pieces by Johannes Brahms, J.S. Bach, and Antonín Dvořák, each one showcasing Mertens' exceptional artistry and technical skill. With his impeccable articulation and expressive singing, he brings a sense of reverence and wonder to the music, making 'Cantabo Domino' a truly unforgettable listening experience.
Clocking in at 1 hour and 13 minutes, this 20-track album is a treasure trove of spiritual and contemplative music, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty and complexity of choral and requiem genres. With its exquisite sound quality and thoughtful programming, 'Cantabo Domino' is a must-have for fans of Klaus Mertens and anyone looking to explore the rich and rewarding world of classical vocal music.
(C) 2021 Ars Produktion(P) 2021 Ars Produktion
Tracks
Cantabo DominoAlessandro Grandi, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
Ach Gott und Herr, BWV 714 (Arr. for Baritone & Organ)Johann Sebastian Bach, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
Kleine geistliche Concerte, Op. 8: Bringt her dem Herren, SWV 283Heinrich Schütz, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
Wer nur den lieben Gott lässt walten, BWV 691 - Wer nur den lieben Gott lässt walten, BWV 647 (Arr. for Baritone & Organ)Johann Sebastian Bach, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
Trio in G Minor, BWV 584Johann Sebastian Bach, Dmitri Grigoriev
Bist du bei mir (Attrib. J.S. Bach's BWV 508)Gottfried Heinrich Stölzel, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
6 Religiöse Gesänge, Op. 157: No. 4, Vater unserJosef Rheinberger, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
Organ Sonata No. 11 in D Minor, Op. 148: II. CantilèneJosef Rheinberger, Dmitri Grigoriev
Elijah, Op. 70, MWV A 25: Es ist genug (Arr. for Baritone & Organ)Felix Mendelssohn, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
2 Geistliche Lieder, Op. 105: No. 1, Ich sehe dich in tausend BildernMax Reger, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
2 Geistliche Lieder, Op. 105: No. 2, Meine Seele ist still zu GottMax Reger, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
Biblical Songs, Op. 99, B. 185 (Excerpts Arr. for Baritone & Organ): No. 1, Oblak a mrákota jest vůkol NěhoAntonín Dvořák, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
Biblical Songs, Op. 99, B. 185 (Excerpts Arr. for Baritone & Organ): No. 4, Hospodin jest můj pastýřAntonín Dvořák, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
11 Chorale Preludes, Op. 122 (Excerpts): No. 5, Schmücke dich, o liebe Seele [Arr. for Baritone & Organ]Johannes Brahms, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
11 Chorale Preludes, Op. 122 (Excerpts): No. 10, Herzlich tut mich verlangen [Arr. for Baritone & Organ]Johannes Brahms, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
11 Chorale Preludes, Op. 122 (Excerpts): No. 8, Es ist ein Ros entsprungenJohannes Brahms, Dmitri Grigoriev
4 Serious Songs, Op. 121 (Arr. for Baritone & Organ): No. 1, Denn es gehet dem MenschenJohannes Brahms, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
4 Serious Songs, Op. 121 (Arr. for Baritone & Organ): No. 2, Ich wandte mich und sahe an alleJohannes Brahms, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
4 Serious Songs, Op. 121 (Arr. for Baritone & Organ): No. 3, O Tod, wie bitter bist duJohannes Brahms, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
4 Serious Songs, Op. 121 (Arr. for Baritone & Organ): No. 4, Wenn ich mit Menschen und mit Engelszungen redeteJohannes Brahms, Klaus Mertens, Dmitri Grigoriev
Klaus Mertens is a renowned German bass and bass-baritone singer celebrated for his profound interpretations of classical music, particularly the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. Born in Kleve in 1949, Mertens began his musical journey at a young age, taking vocal lessons during his school years. His career spans nearly four decades, during which he has recorded nearly 200 CDs, including the complete cantatas of Bach and the works of Dieterich Buxtehude. Mertens' voice is often praised for its unique power of expression, congenial timbre, and keen intuition for text, making him a favorite among critics and audiences alike. His repertoire is vast, encompassing Baroque, Romantic, and modern compositions, as well as folk and art songs. Mertens' performances are not just concerts but immersive experiences that showcase his mastery and deep connection to the music. Whether performing Bach, Mozart, or other composers, Mertens' performances leave a lasting impact, earning him accolades such as the Sächsischer Mozartpreis in 2025.
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Klaus Mertens
