Eric Whitacre's "Deep Field" is a breathtaking choral and orchestral masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of traditional music, blending the grandeur of the cosmos with the power of human voices. Released on November 16, 2018, under the UNQUIET label, this album is a testament to Whitacre's innovative approach to composition and his ability to inspire collaboration on a global scale.
The centerpiece of the album is the 23-minute "Deep Field: Complete Version," which features an astonishing 8,000 voices from 120 countries, united in a virtual choir to create a sound that is as vast and awe-inspiring as the universe itself. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra lends its weight to the composition, providing a rich and dynamic backdrop to the choral arrangements.
Inspired by the iconic images captured by the Hubble Space Telescope, "Deep Field" tells the story of the telescope's journey and the wonders it has revealed. The album's tracks, including "Cathedral of Reason," "The Pillars of Creation," and "Impossible Magnitude," each draw from the themes of exploration, discovery, and the infinite possibilities of the cosmos.
The album is not just a collection of songs but a pioneering audiovisual collaboration with NASA and the Space Telescope Science Institute. The visual element, directed by Eric Whitacre, brings a fresh dimension to the music, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the intersection of art and science.
With a duration of just under 37 minutes, "Deep Field" is a powerful and evocative exploration of the human experience and our place in the universe. It is a testament to Eric Whitacre's visionary approach to music and his ability to inspire and unite people from all corners of the globe.