Duruflé: Requiem, Four Motets, Messe Cum Jubilo

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and serene world of Maurice Duruflé's choral masterpieces with this exquisite album, "Duruflé: Requiem, Four Motets, Messe Cum Jubilo." Released in 2016, this collection showcases the profound musical genius of Duruflé, a composer renowned for his deep spiritual connection to Gregorian chant and his innovative approach to choral composition.

The album opens with Duruflé's iconic "Requiem, Op. 9," presented in its 1961 version, a work that masterfully blends the ancient sounds of Gregorian chant with the rich harmonies of the 20th century. The Requiem is performed by the esteemed King's College Choir of Cambridge, accompanied by the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, under the direction of Stephen Cleobury. This rendition is particularly notable for its intimate orchestration, making it an ideal choice for both concert halls and sacred spaces.

Following the Requiem, the album features the "Quatre Motets sur des thèmes grégoriens, Op. 10," four exquisite motets that further explore Duruflé's fascination with Gregorian themes. Each motet is a testament to the composer's ability to evoke a sense of timeless spirituality through his music.

The album concludes with the "Messe 'Cum Jubilo', Op. 11," a joyful and uplifting mass setting for male voices. This work, like the Requiem, draws inspiration from Gregorian chant, but with a more celebratory spirit, reflecting the festive nature of the Kyriale melody on which it is based.

With a total duration of just over an hour, this album offers a comprehensive journey through some of Duruflé's most beloved choral works. The performances are impeccable, capturing the subtle nuances and profound depths of Duruflé's compositions. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Duruflé's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to inspire and uplift.

9 sep 2016

2016 King's College, Cambridge

About Maurice Duruflé

Maurice Duruflé, born in 1902 in Louviers, France, was a multifaceted musical genius known for his compositions, organ playing, and teaching. His works, though few in number, are deeply revered for their unique blend of Gregorian chant and modern harmonies. Duruflé's most celebrated piece, the Requiem, is a masterful fusion of ancient liturgical music and 20th-century compositional techniques. His musical journey began under the guidance of his father, a professional harpist, and continued at the prestigious Paris Conservatory, where he studied with notable figures like Paul Dukas and Charles Tournemire. Duruflé's influence extends beyond his compositions; he was also a respected professor at the Conservatoire de Paris, shaping the next generation of musicians. His legacy endures through his evocative choral works and organ pieces, which continue to captivate audiences with their profound emotional depth and technical brilliance.