Duruflé: Requiem & Messe Cum jubilo

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the profound and serene choral works of Maurice Duruflé with this exquisite album, "Duruflé: Requiem & Messe Cum jubilo." Released in 1995, this collection showcases Duruflé's masterful compositional style, blending the richness of Gregorian chant with the elegance of 20th-century choral writing. The album features the iconic "Requiem, Op. 9," a deeply moving work that pays homage to the traditional Latin Mass, and the joyous "Messe Cum jubilo, Op. 11," which radiates with a sense of celebration and reverence.

The album begins with the hauntingly beautiful "Requiem," a piece that has become a staple in the choral repertoire. Duruflé's use of modal harmonies and his sensitive orchestration create a sense of timelessness and spiritual depth. The "Messe Cum jubilo" follows, offering a contrast with its lively rhythms and uplifting melodies. The album also includes a selection of motets and other sacred works that further demonstrate Duruflé's unique voice and his deep connection to the liturgical traditions of the Catholic Church.

Performed by the renowned Westminster Cathedral Choir, this recording is a testament to the choir's exceptional skill and the conductor's insightful interpretation. The album's duration of 70 minutes allows for a comprehensive exploration of Duruflé's choral masterpieces, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Duruflé's music or a newcomer to his works, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

1 maart 1995

℗ 1995 Hyperion Records Limited

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.