Ešenvalds: Northern Lights, Stars & Other Choral Works

Experience the enchanting world of Ēriks Ešenvalds with "Northern Lights, Stars & Other Choral Works," a captivating collection of choral pieces that showcase the young Latvian composer's unique voice and growing international acclaim. This album, released on Hyperion in 2015, features a diverse range of works commissioned from across the United States, England, and northern Europe, each offering a distinct blend of ethereal beauty and practical choral craftsmanship.

At the heart of the album lies the stunning "Northern Lights," a piece inspired by the mesmerizing aurora borealis, which Ešenvalds masterfully translates into sound through a combination of a Latvian folk song and scientific observations of the phenomenon. The album also includes the serene "Stars," the hauntingly beautiful "Only in Sleep," and the traditional "Amazing Grace," each piece demonstrating Ešenvalds' ability to create evocative and engaging choral music.

Performed by the renowned Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge, under the direction of Stephen Layton, the album's 16 tracks offer a rich tapestry of sounds and textures, from the delicate interplay of voices in "The Heavens' Flock" to the powerful harmonies of "Trinity Te Deum." The album also features the Merton College Service, a setting of the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis that showcases Ešenvalds' skill in writing for choir and organ.

With a duration of just over an hour, "Northern Lights, Stars & Other Choral Works" is an essential addition to any choral music lover's collection, offering a unique perspective on the world of contemporary choral composition. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ešenvalds' work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.