Experience the dramatic and evocative power of Niels Wilhelm Gade's "Korsfarerne" (The Crusaders), Op. 50, a sweeping choral and orchestral work that brings to life the tales of the Crusaders. Composed in the Romantic style, this album captures the spirit of adventure, faith, and struggle through its richly textured compositions and vivid storytelling.
Recorded in 1990 by the Aarhus Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Frans Rasmussen, this album features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, and Marianne Rørholm. The performance is a testament to the collaborative brilliance of these artists, who bring depth and passion to each character and scene.
The album is divided into three parts, each depicting a different stage of the Crusaders' journey. From the stark beauty of "In the Desert" to the enchanting allure of "Armida" and the triumphant march towards Jerusalem, every track is a masterclass in orchestration and vocal performance. The chorus and soloists weave together to create a tapestry of sound that is both intimate and grand, reflecting the epic scale of the Crusaders' quest.
"Korsfarerne" is a profound exploration of human endeavor and spiritual longing, set against the backdrop of historical events. Gade's masterful composition, combined with the exquisite performances, makes this album a standout in the classical repertoire. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or new to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
1990 BIS1990 BIS
Tracks
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: I. I Orkene [In the Desert]: Chorus of Pilgrims and WomenNiels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50, I. I Orkene [In the Desert]: Scene [Bass, Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: I. I Orkene [In the Desert]: Crusaders' Song [Tenor, Bass, Chorus]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: I. I Orkene [In the Desert]: Prayer [Bass, Chorus]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: II. Armida: Chorus of the Spirits of DarknessNiels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: II. Armida: Recitative and Aria [Mezzo-soprano]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: II. Armida: Sirens' Chorus [Chorus, Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50, II. Armida: Scene [Mezzo-soprano, Tenor, Chorus]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: III. Mod Jerusalem [Towards Jerusalem]: Crusaders' Chorus. Morning SongNiels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: III. Mod Jerusalem [Towards Jerusalem]: Aria [Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: III. Mod Jerusalem [Towards Jerusalem]: Pilgrims' March [Chorus, Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50, III. Mod Jerusalem [Towards Jerusalem]: Final Scene [Bass, Chorus, Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen