"Geistliche Sommermusik" is a captivating choral album composed by Rudolf Mauersberger, released on October 17, 2017, under the Querstand label. This 54-minute masterpiece is a collection of seven tracks, each a distinct movement of Mauersberger's RMWV 11, a largely a cappella work for large choir, chamber choir, and soloists. The album is a vibrant and diverse setting of hymn stanzas and biblical verses, drawing from the evangelical hymnals.
Mauersberger, known for his work as the Kreuzkantor in Dresden, crafted this piece to celebrate the beauty of nature and the responsibility of humans to honor God's creation. This theme is particularly poignant given the album's composition in the aftermath of World War II. The work is conducted by Ekkehard Klemm, who, as a former Kreuzknabe, sang under Mauersberger's direction.
The album opens with "Introitus" and concludes with "Beschluss," encompassing themes of growth, harvest, litany, comfort, and promise. Each track is a testament to Mauersberger's skill in weaving together complex choral textures and harmonies, creating a rich and immersive listening experience. The album features performances by renowned choirs and soloists, including the Dresdner Kreuzchor and the Chorakademie Dortmund, under the direction of Felix Heitmann. Whether you're a fan of choral music or seeking a profound musical experience, "Geistliche Sommermusik" offers a deeply moving journey through the seasons and the human spirit.