Karl Jenkins, the renowned composer, presents a captivating blend of ancient texts and modern composition in "Gloria - Te Deum." Released in 2010, this album is a harmonious fusion of new age, choral, and classical genres, showcasing Jenkins' unique ability to weave together diverse musical and literary traditions. The album features the premiere studio recording of "Gloria," a new choral work commissioned by the Really Big Chorus, alongside his 2008 composition "Te Deum." The performances are brought to life by the enchanting vocals of Hayley Westenra, the powerful London Symphony Orchestra, and the National Youth Choir, under the guidance of readers including Ushma Sheth.
"Gloria - Te Deum" is a journey through sacred texts from various religions and philosophies, including Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Islam. The album opens with "Gloria: I. The Proclamation," featuring the Latin "Gloria in excelsis Deo," followed by readings from the Hindu Bhagavad-gītā. This interfaith dialogue continues throughout the album, with each section of "Gloria" interspersed with readings from different spiritual traditions. The "Te Deum" sections, on the other hand, offer a more traditional choral experience, with powerful hymns of praise and supplication.
The album's duration is a concise 48 minutes, making it an accessible yet profound listening experience. Whether you're a fan of classical music, new age compositions, or simply appreciate the beauty of choral singing, "Gloria - Te Deum" offers a rich and rewarding experience. The album was released under the Decca (UMO) (Classics) label, further cementing its place in the canon of contemporary classical music.
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