Harvey: Passion and Resurrection

Album Description

"Harvey: Passion and Resurrection" is a profound and captivating work by the esteemed British composer Jonathan Harvey, released in 2008. This avant-garde masterpiece is a unique blend of sacred music and operatic elements, making it a standout piece in Harvey's illustrious career. The album is a setting of a 12th-century Latin passion play, translated by Michael Wadsworth, and is often hailed as one of the first operatic settings of the passion story since the Middle Ages.

The album features the BBC Singers and Sinfonia 21, conducted by Martin Neary, who commissioned and premiered the work at Winchester Cathedral in 1981. The composition is a significant part of Harvey's musical legacy, showcasing his innovative approach to liturgical drama and his deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary musical forms.

"Harvey: Passion and Resurrection" spans 15 tracks, with the majority dedicated to the "Passion" section, followed by the "Resurrection" part. The album's duration is approximately 1 hour and 24 minutes, providing a rich and immersive listening experience. The work has been praised for its outstanding sacred themes and has been performed over twenty times since its premiere, including a BBC television film.

This album is a testament to Jonathan Harvey's genius and his significant contributions to the world of contemporary classical music. It's a compelling exploration of faith, history, and musical innovation, making it a valuable addition to any discerning music lover's collection.

29 jul 2008

2008 SARGASSO

About Jonathan Harvey

Jonathan Harvey was a pioneering British composer renowned for his innovative works that seamlessly blend live instruments with electronics, making him the first British composer to leave a significant mark on Central European audiences. Born in Sutton Coldfield, Harvey's musical journey began as a chorister at St Michael's College, Tenbury, where he honed his skills performing multiple services weekly. His academic pursuits led him to St John's College, Cambridge, where he became a major music scholar, eventually earning several doctorates.

Harvey's compositions are celebrated for their avant-garde approach, pushing the boundaries of traditional music. His extensive body of work includes notable pieces such as 'The Angels' (1994) and numerous plays, among them 'Beautiful Thing', 'Babies', and 'Boom Bang-A-Bang'. Beyond his musical contributions, Harvey also made a significant impact as a professor at the University of Sussex from 1977 until his retirement. His legacy continues to inspire through the Jonathan Harvey Electronic Music Studio, which opened in 2019 to celebrate his enduring influence on contemporary music.