Immerse yourself in the rich, evocative sounds of Leoš Janáček's masterful compositions with this captivating album, featuring the iconic "Glagolitic Mass" alongside other profound works. Recorded in 2015 at the Bergen Cathedral and released in 2016, this album showcases the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Edward Gardner, accompanied by a stellar cast of vocalists and the Bergen Philharmonic Choir.
The centerpiece of the album is Janáček's monumental "Glagolitic Mass," a powerful and innovative setting of the liturgical text in Old Church Slavonic. This version, edited by Jiří Zahrádka, is a testament to Janáček's unique compositional voice, blending folk influences with modernist techniques. The mass is performed with stunning virtuosity, capturing the work's dramatic intensity and spiritual depth.
Complementing the "Glagolitic Mass" are three diverse and characteristic works. The "Adagio," composed in 1890, is a mournful and introspective piece that highlights Janáček's ability to convey deep emotion through music. The "Zdrávas Maria" (Hail Mary), written in 1904, is a deeply personal and reverent setting of the traditional Marian prayer. The album also includes multiple movements from Janáček's revised 1906 version of the "Otcenáš" (Our Father), showcasing the composer's mastery of Slavonic liturgical text.
The album's performances are marked by their clarity, precision, and expressive power. The Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir deliver a compelling interpretation of Janáček's complex and demanding score, while the soloists bring a sense of individuality and nuance to their respective roles. The recording quality is excellent, capturing the rich textures and dynamic range of the performances.
This album is a treasure trove for fans of Janáček's music, offering a compelling and insightful exploration of his unique compositional style. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of classical music or a newcomer to Janáček's work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2016 Chandos Records2016 Chandos Records
Tracks
Glagolitic Mass, JW III/9: I. Uvod (Introduction)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Sara Jakubiak, Susan Bickley, Stuart Skelton, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Glagolitic Mass, JW III/9: II. Gospodi, pomiluj (Kyrie eleison)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Sara Jakubiak, Susan Bickley, Stuart Skelton, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Glagolitic Mass, JW III/9: III. Slava (Gloria)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Sara Jakubiak, Susan Bickley, Stuart Skelton, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Glagolitic Mass, JW III/9: IV. Veruju (Credo)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Sara Jakubiak, Susan Bickley, Stuart Skelton, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Glagolitic Mass, JW III/9: V. Svet (Sanctus)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Sara Jakubiak, Susan Bickley, Stuart Skelton, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Glagolitic Mass, JW III/9: VI. Agnece Bozij (Agnus Dei)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Sara Jakubiak, Susan Bickley, Stuart Skelton, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Glagolitic Mass, JW III/9: VI. Varhany solo (Organ solo)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Glagolitic Mass, JW III/9: VIII. Intrada. ModeratoLeoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Sara Jakubiak, David Steward, Karstein Askeland, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Adagio, JW VI/5Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Johannes Wik, Karstein Askeland, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Zdravas Maria (Hail Mary), JW II/14Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Johannes Wik, Karstein Askeland, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Otcenáš (Our Father), JW IV/29: Otcenáš (Our Father) (Revised 1906)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Johannes Wik, Karstein Askeland, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Otcenáš (Our Father), JW IV/29: Bud vule tvá (Thy will be done) (Revised 1906)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Johannes Wik, Karstein Askeland, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Otcenáš (Our Father), JW IV/29: Chléb náš vezdejší dej nám dnes (Give us this day our daily bread) (Revised 1906)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Johannes Wik, Karstein Askeland, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Otcenáš (Our Father), JW IV/29: A odpust nám naše viny (And forgive us our trespasses) (Revised 1906)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Johannes Wik, Karstein Askeland, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Otcenáš (Our Father), JW IV/29: Neuvod nás v pokušení (And lead us not into temptation) (Revised 1906)Leoš Janáček, Edward Gardner, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Johannes Wik, Karstein Askeland, Gábor Bretz, Thomas Trotter, Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Leoš Janáček, born in the heart of Moravia, was a composer whose music transcended borders and traditions, forging a unique and modern style inspired by the rich tapestry of Slavic folk music. As a composer, music theorist, folklorist, and teacher, Janáček's work is a testament to his deep connection with his cultural heritage and his innovative spirit. His operas, such as "Jenůfa" and "Káťa Kabanová," are renowned for their emotional depth and distinctive musical language, which often incorporates the rhythms and melodies of Moravian and other Slavic folk tunes. Janáček's compositions, including his powerful "Glagolitic Mass," reflect his progressive approach to music, making him one of the most influential Czech composers of the early 20th century. His legacy continues to inspire, blending tradition with innovation in a way that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Vinylscout
Leoš Janáček
