Kilar: Magnificat - Victoria

Wojciech Kilar's "Kilar: Magnificat - Victoria" is a profound and captivating exploration of sacred choral music, released posthumously in 2013. This album showcases Kilar's mastery of composition, blending contemporary sensibilities with traditional choral forms. The centerpiece of the album is Kilar's "Magnificat," a setting of the biblical canticle of Mary, which is performed with stunning clarity and depth by the chorus and soloists. The work is divided into several movements, each bringing a unique texture and mood, from the solemn "Quia respexit humilitatem" to the triumphant "Suscepit Israel."

The album also includes "Victoria," a piece that adds a layer of historical resonance, as it is a setting of the traditional Latin text by Tomás Luis de Victoria. This juxtaposition of Kilar's modern compositional techniques with the timeless beauty of Victoria's work creates a rich and engaging listening experience.

Wojciech Kilar, born in 1932 and passing away in 2013, was a renowned Polish composer known for his diverse body of work, including film scores and orchestral pieces. His contributions to the world of music are vast, and "Kilar: Magnificat - Victoria" stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. The album, released under the DUX label, spans approximately 55 minutes and offers a serene and reflective journey through some of Kilar's most profound choral compositions. This album is a beautiful addition to any classical music collection, offering both familiarity and innovation in equal measure.