Kile Smith's "Canticle" is a captivating journey through the depths of human longing and divine love, set to music that is as profound as it is beautiful. This album, released on November 16, 2018, under the Fanfare Cincinnati label, is a testament to Smith's mastery as a Grammy-nominated composer who has earned international acclaim for his distinctive voice in contemporary classical music.
Comprising 18 tracks, "Canticle" is divided into three parts, each exploring different facets of the soul's search for union with the divine. The first part, "The Search for the Beloved," sets the stage with meditative introspection and poignant questions, while the second part, "Preparations for a Perfect Union," builds anticipation and longing. The final part, "Full Union," culminates in a radiant celebration of divine love and unity.
With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a substantial and immersive experience, showcasing Smith's ability to weave intricate musical narratives that resonate deeply with the listener. The piece is scored for SATB choir, baritone solo, and piano, allowing for a rich tapestry of sound that is both intimate and grand.
Smith's work has been praised for its narrative power and emotional depth, and "Canticle" is no exception. This album is a must-listen for fans of contemporary classical music, offering a profound and moving exploration of the human spirit's quest for connection and transcendence. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Kile Smith's work or a newcomer to his compositions, "Canticle" promises an unforgettable musical journey.
Canticle, Pt. 1 "The Search for the Beloved": No. 1, MeditationKile Smith, Tom Guth, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 1 "The Search for the Beloved": No. 2, The Bride. Where Have You Hidden Yourself?Kile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 1 "The Search for the Beloved": No. 3, Question to the CreaturesKile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 1 "The Search for the Beloved": No. 4, Answer of the CreaturesKile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 1 "The Search for the Beloved": No. 5, The Bride. Alas! Who Can Heal Me?Kile Smith, Ellen Graham, Stephen Michael Hanna, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 1 "The Search for the Beloved": No. 6, O Crystal Spring!Kile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 2 "Preparations for a Perfect Union": No. 7, MeditationKile Smith, Tom Guth, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 2 "Preparations for a Perfect Union": No. 8, The Bride. Turn Them Away, O My Beloved!Kile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 2 "Preparations for a Perfect Union": No. 9, The Bridegroom. Return, My Dove!Kile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 2 "Preparations for a Perfect Union": No. 10, My Beloved Is the MountainsKile Smith, Fotina Naumenko, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 2 "Preparations for a Perfect Union": No. 11, The Bridegroom. Swift-Winged BirdsKile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 3 "Full Union": No. 12, MeditationKile Smith, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 3 "Full Union": No. 13, The Bride Has EnteredKile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 3 "Full Union": No. 14, The Bride. Our Bed Is in FlowerKile Smith, Fotina Naumenko, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 3 "Full Union": No. 15, The Little White DoveKile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 3 "Full Union": No. 16, In Solitude She LivedKile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 3 "Full Union": No. 17, The Bride. Let Us RejoiceKile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
Canticle, Pt. 3 "Full Union": No. 18, No One Saw ItKile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Tom Guth, Michaela Luchka Hibbard, Mark Kosmala, Russell Burge, Craig Hella Johnson
AlleluiaKile Smith, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, Craig Hella Johnson
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