"Moorland Elegies" is a captivating choral work by esteemed Estonian composer Tõnu Kõrvits, released in 2017 under the Ondine label. This 54-minute composition is a profound exploration of the human condition, set against the backdrop of nature's ever-changing moods. The work is scored for mixed choir and string orchestra, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both intimate and expansive.
The album comprises nine elegies, each titled to evoke vivid imagery and atmosphere. From the inviting "Come, Walk with Me" to the reflective "The Night Is Darkening Round Me," and the hopeful "The Starry Night Shall Tidings Bring," Kõrvits weaves a narrative that is both personal and universal. The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, along with soloists Jaanika Kilgi and Marianne Pärna, delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive.
Kõrvits' compositional style is marked by its lyrical beauty and harmonic richness, drawing influences from both traditional Estonian folk music and contemporary classical idioms. "Moorland Elegies" is a testament to his unique voice and his ability to craft music that resonates deeply with listeners. This album is a significant addition to the choral repertoire and a showcase of Kõrvits' artistic vision.
2017 Ondine2017 Ondine
Tracks
Moorland Elegies: No. 1, Come, Walk with MeTõnu Kõrvits, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Risto Joost
Moorland Elegies: No. 2, Silent Is the HouseTõnu Kõrvits, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Risto Joost
Moorland Elegies: No. 3, The Night Is Darkening Round MeTõnu Kõrvits, Marianne Pärna, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Risto Joost
Moorland Elegies: No. 4, Fall, Leaves, FallTõnu Kõrvits, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Risto Joost
Moorland Elegies: No. 5, She Dried Her TearsTõnu Kõrvits, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Risto Joost
Moorland Elegies: No. 6, Moonlight, Summer MoonlightTõnu Kõrvits, Marianne Pärna, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Risto Joost
Moorland Elegies: No. 7, The Sun Has SetTõnu Kõrvits, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Risto Joost
Moorland Elegies: No. 8, The Starry Night Shall Tidings BringTõnu Kõrvits, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Risto Joost
Moorland Elegies: No. 9, Month After MonthTõnu Kõrvits, Jaanika Kilgi, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Risto Joost