Lauridsen: Nocturnes; Les chansons des roses & Other Choral Works

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Morten Lauridsen's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, released on January 1, 2007, under the Hyperion label. Spanning a total of 64 minutes, this collection showcases the composer's unique ability to blend intimacy and grandeur, making it a standout in the choral genre.

The album opens with Lauridsen's renowned "Mid-Winter Songs," a cycle of five pieces that evoke the quiet intensity and reflective mood of the winter season. Contrasting this is "Les chansons des roses," a set of five intimate songs that delve into the depths of personal introspection, each piece a delicate exploration of the human experience.

The album also features Lauridsen's "Nocturnes," a trio of evocative pieces that capture the serene beauty of the night. Each nocturne is a testament to Lauridsen's skill in crafting music that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Additionally, the album includes standalone works such as "I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes," "O Come, Let Us Sing unto the Lord," and "Ave, dulcissima Maria," each offering a unique perspective on Lauridsen's choral artistry.

Stephen Layton and the acclaimed choir Polyphony bring these works to life with their signature precision and expressive depth, making this album a quintessential collection for fans of choral music and a perfect introduction to Morten Lauridsen's profound musical legacy.

1 januari 2007

℗ 2007 Hyperion Records Limited

About Morten Lauridsen

Morten Lauridsen is a renowned American composer celebrated for his exquisite choral works. Born in Colfax, Washington, in 1943, Lauridsen's musical journey has been marked by a deep commitment to vocal music, making him one of the most performed composers in America. His compositions, known for their sonorous beauty and immaculate craftsmanship, have earned him numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Arts in 2007. Lauridsen served as the composer-in-residence for the Los Angeles Master Chorale from 1994 to 2001 and spent over five decades teaching composition at the USC Thornton School of Music. His seminal work, 'O Magnum Mysterium,' has significantly contributed to his widespread acclaim, solidifying his status as a bright star in the American choral scene.