Lopes-Graça: Songs & Folk Songs, Vol. 2

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of choral music with Fernando Lopes-Graça's "Songs & Folk Songs, Vol. 2," released on Naxos. This captivating album, released on July 9, 2021, showcases Lopes-Graça's mastery of blending traditional folk melodies with sophisticated choral arrangements. Spanning a diverse range of cultural influences, the album features works inspired by Greek, Czech, Slovak, and Portuguese folk traditions, as well as original compositions by Lopes-Graça himself.

The album opens with "7 Vieilles chansons grecques, Op. 58," a collection of seven Greek folk songs that transport listeners to the sun-drenched landscapes of Greece. Each piece is imbued with the rustic charm and lyrical beauty of traditional Greek music. Following this, the album delves into the poignant and evocative "3 Canções do 25 de Abril," a tribute to the Carnation Revolution in Portugal, with texts that celebrate freedom and love.

Lopes-Graça's "3 Poemas em prosa, Op. 7" offers a more introspective journey, setting to music three prose poems that explore themes of love, longing, and the passage of time. The album also includes "10 Chansons populaires tchèques et slovaques, Op. 67," a vibrant collection of Czech and Slovak folk songs that highlight the rich musical heritage of Central Europe.

Throughout the album, Lopes-Graça's compositions and arrangements demonstrate his deep respect for folk traditions and his ability to infuse them with a contemporary choral sensibility. The performances are marked by their technical precision, expressive depth, and the seamless blending of voices, making this album a testament to the enduring power of choral music. With a duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, "Songs & Folk Songs, Vol. 2" is a rewarding listen for anyone interested in the intersection of folk music and choral artistry.