Tigran Mansurian: Requiem

Album Description

Tigran Mansurian's "Requiem" is a profound and deeply resonant work, dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Armenian Genocide that took place from 1915 to 1917. This tragic event, which claimed the lives of approximately one million people, including members of Mansurian's own family, serves as the poignant inspiration behind this powerful composition.

Commissioned by the Münchener Kammerorchester and the RIAS Kammerchor Berlin, this Requiem was recorded in January 2016 at the Jesus-Christus-Kirche in Dahlem, Berlin. The album features the RIAS Chamber Choir, the Munich Chamber Orchestra, and is conducted by Alexander Lieb, with vocal performances by soprano Anja Petersen and baritone Andrew Redmond.

Mansurian's Requiem is a unique blend of Continental and Orthodox musical traditions, seamlessly weaving together the Latin text of the traditional Requiem Mass with the rich, modal sounds of Armenian liturgical music. The result is a hauntingly beautiful and deeply moving piece that pays tribute to the past while resonating with a timeless, universal appeal.

The album, released on March 17, 2017, under the ECM New Series label, spans eight tracks and a duration of 45 minutes. It is a testament to Mansurian's mastery of composition and his ability to evoke profound emotions through music. This Requiem is not just a work of art but a historical and cultural artifact, offering listeners a deep connection to the Armenian experience and the enduring legacy of those who suffered during the genocide.

17 mrt 2017

℗ 2017 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Tigran Mansurian

Tigran Mansurian, born in 1939 in Beirut to Armenian refugees, is a seminal figure in Armenian music, known for his profound and evocative compositions. Settling in Armenia at the age of eight, Mansurian has become a leading voice in his adopted country's musical landscape. His works often serve as a poignant act of cultural resistance, preserving and revitalizing Armenian musical traditions amidst the backdrop of Sovietization. Mansurian's Requiem, dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Armenian Genocide, stands as a powerful testament to his commitment to his cultural heritage. His music, which spans orchestral, chamber, and solo works, has been celebrated internationally, with notable performances and recordings that highlight his unique voice and deep connection to his roots. Mansurian's compositions invite listeners to experience the rich tapestry of Armenian music, imbued with a sense of history, resilience, and emotional depth.