Frank Martin's "Golgotha," released in 2010, is a profound and powerful choral work that brings to life the Passion of Christ through ten meticulously crafted passages. Inspired by Rembrandt's etching "The Three Crosses," Martin, a Swiss composer, weaves together texts from the four Gospels and Augustine's Confessions to create a deeply moving oratorio that culminates in the Resurrection. The album, spanning 94 minutes, is a testament to Martin's ability to draw from the spirit of Bach, blending traditional forms with his unique compositional voice.
Performed with precision and passion, "Golgotha" offers a rich tapestry of choral and orchestral music that is both intimate and grand. The work is divided into two parts, each exploring different aspects of the Easter story, from the triumphant entry into Jerusalem to the solemnity of the Crucifixion and the triumph of the Resurrection. Martin's mastery of choral writing is evident throughout, with each section of the work showcasing his ability to convey deep emotional and spiritual depth.
Recorded in stereo and spread across two discs, this album provides a comprehensive and immersive experience of Martin's monumental work. Whether you are a seasoned fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, "Golgotha" offers a compelling exploration of one of the most significant stories in Christian tradition, brought to life through the brilliant compositional skills of Frank Martin.
2010 harmonia mundi s.a.2010 harmonia mundi s.a.
Tracks
Golgotha, Première Partie: I. Chœur d'introductionFrank Martin, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam
Golgotha, Première Partie: II. Les RameauxFrank Martin, Judith Gauthier, Marianne Beate Kielland, Adrian Thompson, Mattijs van de Woerd, Konstantin Wolf, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam
Golgotha, Première Partie: III. Le discours au templeFrank Martin, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam, Judith Gauthier, Mattijs van de Woerd
Golgotha, Première Partie: IV. La Sainte CèneFrank Martin, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam, Adrian Thompson, Mattijs van de Woerd, Konstantin Wolf
Golgotha, Première Partie: V. GethsémanéFrank Martin, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam, Judith Gauthier, Marianne Beate Kielland, Adrian Thompson, Mattijs van de Woerd, Konstantin Wolf
Golgotha, Seconde Partie: VI. MéditationFrank Martin, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam, Marianne Beate Kielland
Golgotha, Seconde Partie: VII. Jésus devant le SanhédrinFrank Martin, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam, Judith Gauthier, Marianne Beate Kielland, Adrian Thompson, Mattijs van de Woerd, Konstantin Wolf
Golgotha, Seconde Partie: VIII. Jésus devant PilateFrank Martin, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam, Adrian Thompson, Mattijs van de Woerd, Konstantin Wolf
Golgotha, Seconde Partie: IX. Le CalvaireFrank Martin, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam, Adrian Thompson, Mattijs van de Woerd
Golgotha, Seconde Partie: X. La RésurrectionFrank Martin, Daniel Reuss, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Cappella Amsterdam, Judith Gauthier, Marianne Beate Kielland, Adrian Thompson, Mattijs van de Woerd, Konstantin Wolf