Milhaud: Service Sacre

Dive into the profound and sacred world of Jewish liturgical music with Darius Milhaud's "Service Sacré," a masterful composition that stands as one of the twentieth century's most authentic works in this genre. Composed in 1947 for San Francisco’s Temple Emanu-El, this album is a testament to Milhaud's deep connection to his Jewish heritage, particularly poignant in the aftermath of the Holocaust. The album spans over an hour, featuring 26 tracks that encapsulate the essence of a Sabbath morning service, enriched with additional prayers for Friday evenings.

"Service Sacré" is a meticulous blend of neoclassical and chamber music elements, performed by an ensemble of soloists, the Czech Philharmonic Choir, and conducted by Schwarz. The album includes iconic pieces such as "Ma Tovu," "Sh'ma," "V'ahavta," and "Adon Olam," each rendered with a reverence and musicality that honors their sacred origins. The inclusion of both spoken and sung Kaddish, along with the universal prayer, underscores the album's spiritual depth and universality.

This recording, released by the Milken Family Foundation in 2004, is a landmark in the preservation and celebration of Jewish musical heritage. It features the baritone vocals of Yaron Windmueller and the rich, resonant tones of the Prague Philharmonic Choir, creating a sonic experience that is both intimate and grand. Whether you are a devotee of classical music or a seeker of spiritual resonance, "Service Sacré" offers a profound and enriching listening experience.

Darius Milhaud, a titan of 20th-century French music, was a composer, conductor, and educator whose prolific output and eclectic style have left an indelible mark on the classical and jazz worlds. Born in Marseille in 1892, Milhaud was a founding member of Les Six, a group of avant-garde composers who sought to break away from the romantic excesses of their predecessors. His music is renowned for its innovative use of polytonality, a technique that allows multiple keys to sound simultaneously, creating a rich, complex harmonic landscape.

Milhaud's compositions are a vibrant tapestry of influences, drawing from jazz, Brazilian music, and Provençal folklore. His works span a wide range of genres, including ballets, operas, and chamber music, each imbued with his distinctive voice. Notable works include "Le boeuf sur le toit," "La création du monde," and his 12 symphonies. Throughout his career, Milhaud mentored a generation of composers, including Burt Bacharach, Dave Brubeck, Philip Glass, and Steve Reich, cementing his legacy as a teacher and innovator. His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, a testament to his enduring genius.