Mortuos Piango, Vivos Voco: The Essential Works Of Jonathan Harvey

Album Description

"Mortuos Piango, Vivos Voco: The Essential Works of Jonathan Harvey" is a captivating collection of avant-garde compositions by the renowned British composer Jonathan Harvey. Released on October 11, 2013, under the Sargasso label, this album spans a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, featuring nine tracks that showcase Harvey's innovative approach to music.

The album opens with the iconic "Mortuos Plango, Vivos Voco," a groundbreaking work completed in 1980. Commissioned by the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris and realized at IRCAM with the technical assistance of Stanley Haynes and Xavier Rodet, this piece is a seminal work in the realm of electroacoustic music. The title is inspired by an inscription on a bell at Winchester Cathedral, where Harvey’s son had sung in the choir, adding a personal touch to the composition.

Other notable tracks include "Mythic Figures," "Tombeau de Messiaen," and a series of "Imaginings" pieces, each offering a unique sonic experience. The album also features "The Riot," "Other Presences," and "Ritual Melodies," all of which exemplify Harvey's mastery of sound and his ability to blend traditional and electronic elements.

This collection is a testament to Jonathan Harvey's enduring legacy in the world of avant-garde music, offering listeners a rich and immersive auditory experience. Whether you are a seasoned fan of experimental music or a curious newcomer, "Mortuos Piango, Vivos Voco" provides a deep dive into the creative genius of one of the most influential composers of our time.

11 okt 2013

About Jonathan Harvey

Jonathan Harvey was a pioneering British composer renowned for his innovative works that seamlessly blend live instruments with electronics, making him the first British composer to leave a significant mark on Central European audiences. Born in Sutton Coldfield, Harvey's musical journey began as a chorister at St Michael's College, Tenbury, where he honed his skills performing multiple services weekly. His academic pursuits led him to St John's College, Cambridge, where he became a major music scholar, eventually earning several doctorates.

Harvey's compositions are celebrated for their avant-garde approach, pushing the boundaries of traditional music. His extensive body of work includes notable pieces such as 'The Angels' (1994) and numerous plays, among them 'Beautiful Thing', 'Babies', and 'Boom Bang-A-Bang'. Beyond his musical contributions, Harvey also made a significant impact as a professor at the University of Sussex from 1977 until his retirement. His legacy continues to inspire through the Jonathan Harvey Electronic Music Studio, which opened in 2019 to celebrate his enduring influence on contemporary music.