"Music for Remembrance: Duruflé Requiem & Other Works" is a profound and moving collection of memorial music, curated and conducted by the esteemed James O'Donnell and performed by the renowned Choir of Westminster Abbey. Released on September 28, 2014, under the Hyperion label, this album is a testament to the power of music to evoke remembrance and reflection.
The centerpiece of the album is Maurice Duruflé's "Requiem, Op. 9," a deeply cherished work of the 20th century. Duruflé's masterpiece is presented here in an astoundingly beautiful performance, showcasing the choir's exceptional skill and the conductor's nuanced direction. The requiem is complemented by a selection of other significant works, including "Lord, Thou Hast Been Our Refuge" (Psalm 90), "3 Prayers of Dietrich Bonhoeffer," "Take Him, Earth, for Cherishing," and "The Peace That Surpasseth Understanding."
This album is a program of music composed in the shadow of two World Wars, reflecting the somber and contemplative mood of the era. The performances are marked by their clarity, precision, and emotional depth, making this recording a standout in the genre of choral and sacred music. With a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, "Music for Remembrance" offers a comprehensive and immersive listening experience, ideal for those seeking solace, reflection, or simply the enjoyment of exquisite choral artistry.
Requiem, Op. 9: I. IntroitMaurice Duruflé, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Britten Sinfonia, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell
Requiem, Op. 9: II. KyrieMaurice Duruflé, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Britten Sinfonia, James O'Donnell, Robert Quinney
Requiem, Op. 9: III. Domine Jesu ChristeMaurice Duruflé, Roderick Williams, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Britten Sinfonia
Requiem, Op. 9: IV. SanctusMaurice Duruflé, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, Britten Sinfonia, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Requiem, Op. 9: V. Pie JesuMaurice Duruflé, Christine Rice, Caroline Dearnley, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, Britten Sinfonia
Requiem, Op. 9: VI. Agnus DeiMaurice Duruflé, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, Britten Sinfonia, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Requiem, Op. 9: VII. Lux aeternaMaurice Duruflé, James O'Donnell, Britten Sinfonia, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Robert Quinney
Requiem, Op. 9: VIII. Libera meMaurice Duruflé, James O'Donnell, Britten Sinfonia, Roderick Williams, Robert Quinney, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Requiem, Op. 9: IX. In paradisumMaurice Duruflé, James O'Donnell, Britten Sinfonia, Robert Quinney, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Lord, Thou Hast Been Our Refuge (Psalm 90)Ralph Vaughan Williams, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
3 Prayers of Dietrich Bonhoeffer: I. Morning PrayersPhilip Moore, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
3 Prayers of Dietrich Bonhoeffer: II. Prayers in the Time of DistressPhilip Moore, James O'Donnell, William Balkwill, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
3 Prayers of Dietrich Bonhoeffer: III. Evening PrayersPhilip Moore, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Take Him, Earth, for CherishingHerbert Howells, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
The Peace That Surpasseth UnderstandingJohn Tavener, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
James O'Donnell is a renowned musician specialising in choral music, with a particular focus on medieval, requiem, and Gregorian chant genres. His work showcases a deep understanding and appreciation of these traditional forms, creating a unique and captivating sound.
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James O'Donnell
