Noam Sheriff: Revival of the Dead & Genesis

Album Description

"Revival of the Dead & Genesis" is a powerful live album by the renowned composer Noam Sheriff, featuring the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra under the esteemed conductor Zubin Mehta. Released on July 10, 2020, via Pan Classics, this album is a profound exploration of Jewish history and resilience, divided into four movements that chronicle the journey from the diaspora to the Holocaust, culminating in a poignant Kadish and Yizkar, and finally, a celebration of revival and renaissance.

The album opens with "Revival of the Dead: I. Jewish Life in the Diaspora," setting the stage for the historical narrative that unfolds. The second movement, "Revival of the Dead: II. The Holocaust," is a somber reflection on one of history's darkest chapters. The third movement, "Revival of the Dead: III. Kadish and Yizkar," offers a moment of remembrance and prayer. The album concludes with "Revival of the Dead: IV. Revival and Renaissance," a hopeful and uplifting finale.

In addition to these four movements, the album includes "Genesis," a standalone piece that adds depth and variety to the collection. The entire album spans 68 minutes, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience of Noam Sheriff's evocative compositions.

This album is a testament to Noam Sheriff's mastery of orchestral composition and his ability to convey deep historical and cultural narratives through music. The collaboration with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and Zubin Mehta ensures a performance of the highest caliber, making this a significant addition to any classical music collection.

10 juli 2020

2020 Pan Classics

About Noam Sheriff

Noam Sheriff (1935-2018) was a pioneering figure in Israeli music, renowned for his versatility as a composer, conductor, educator, and arranger. Born in Tel Aviv, Sheriff's musical journey took him from studying under Paul Ben-Haim in Israel to learning from Boris Blacher in Berlin and Igor Markevitch in Salzburg. His compositions often blended Eastern and Western musical elements, creating a unique and broadly atonal style that captivated audiences worldwide.

Sheriff's impact on Israeli music is immense. He was the first native-born composer to have a work performed by the Israel Philharmonic, and his "Festival Prelude," conducted by Leonard Bernstein, marked a significant milestone in his career. Throughout his six-decade career, he served as the Artistic Director of the Kibbutz Chamber Orchestra and the Music Director of the Israel Rishon LeZion Symphony Orchestra. His educational contributions were equally profound, as he mentored numerous leading musicians and served as a Professor of Composition and Conducting at the Samuel Rubin Academy of Music at Tel Aviv University.

Sheriff's compositions, such as "Mechaye Hametim" (Revival of the Dead) and "Akeda," showcase his innovative approach to music, fusing traditional and modern elements. His legacy endures through his extensive body of work and the countless musicians he inspired, cementing his place as one of Israel's most influential musical figures.