Opera Omnia XX - Vocal Works 10 - Dietrich Buxtehude

Dive into the rich tapestry of Baroque choral music with Dietrich Buxtehude's "Opera Omnia XX - Vocal Works 10," the penultimate volume in a monumental series dedicated to the composer's complete works. This double album, released on October 10, 2014, under the Challenge Classics label, offers a comprehensive exploration of Buxtehude's vocal masterpieces, performed by the esteemed Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra and Choir under the direction of Ton Koopman.

Spanning over two hours and thirty-three minutes, this collection features nineteen tracks that showcase Buxtehude's mastery of choral composition. From the triumphant "Walts Gott, mein Werk ich lasse" to the serene "O Jesu mi dulcissime," each piece is a testament to the composer's profound musical insight and technical brilliance. Highlights include the celebratory "Auf, Saiten, auf! Laßt euren Schall erklingen!" and the contemplative "Jesu, meine Freude," both of which demonstrate Buxtehude's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.

This album is not just a collection of songs but a journey through the vocal and instrumental works of one of the most influential composers of the late Baroque era. Buxtehude's compositions, recorded with meticulous attention to detail, offer a unique opportunity to experience the music of a composer who significantly influenced Johann Sebastian Bach. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rewarding listening experience, filled with the timeless beauty and complexity of Buxtehude's choral works.

Dietrich Buxtehude, a luminary of the Baroque era, stands as one of the most significant composers of the 17th century. Born around 1637 in what is now Denmark or Germany, Buxtehude's prowess as an organist was legendary, drawing even the young Johann Sebastian Bach to travel nearly 300 miles just to meet him. His compositions, spanning both vocal and instrumental genres, are quintessential examples of the North German organ school and have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. Buxtehude's influence can be heard in the works of later masters like Bach and Handel, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in the evolution of Western music. His works, such as the emotive "Membra Jesu Nostri" and the spirited "In dulci jubilo," continue to captivate audiences with their depth and innovation.