Penderecki: Choral Works, Vol. 2

Krzysztof Penderecki, a titan of contemporary classical music, invites you into the sacred and profound world of his choral works with the release of "Penderecki: Choral Works, Vol. 2." This album, released on July 1, 2014, under the DUX label, is a testament to Penderecki's mastery of the requiem and avant-garde genres, offering a spiritual and artistic journey through his most evocative compositions.

The album is a rich tapestry of religious themes, featuring selections from Penderecki's Missa Brevis, Symphony No. 7, "7 Gates of Jerusalem," Utrenja, Pt. II, "The Resurrection of Christ," and Kadisz, alongside powerful settings of Psalms from the Davidic tradition. Each piece is a testament to Penderecki's unique ability to blend the sacred with the avant-garde, creating a sound that is both timeless and innovative.

The Missa Brevis, with its traditional Latin text, is rendered in a contemporary style that reflects Penderecki's signature use of cluster chords and microtonality. The Symphony No. 7, "7 Gates of Jerusalem," includes the hauntingly beautiful "Iz glubiny" sung in Slavonic, offering a glimpse into Penderecki's deep spiritual and cultural roots. The Utrenja, Pt. II, "The Resurrection of Christ," is a powerful exploration of the resurrection narrative, while the Kadisz offers a moving setting of the traditional Jewish prayer.

The album also includes Penderecki's settings of Psalms 28, 30, 43, and 143, each a profound meditation on faith and divine intervention. These works showcase Penderecki's ability to convey deep emotional and spiritual resonance through his music.

With a duration of 42 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful collection that highlights Penderecki's contributions to the choral repertoire. Conducted by the composer himself, the performances are brought to life by the Polish Chamber Choir and Krzysztof Stachowski, with Jan Łukaszewski at the helm. This album is a must-listen for anyone seeking to explore the depths of Penderecki's musical genius and his enduring impact on the world of classical music.