Penderecki: Sacred Choral Works

Celebrating the 90th birthday of the esteemed Polish composer Krzysztof Penderecki, "Penderecki: Sacred Choral Works" is a profound collection of sacred choral pieces that showcase the composer's unique avant-garde style and deep spiritual themes. Released on November 3, 2023, by Ondine, this album features the Latvian Radio Choir under the direction of Sigvards Kļava, delivering a powerful and moving performance that spans a variety of sacred genres, from requiems to masses and passion settings.

The album opens with the serene and uplifting "O gloriosa virginum," followed by the hauntingly beautiful third movement of Penderecki's Symphony No. 7, "De profundis." The St. Luke Passion is represented by two powerful excerpts, "In pulverem mortis" and "Miserere mei, Deus," which highlight Penderecki's ability to convey deep emotion and drama through choral writing. The "Song of Cherubim" and "Veni creator" offer moments of contemplation and reverence, while the "Polish Requiem" and "Missa brevis" provide a sweeping journey through some of Penderecki's most celebrated sacred works.

With a duration of just under an hour, this album is a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Penderecki's sacred choral output. The Latvian Radio Choir's precise and expressive performance, coupled with Penderecki's innovative and evocative compositions, makes "Penderecki: Sacred Choral Works" a standout release in the classical choral genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Penderecki's music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling introduction to the sacred side of one of the 20th century's most influential composers.