Immerse yourself in the profound and spiritual depths of Sergei Rachmaninoff's masterful composition with this exquisite recording of the All-Night Vigil, Op. 37. Composed in the midst of World War I, this choral work stands as a testament to Rachmaninoff's genius, blending centuries-old Orthodox chants with his distinctive late-Romantic musical style. This album, released on December 4, 2005, under the Harmonia Mundi label, offers a transcendent experience that spans 53 minutes of pure, unadulterated classical beauty.
The All-Night Vigil, also known as Vespers, is a sacred choral work that captures the essence of Russian Orthodox liturgy. Each of the fifteen tracks, from the opening "Come, let us worship" to the closing "O queen victorious," is a testament to Rachmaninoff's ability to evoke deep spiritual and musical resonance. The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, under the direction of Paul Hillier, delivers a performance of unparalleled clarity and devotion, making this recording a standout in the choral repertoire.
Highlights include the tenor Karl Dent's monumental rendition of "Lord, now lettest Thou," a piece that showcases the choir's vocal prowess and the composer's intricate harmonies. The work's fusion of ancient liturgical forms with Rachmaninoff's rich, romantic orchestration creates a timeless and moving listening experience.
This album is a must-listen for fans of classical choral music and those seeking a deeper connection to the spiritual and cultural heritage of Russian Orthodox traditions. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Rachmaninoff's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this recording of the All-Night Vigil, Op. 37, promises an enriching and uplifting experience.
2005 harmonia mundi USA2005 harmonia mundi USA
Tracks
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: I. Come, let us worshipSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Vladimir Miller, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: II. Praise the Lord, O my soulSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: III. Blessed is the manSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: IV. O gentle lightSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Vladimir Miller, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: V. Lord, now lettest ThouSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: VI. Rejoice, O VirginSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: VII. The Six PsalmsSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: VIII. Praise the name of the LordSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: IX. Blessed art Thou, O LordSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: X. Having beheld the ResurrectionSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: XI. My soul magnifies the LordSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: XII. The Great DoxologySergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: XIII. Troparion: Today salvation is comeSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: XIV. Troparion: Thou didst rise from the tombSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
All-Night Vigil, Op.37: All-Night Vigil, Op.37: XV. O queen victoriousSergei Rachmaninoff, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
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