"Scattered Rhymes" is a captivating exploration of the intersection between medieval and contemporary musical sensibilities, brought to life by the esteemed Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir and the Orlando Consort. Conducted by the renowned early music specialist Paul Hillier, this album presents a unique blend of ancient and modern, featuring the world premiere recording of Tarik O'Regan's vibrant and powerful composition.
The title piece, "Scattered Rhymes," is a three-movement work that weaves together the voices of the Orlando Consort and the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir. O'Regan's composition takes thematic fragments from Guillaume de Machaut's famous "Messe de Nostre Dame" and uses them as the foundation for an intricate setting of Petrarch sonnets and an anonymous 14th-century love poem. This innovative approach creates a kaleidoscope of sounds that blurs the lines between the old and the new, making it difficult to discern which is which.
In addition to O'Regan's modern composition, the album also includes a performance of Machaut's "Messe de Nostre Dame" in its entirety, showcasing the choir's versatility and mastery of medieval music. The album also features works by Gavin Bryars, further enriching the diverse musical landscape presented.
With a duration of just over an hour, "Scattered Rhymes" offers a rich and engaging listening experience that highlights the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir's impressive range, from Gregorian chant to 20th-century music, with a particular emphasis on Estonian composers like Arvo Pärt and Veljo Tormis. This album is a testament to the choir's exceptional skill and the innovative spirit of Tarik O'Regan's composition.
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