Taneyev: At the Reading of A Psalm, Op. 36, "Cantata No. 2"

Immerse yourself in the profound and powerful world of Sergei Taneyev's final masterpiece with "At the Reading of a Psalm, Op. 36, 'Cantata No. 2'." This monumental work, composed in the midst of World War I, stands as a testament to Taneyev's contrapuntal genius and his deep-rooted Russian Orthodox faith. Released in 2004 by PentaTone, this album captures the grandeur and spiritual depth of Taneyev's cantata, which features a full orchestra, double chorus, and vocal soloists.

Spanning nine tracks, the cantata explores themes of devotion, humility, and the true essence of worship. From the dramatic opening chorus, "…Zemlya trepeshchet (…The earth is trembling)," to the soaring alto aria, "…Yest' dar bestsenniy (…But there is a priceless gift)," each movement is a testament to Taneyev's mastery of composition. The double chorus pieces, such as "Izrail'! Ti mne stroish' khramy (Israel! You build temples for me)" and "Mne nuzhno serdtse chishche zlata (I need your heart to be purer than gold)," showcase the dramatic and expressive power of Taneyev's writing.

The album, clocking in at just over an hour, is a journey through Taneyev's unique musical language, which blends the influence of Russian folk music with the complexity of Western classical traditions. The interplay between the orchestra, chorus, and soloists creates a rich tapestry of sound that is both intellectually stimulating and spiritually uplifting. Taneyev's inventive use of brass and strings, reminiscent of Bruckner and Rimsky-Korsakov, adds depth and color to the cantata, making it a standout work in the choral repertoire.

This recording, featuring the Russian National Orchestra and conducted by Mikhail Pletnev, brings Taneyev's vision to life with stunning clarity and precision. Pletnev's insightful interpretation highlights the cantata's thematic richness and structural brilliance, making this album an essential addition to any classical music collection. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Taneyev's work or a newcomer to his music, "At the Reading of a Psalm, Op. 36, 'Cantata No. 2'" offers a profound and enriching listening experience.