Taneyev: Works for A Cappella Choir

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of Sergei Taneyev's choral masterpieces with this captivating collection of a cappella works. This album, released on April 1, 2022, by Northern Flowers, showcases the profound and evocative compositions of Taneyev, a prominent figure in Russian classical music and a student of the legendary Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The Leningrad Radio and Television Choir, under the skilled direction of Grigori Sandler, brings these rare and exquisite pieces to life with stunning precision and artistry.

Spanning a duration of approximately 70 minutes, the album features a diverse array of choruses, including selections from Taneyev's renowned "12 Choruses a cappella, Op. 27" and "17 Choruses (Excerpts)." Each piece is a testament to Taneyev's mastery of vocal composition, showcasing his unique ability to blend lyrical beauty with harmonic complexity. The live performances capture the raw power and nuance of the choir, offering an authentic and immersive listening experience.

From the hauntingly beautiful "At the Grave" to the ethereal "Venice at Night," this album is a journey through the depths of human experience, as conveyed through the timeless words of poets like Yakov Polonsky. The choir's impeccable technique and expressive delivery bring these texts to life, creating a profound connection between the listener and the music.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the works of Sergei Taneyev. The meticulous attention to detail in both the performances and the production ensures that every nuance of Taneyev's compositions is brought to the forefront, providing a truly enriching listening experience.

Sergei Taneyev, born into Russian nobility in 1856, was a multifaceted musical genius whose influence resonates through the annals of classical music. A child prodigy, Taneyev entered the Moscow Conservatory at the tender age of nine, where he studied piano with Nikolay Rubinstein and composition with the legendary Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Taneyev's musical journey was marked by his meticulous approach to composition, his elegant command of technique, and his cosmopolitan outlook, which set him apart from his contemporaries. His works, known for their finely wrought contrapuntal textures combined with romantic harmony, have earned him the moniker "the Russian Bach" from Tchaikovsky himself. Beyond his compositional prowess, Taneyev was a brilliant pianist, a distinguished teacher, and a pioneering music theorist, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of his time. His legacy continues to inspire contemporary musicians, redefining our understanding of classical music.