Transcriptions

Accentus, the renowned French choir, presents "Transcriptions," a captivating exploration of choral arrangements of classical masterpieces. Released on Naïve in 2008, this album offers a unique perspective on familiar works, reimagined for choir. Spanning a diverse range of composers and styles, from Gustav Mahler to Gabriel Fauré, the program showcases the versatility and virtuosity of Accentus under the direction of Laurence Equilbey.

The album opens with a poignant arrangement of Mahler's "Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen" from his Rückert Lieder, followed by a haunting rendition of Fauré's "Les angélus." The choir's delicate phrasing and nuanced dynamics bring a sense of intimacy to these well-known pieces. Accentus also tackles larger-scale works, such as Prokofiev's "Alexander Nevsky" and Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons," demonstrating their ability to convey the grandeur and drama of these compositions.

One of the standout tracks is the arrangement of Ravel's "Shéhérazade," where Accentus captures the exotic allure and narrative power of the original song cycle. The choir's precise articulation and expressive singing bring these stories to life, making it a highlight of the album.

"Transcriptions" is not just a collection of arrangements; it's a testament to the power of choral music to reinterpret and breathe new life into familiar works. Accentus's impeccable musicianship and Equilbey's insightful direction make this album a compelling listen for fans of classical and choral music alike. With a duration of 1 hour and 54 minutes, it offers a rich and varied journey through some of the most beloved pieces in the classical repertoire.