Trésors du Paradis

Immerse yourself in the ethereal and transcendent world of Maurice Duruflé's choral masterpieces with "Trésors du Paradis." This exquisite album, released on ASC Records, showcases the profound beauty and spiritual depth of Duruflé's compositions, alongside works by Jonathan Dove and Yves Castagnet. The centerpiece of the album is Duruflé's renowned Requiem, a piece celebrated for its haunting melodies and rich harmonies, performed here with exquisite sensitivity by the Choir of Lincoln College, Oxford, under the direction of Matthew Foster.

The album opens with Duruflé's Requiem, a work that has become a staple in the choral repertoire, known for its blend of Gregorian chant and modern harmonies. Each movement, from the solemn "Introit" to the serene "In Paradisum," is rendered with a warm, blended sound and long, legato lines that create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The choir's ethereal effect is particularly striking in moments such as the "Benedictus" of the Castagnet Mass, where the voices seem to float effortlessly.

In addition to the Requiem, the album features a selection of other sacred works, including the "Gloria" from Duruflé's Missa Brevis, Dove's "Treasures in Heaven," and Castagnet's "Messe Salve Regina." These pieces, performed with the same level of artistry and attention to detail, offer a comprehensive overview of Duruflé's choral output and his enduring influence on sacred music.

"Trésors du Paradis" is a testament to the dedication and skill of the Choir of Lincoln College, who, despite rehearsing only during university sessions, have achieved a level of musical excellence that is truly inspiring. The album's 16 tracks, spanning over an hour and thirty-eight minutes, provide a rich and rewarding listening experience for fans of choral music and those seeking a deeper connection with the sacred.

Whether you are a seasoned fan of Maurice Duruflé's music or a newcomer to the world of choral sacred music, "Trésors du Paradis" is an album that will captivate and inspire. The combination of Duruflé's timeless compositions, the choir's exceptional performances, and the thoughtful curation of the album's tracklist make it a standout release in the genre.

Maurice Duruflé, born in 1902 in Louviers, France, was a multifaceted musical genius known for his compositions, organ playing, and teaching. His works, though few in number, are deeply revered for their unique blend of Gregorian chant and modern harmonies. Duruflé's most celebrated piece, the Requiem, is a masterful fusion of ancient liturgical music and 20th-century compositional techniques. His musical journey began under the guidance of his father, a professional harpist, and continued at the prestigious Paris Conservatory, where he studied with notable figures like Paul Dukas and Charles Tournemire. Duruflé's influence extends beyond his compositions; he was also a respected professor at the Conservatoire de Paris, shaping the next generation of musicians. His legacy endures through his evocative choral works and organ pieces, which continue to captivate audiences with their profound emotional depth and technical brilliance.