Zelenka: Invitatorium, 3 Lectiones, 9 Responsoria / Requiem for Elector Friedrich August I

Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Jan Dismas Zelenka with this captivating album, a masterful blend of sacred choral works that showcase the composer's unique voice and mastery of Baroque composition. This double album features two significant works: the "Invitatorium, 3 Lectiones, 9 Responsoria" and the "Requiem for Elector Friedrich August I," both composed for the Office of the Dead. The "Invitatorium" is a stunning example of Zelenka's ability to weave complex polyphony with deep spiritual reflection, while the "Requiem" is a powerful and somber piece, written in memory of Elector Friedrich August I, and showcases Zelenka's skill in crafting dramatic and expressive choral music.

Recorded by the esteemed Collegium 1704 under the direction of Václav Luks, this album benefits from their renowned expertise in Baroque performance practice, ensuring an authentic and vivid rendition of Zelenka's music. The album spans over an hour and forty minutes, providing a comprehensive exploration of Zelenka's choral writing and his distinctive approach to sacred music.

The album's forty-one tracks are meticulously performed, highlighting the intricate textures and harmonic richness of Zelenka's compositions. From the hauntingly beautiful "Invitatorium: Antiphona et Psalmus 'Regem cui omnia vivunt'" to the dramatic intensity of the "Requiem's" "Dies Irae," each piece offers a glimpse into Zelenka's genius and his enduring influence on Baroque music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, showcasing the timeless beauty and depth of Jan Dismas Zelenka's musical legacy.