Zelenka Psalmi Varii

Immerse yourself in the sacred and sublime with Jan Dismas Zelenka's "Psalmi Varii," a collection of psalm settings that represent the pinnacle of Baroque choral music. Released on December 24, 2018, this album features the Ensemble Inégal and Prague Baroque Soloists, conducted by Adam Viktora, delivering a world premiere recording of Zelenka's complete "Psalmi Varii Separatim Scripti." This cycle, composed during Zelenka's tenure in Dresden, includes some of his most brilliant and intricate psalm compositions, interspersed with works of striking simplicity.

The album spans 57 minutes and includes 16 tracks, each a testament to Zelenka's innovative compositional style. Notable works include "Lauda Jerusalem," "De profundis," "Dixit Dominus," and "Ecce nunc benedicite," all of which are presented here for the first time in recorded history. The performances are marked by their clarity and precision, showcasing the ensemble's deep understanding of Baroque performance practices.

"Psalmi Varii" is a journey through the sacred texts of the Psalms, set to music that is both technically demanding and spiritually uplifting. Zelenka's mastery of counterpoint and harmony is evident throughout, making this album a essential addition to any classical music collection. The detailed liner notes provide valuable context and insights into the compositions and their texts, enhancing the listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned Baroque enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding exploration of Zelenka's musical genius.

Jan Dismas Zelenka, born in the small Bohemian town of Louňovice pod Blaníkem in 1679, is a Baroque composer whose music has only recently begun to receive the widespread acclaim it deserves. Often hailed as the "Czech Bach," Zelenka's compositions are celebrated for their harmonic inventiveness and masterful counterpoint. Raised by an organist father, Zelenka's musical education began at the Prague Jesuit College and continued in Vienna. His professional life was spent in Dresden, where he served as a principal double-bass player and composer for the Saxon court. Zelenka's output is predominantly sacred, reflecting his deep religious fervor, and includes masses, requiems, oratorios, and various liturgical works. His music, characterized by its adventurous harmonies and intricate polyphony, has seen a remarkable resurgence in the last few decades, captivating audiences and musicians alike. Today, festivals dedicated to his work, such as the Podblanický hudební podzim and the international Zelenka Festival Prague, celebrate his enduring legacy.