Jan Dismas Zelenka's "The Lamentations of Jeremiah the Prophet" is a profound and deeply moving collection of sacred music, originally composed for liturgical use in the electoral chapel. This album, released on September 19, 2014, under the Supraphon label, features six of Zelenka's nine Lamentations, each a poignant reflection on the Old Testament Book of Lamentations attributed to the Prophet Jeremiah. The compositions, penned by Zelenka between 1722 and 1745, are performed by the esteemed Collegium Marianum, under the artistic direction of Jana Semerádová, with soloists Damien Guillon, Daniel Johannsen, and Tomáš Král delivering powerful vocal performances.
The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, encompassing Lamentations for Holy Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday. Each section is meticulously crafted, blending Gregorian chants with Zelenka's distinctive Baroque style, creating a rich tapestry of sound that resonates with historical depth and spiritual intensity. The performances are anchored in authenticity, recorded in the Church of Virgin Mary under the Chain in Prague, adding a layer of reverence and historical context to the music.
Zelenka, a Czech composer who studied in Vienna and Venice but spent much of his career in Dresden, brings his unique perspective and mastery of Baroque composition to these works. His Lamentations are not just musical pieces but profound expressions of faith and human suffering, making this album a significant contribution to the repertoire of sacred music. Whether you are a devotee of Baroque music or a seeker of spiritual solace through art, this album offers a deeply enriching experience.
Vinylscout