Rachmaninov: All-Night Vigil Op. 37

Klava, Sigvards, Latvian Radio Choir

ODE 1206-5

This new release of Rachmaninov's All-Night Vigil follows several earlier releases featuring the acclaimed Latvian Radio Choir under its Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Sigvards Kļava. Inspired by the words, music and atmosphere of Russian Orthodox worship, Rachmaninov created with his Liturgy of St John Chrysostom (ODE 1151-5) and his All-Night Vigil two supreme examples of choral writing but also music of uplifting spiritual strength. As instruments are being proscribed by Church law, the All-Night Vigil is composed for unaccompanied voices but Rachmaninov created a work of such richness that could be described as "choral orchestration". Dividing the chorus often up into eight parts and requiring a wide vocal range of the singers, Rachmaninov was asked: "Where on earth are we going to find such basses? They are as rare as asparagus at Christmas." But Rachmaninov knew well that, in Russian choirs, asparagus is available all year round. The Latvian Radio Choir is regarded as one of the top professional chamber choirs in Europe. The repertoire extends from the Renaissance to the present day, and its main focus is on exploring the capabilities of the human voice and seeking to push its limits. Sigvards Kļava, Chief Conductor and Artistic Director of the Latvian Radio Choir since 1992, is one of Latvia's most prolific choral conductors. Apart of the standard repertoire he has conducted most premières of new choral works by Latvian composers.

SACD x 1

Ondine

27/10/2012

761195120651

Audiophile Audition: 'Best of the Year Disc' (2014)
Gramophone 'Recording of the Month' (August 2013)
Gramophone Award: 'Nomination' (2013)