Vasks: Plainscapes

Description

Product Description This CD presents a cross section of a cappella choral works by Cannes Classical-awarded composer Peteris Vasks (b. 1946), performed by the acclaimed Latvian Radio Choir under the direction of Sigvards Klava. Following on from their successful recording of liturgical Vasks compositions (Beautifully performed, a rare outing for Vask's choral music" - Gramophone 'recommends'), the Latvian Radio Choir once again draws on the Baltic countries' extraordinary choir music tradition, focusing here on secular repertoire. The title piece on this disc is Plainscapes, written in 2002 for mixed choir, violin and cello on commission from Gidon Kremer. Meditating on the inspiring beauty of the Latvian lowlands, it uses vocalises to celebrate nature's cyclic miracles. Birth (2008) for choir and percussion pays tribute to the sun as a symbol for life." Review 'The performances are spotless: there doesn't seem to be a tone which isn't bang in tune, and the recording, made in St John's Church in Riga, captures the sense of the music hanging in the space where it is sung.' --International Record Review'This [CD] focuses on superb performances by the Latvian Radio Choir of the secular side of his trance-inducing, largely homophonic four-part compositions... The newest work here, "Birth" (2008), for mixed choir and percussion, is likely to send Vasks fans into ecstasies of delight in the pseudo-Shamanic voice-effects of its celebration of the Sun.' Performance ****/Recording **** --Hilary Finch, BBC Music Magazine - Dec.'12