Immerse yourself in the profound and contemplative world of sacred choral music with "Alfred Schnittke & Arvo Pärt: Choral Works." This captivating album, released on January 5, 2018, under the BIS label, showcases the minimalist genius of two esteemed composers, Alfred Schnittke and Arvo Pärt. The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conducted by Kaspars Putniņš, delivers a mesmerizing performance that spans 59 minutes of ethereal and introspective compositions.
The album features a collection of 15 tracks, including Schnittke's powerful "Psalms of Repentance" series and the serene "Magnificat" and "Nunc Dimittis" by Pärt. Each piece is a testament to the composers' deep spiritual insights and their ability to evoke a sense of tranquility and reflection. Schnittke's works, less known but equally compelling, complement Pärt's renowned compositions, creating a harmonious blend of sacred music that resonates with both the heart and the soul.
This album is a must-listen for enthusiasts of classical and minimalist music, offering a unique opportunity to explore the resurgence of Christianity through the lens of these two influential composers. The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir's pristine vocals and Putniņš' masterful direction bring these sacred texts to life, making this album a true gem in the world of contemporary choral music.
2018 BIS2018 BIS
Tracks
Psalms of Repentance: No. 1, Adam Sat Weeping at the Gates of ParadiseAlfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 2, O Wilderness, Gather Me to Your Silent and Gentle LapAlfred Schnittke, Raul Mikson, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 3, That Is Why I Live in PovertyAlfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 4, My Soul, Why Are You in a State of Sin?Alfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 5, O Man, Doomed and WretchedAlfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 6, When They Beheld the Ship That Suddenly CameAlfred Schnittke, Maria Melaha, Karolina Kriis, Marianne Pärna, Ave Hännikäinen, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 7, Oh My Soul, Why Are You Not Afraid?Alfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 8, If You Wish to Overcome Unending SorrowAlfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 9, I Have Reflected on My Life as a MonkAlfred Schnittke, Raul Mikson, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 10, Christian People, Gather Together!Alfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 11, I Entered This Life of Tears a Naked InfantAlfred Schnittke, Raul Mikson, Toomas Tohert, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Psalms of Repentance: No. 12, (Wordless Humming)Alfred Schnittke, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
MagnificatArvo Pärt, Kaia Urb, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš
Nunc DimittisArvo Pärt, Kaia Urb, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Kaspars Putniņš