Duruflé: Requiem, Messe cum jubilo & Motets

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and serene world of Maurice Duruflé's choral masterpieces with this comprehensive collection, released in 1999. This album presents a profound exploration of Duruflé's religious compositions, featuring his renowned Requiem, Op. 9, a work that masterfully blends Gregorian chant with lush harmonies. The Requiem, composed in 1947, is a poignant and introspective piece that has become a staple in the choral repertoire, showcasing Duruflé's unique ability to evoke a sense of tranquility and reverence.

Complementing the Requiem is the Messe cum jubilo, Op. 11, a joyful and celebratory mass setting that Duruflé dedicated to his wife in honor of the Virgin Mary. Composed in 1966, this work is a testament to Duruflé's later style, characterized by its vibrant orchestration and exuberant choral writing. The album also includes the Quatre motets sur des thèmes grégoriens, Op. 10, a set of four motets based on Gregorian themes, and the Notre Père, Op. 14, a setting of the Lord's Prayer.

Recorded with meticulous attention to detail, this album captures the essence of Duruflé's sacred music, offering a rich and immersive listening experience. The performances are conducted with precision and sensitivity, bringing out the subtle nuances and depths of Duruflé's compositions. Whether you are a seasoned fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this collection is an essential addition to your library, providing a comprehensive overview of one of the 20th century's most significant composers of sacred music.

December 31, 1999

About Maurice Duruflé

Maurice Duruflé, born in 1902 in Louviers, France, was a multifaceted musical genius known for his compositions, organ playing, and teaching. His works, though few in number, are deeply revered for their unique blend of Gregorian chant and modern harmonies. Duruflé's most celebrated piece, the Requiem, is a masterful fusion of ancient liturgical music and 20th-century compositional techniques. His musical journey began under the guidance of his father, a professional harpist, and continued at the prestigious Paris Conservatory, where he studied with notable figures like Paul Dukas and Charles Tournemire. Duruflé's influence extends beyond his compositions; he was also a respected professor at the Conservatoire de Paris, shaping the next generation of musicians. His legacy endures through his evocative choral works and organ pieces, which continue to captivate audiences with their profound emotional depth and technical brilliance.