Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Danish composer Niels Gade's "Comala," a captivating choral and orchestral work that showcases his mastery of Romantic-era composition. Released on February 16, 2018, via the esteemed Dacapo label, this album presents Gade's Op. 12 in its entirety, a dramatic cantata that weaves together soloists, choir, and orchestra to create a powerful and evocative musical narrative.
"Comala" is a testament to Gade's early career as a violinist in the Danish Royal Orchestra, reflecting his deep understanding of both instrumental and vocal textures. The work is divided into 12 distinct movements, each telling a part of the story with vivid musical imagery. From the stirring calls to battle in "Auf, auf, auf, laut schallt das Horn" to the haunting stillness of "O grauenvolle Stille! Dahin, dahin sind die lieblichen Träume," Gade's compositional prowess shines through in every note.
The album features the Danish National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the renowned Laurence Equilbey, alongside a stellar cast of soloists including Elenor Wiman, Marie-Adeline Henry, Markus Eiche, and Rachel Kelly. Their performances bring depth and nuance to Gade's score, making this recording a standout in the classical vocal and choral genre.
With a total duration of 49 minutes, "Comala" is a compelling journey through the dramatic and lyrical landscapes of Gade's musical imagination. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or new to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the enduring appeal of Gade's compositions.
Comala, Op. 12: No. 1, Auf, auf, auf, laut schallt das HornNiels Gade, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 2, Heute noch brech' ich des stolzen Königs MachtNiels Gade, Marie-Adeline Henry, Markus Eiche, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 3, Auf, auf in die Schlacht, Fingal führt uns zum Sieg!Niels Gade, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 4, O grauenvolle Stille! Dahin, dahin sind die lieblichen TräumeNiels Gade, Marie-Adeline Henry, Rachel Kelly, Elenor Wiman, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 5, Vom Lochlin kam gezogen Suaran, der stolze HeldNiels Gade, Rachel Kelly, Elenor Wiman, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 6, Still, still ist die Jagd, kein Laut ertönt, als das Brausen des StromsNiels Gade, Marie-Adeline Henry, Rachel Kelly, Elenor Wiman, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 7, Wir wandeln auf dem SturmNiels Gade, Marie-Adeline Henry, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 8, O, o, dass ich nicht sitze an Caruns WellenNiels Gade, Marie-Adeline Henry, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 9, Entfloh'n ist der Feind' Getöse, nicht sieht man sein Ross auf den HöhenNiels Gade, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 10, Lasst ab vom lauten Siegsgesang, ihr Krieger Fingals, schweigt, o schweigt!Niels Gade, Markus Eiche, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 11, Lasst mich schauen die Geliebte, zeiget, wo die Holde schläftNiels Gade, Markus Eiche, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey
Comala, Op. 12: No. 12, Aus den Wolken herab schauen die Geister der AhnenNiels Gade, The Danish National Concert Choir, Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Laurence Equilbey