Immerse yourself in the dramatic and evocative world of Niels Wilhelm Gade's "Korsfarerne" (The Crusaders), Op. 50, a captivating orchestral and choral work that brings to life the tales of medieval crusaders. This 1990 release, masterfully recorded by the BIS label, offers a rich and immersive experience that spans nearly an hour of enthralling music.
Composed by the renowned Danish musician Niels Wilhelm Gade, "Korsfarerne" is a grand oratorio that weaves together powerful choruses, stirring arias, and dramatic scenes. The album is divided into three parts: "I Orkene" (In the Desert), "Armida," and "Mod Jerusalem" (Towards Jerusalem), each section brimming with vivid imagery and profound storytelling.
The performance features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, and Ulrik Cold, alongside the esteemed Aarhus Symphony Orchestra and various choirs, all conducted with precision and passion by Frans Rasmussen. The ensemble's collective talent breathes life into Gade's score, making each note resonate with historical depth and musical brilliance.
From the haunting choruses of pilgrims and women in the desert to the enchanting arias of Armida and the triumphant march towards Jerusalem, "Korsfarerne" is a testament to Gade's compositional genius. The album's 12 tracks, totaling 59 minutes, are a journey through the highs and lows of the crusaders' quest, capturing the spirit of adventure, faith, and conflict.
Whether you're a fan of classical music, historical epics, or simply appreciate a well-crafted musical narrative, "Korsfarerne" is a standout addition to any collection. This album is a celebration of Gade's legacy and a testament to the enduring power of music to transport and inspire.
1990 BIS1990 BIS
Tracks
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: I. I Orkene [In the Desert]: Chorus of Pilgrims and WomenNiels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50, I. I Orkene [In the Desert]: Scene [Bass, Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: I. I Orkene [In the Desert]: Crusaders' Song [Tenor, Bass, Chorus]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: I. I Orkene [In the Desert]: Prayer [Bass, Chorus]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: II. Armida: Chorus of the Spirits of DarknessNiels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: II. Armida: Recitative and Aria [Mezzo-soprano]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: II. Armida: Sirens' Chorus [Chorus, Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50, II. Armida: Scene [Mezzo-soprano, Tenor, Chorus]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: III. Mod Jerusalem [Towards Jerusalem]: Crusaders' Chorus. Morning SongNiels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: III. Mod Jerusalem [Towards Jerusalem]: Aria [Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50: III. Mod Jerusalem [Towards Jerusalem]: Pilgrims' March [Chorus, Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen
Korsfarerne (the Crusaders), Op. 50, III. Mod Jerusalem [Towards Jerusalem]: Final Scene [Bass, Chorus, Tenor]Niels Wilhelm Gade, Marianne Rorholm, Kurt Westi, Ulrik Cold, Canzone Choir, Camera Choir, The, Choir 72, Aarhus Music Students Chamber Choir, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, Frans Rasmussen