Immerse yourself in the profound and moving world of Joonas Kokkonen's "Requiem," a masterful composition that pays tribute to the late Maija Kokkonen. This album, released on September 1, 2017, under the Toccata Classics label, offers a unique blend of choral and organ music that is both hauntingly beautiful and deeply resonant.
The album features the world premiere recording of Kokkonen's Requiem, meticulously arranged for two voices, choir, and organ by Juoko Linjama. The performance is brought to life by the talented Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, the Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, and Jan Lehtola, with Heikki Liimatta on the organ. Recorded in the acoustically rich Paavalinkirkko (St. Paul's Church) in Helsinki, Finland, the album captures the essence of Kokkonen's composition with stunning clarity and depth.
Spanning 55 minutes, the album includes a variety of tracks that range from solemn and reflective to uplifting and hopeful. Highlights include the haunting "Requiem: Tractus" and the serene "Requiem: In paradisum," both of which showcase the choir's ethereal harmonies and the organ's powerful resonance. The album also features two standalone pieces, "Hääsoitto" (Wedding Music) and "Surusoitto" (Funeral Music), which add a touch of cultural richness to the overall experience.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Joonas Kokkonen's "Requiem" is sure to leave a lasting impression. The album's intricate arrangements, powerful performances, and deeply moving compositions make it a standout addition to any music collection.
2017 Toccata Classics2017 Toccata Classics
Tracks
HääsoittoJoonas Kokkonen, Jan Lehtola
SurusoittoJoonas Kokkonen, Jan Lehtola
Requiem (Arr. J. Linjama for 2 Voices, Choir & Organ): Requiem aeternamJoonas Kokkonen, Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, The Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, Jan Lehtola, Heikki Liimola
Requiem (Arr. J. Linjama for 2 Voices, Choir & Organ): Kyrie eleisonJoonas Kokkonen, Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, The Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, Jan Lehtola, Heikki Liimola
Requiem (Arr. J. Linjama for 2 Voices, Choir & Organ): TractusJoonas Kokkonen, Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, The Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, Jan Lehtola, Heikki Liimola
Requiem (Arr. J. Linjama for 2 Voices, Choir & Organ): Domine Iesu ChristeJoonas Kokkonen, Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, The Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, Jan Lehtola, Heikki Liimola
Requiem (Arr. J. Linjama for 2 Voices, Choir & Organ): Hostias et precesJoonas Kokkonen, Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, The Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, Jan Lehtola, Heikki Liimola
Requiem (Arr. J. Linjama for 2 Voices, Choir & Organ): Sanctus et BenedictusJoonas Kokkonen, Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, The Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, Jan Lehtola, Heikki Liimola
Requiem (Arr. J. Linjama for 2 Voices, Choir & Organ): Agnus DeiJoonas Kokkonen, Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, The Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, Jan Lehtola, Heikki Liimola
Requiem (Arr. J. Linjama for 2 Voices, Choir & Organ): In paradisumJoonas Kokkonen, Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, The Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, Jan Lehtola, Heikki Liimola
Requiem (Arr. J. Linjama for 2 Voices, Choir & Organ): Lux aeternaJoonas Kokkonen, Suvi Väyrynen, Joose Vähäsöyrinki, The Klemetti Institute Chamber Choir, Jan Lehtola, Heikki Liimola