Komitas: Divine Liturgy

Album Description

Experience the profound and sacred sounds of Komitas' "Divine Liturgy," a masterful arrangement by Vache Sharafyan for mixed choir, released on July 10, 2020, by Delos. This album is a groundbreaking recording, marking the first-ever mixed-choir version of Komitas' revered work, transformed into a captivating "concert mass."

The Latvian Radio Choir, under the direction of their artistic director Sigvards Klava, delivers a stunning performance that showcases the depth and richness of Komitas' composition. With guest soloists adding their voices to the ensemble, this recording is a testament to the choir's exceptional skill and the conductor's meticulous direction.

Spanning 31 tracks and just under 79 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of the Divine Liturgy, featuring arrangements of traditional hymns and prayers. Each piece is beautifully rendered, highlighting the intricate harmonies and the spiritual essence of the liturgy. From the solemn "Hymn of Vesting" to the triumphant "Amen, Holy Is the Father," every track is a testament to Komitas' genius and Sharafyan's masterful arrangement.

The album is a must-listen for fans of choral music, sacred compositions, and those seeking a deeper connection to the spiritual traditions of the Armenian Church. The blend of traditional hymns and contemporary choral arrangements creates a unique and powerful listening experience. Whether you are familiar with Komitas' work or discovering it for the first time, this album offers a profound and enriching journey into the world of sacred choral music.

July 10, 2020

2020 Delos

About Komitas

Komitas, born Soghomon Soghomonian, was a multifaceted figure in Armenian music and culture, renowned as a composer, musicologist, and choirmaster. Ordained as a priest in 1894, he adopted the name Komitas and dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Armenian musical heritage. Komitas is celebrated as the founder of the Armenian national school of music and a pioneer in the field of ethnomusicology. His work spans compositions, arrangements, and scholarly treatises, all of which reflect his deep commitment to Armenian folk music and his innovative approach to ethnomusicology. Despite the tragedies he endured, including his arrest during the Armenian Genocide, Komitas' legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire and educate. His contributions to Armenian music are vast, encompassing solo piano pieces, choral works, and ethnomusicological studies that have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.