Pēteris Vasks: Oboe Concerto, Vēstījums & Lauda

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Pēteris Vasks with his captivating album "Pēteris Vasks: Oboe Concerto, Vēstījums & Lauda." Released on September 3, 2021, under the Ondine label, this album is a masterful blend of minimalism and opera, showcasing Vasks' unique compositional style. The album features the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Andris Poga, with Albrecht Mayer on oboe, delivering a performance that is both technically brilliant and deeply expressive.

The album opens with the Oboe Concerto, a three-movement work that takes you on a journey from the serene "Morning Pastorale" to the playful "Scherzando," and finally to the reflective "Evening Pastorale." Each movement is a testament to Vasks' ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music. Following the concerto, the album continues with "Vēstījums" and "Lauda," two pieces that further highlight Vasks' minimalist approach and his talent for creating deeply moving musical experiences.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 8 minutes, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Pēteris Vasks or a newcomer to his work, "Pēteris Vasks: Oboe Concerto, Vēstījums & Lauda" is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the beauty and depth of Vasks' music.

Pēteris Vasks, born in 1946, is one of Latvia's most renowned and internationally acclaimed composers, celebrated for his significant contributions to academic music in the late 20th and 21st centuries. His works, which span genres such as minimalism and opera, have earned him multiple Great Music Awards and a place among the most respected composers in Europe. Vasks' music is deeply philosophical, often exploring the spiritual and existential dimensions of sound. He views music as the most divine of arts, believing that it can effortlessly connect to the divine and express the spirit. His compositions, including the renowned 1st Symphony "Voices," have garnered international recognition since the early 1990s. Vasks' personal life is as rich as his musical legacy, sharing his home with his wife, director Dzintra Geka, in a house inherited from his great-aunt. His deep connection to music is evident in his words, "I could say that I am a happy person. Because the foundation of my life is music. I live in music, and what could be more beautiful than that?"