Arnold Rosner's "Requiem, Op. 59" is a profound and captivating musical journey released on September 4, 2020, under the Toccata Classics label. This masterful composition spans a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, divided into ten intricate movements, each offering a unique exploration of the requiem genre. Rosner, known for his distinctive voice in contemporary classical music, delivers a work that has been hailed as an "unknown masterpiece."
The album features the London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Nick Palmer, with a stellar cast of vocalists including Kelley Hollis (soprano), Thomas Elwin (tenor), Feargal Mostyn-Williams (countertenor), and Gareth Brynmor John (baritone). Their performances bring depth and nuance to Rosner's intricate score, making this requiem a standout piece in the choral and orchestral repertoire.
From the haunting "Overture (The Seventh Seal)" to the solemn "Prayer (Kaddish)" and the powerful "Passacaglia (Libera me)," each movement of "Requiem, Op. 59" showcases Rosner's mastery of composition and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. The album is a testament to Rosner's innovative approach to traditional forms, blending contemporary techniques with timeless themes of life, death, and redemption.
For those seeking a deeply moving and artistically rich listening experience, Arnold Rosner's "Requiem, Op. 59" is an essential addition to any classical music collection.