Rózsa: Three Choral Suites

Album Description

Experience the epic grandeur of Miklós Rózsa's cinematic masterpieces with "Three Choral Suites," a stunning compilation of suites from his iconic film scores. Released on April 26, 2005, this album showcases the brilliance of Rózsa's compositions, brought to life by the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, under the baton of Erich Kunzel.

Spanning a total of 21 tracks, this album features suites from three of Rózsa's most celebrated films: "Ben-Hur," "Quo Vadis," and "King of Kings." Each suite is a testament to Rózsa's ability to create powerful, evocative music that enhances the narrative of the films. From the thrilling "Rowing of the Galley Slaves" to the majestic "Miracle and Finale" in the "Ben-Hur" suite, every track is a journey through the rich tapestry of Rózsa's musical genius.

The "Quo Vadis" suite offers a blend of dramatic intensity and lyrical beauty, with highlights such as the "Ave Caesar March" and the "Assyrian Dance." The "King of Kings" suite, on the other hand, is a profound exploration of spiritual themes, featuring the moving "The Lord's Prayer" and the triumphant "Resurrection and Finale."

Recorded by Telarc, this album benefits from exceptional production quality, ensuring that every nuance of Rózsa's compositions is captured with clarity and depth. Whether you are a fan of classical music, film scores, or simply appreciate beautifully crafted music, "Three Choral Suites" is a treasure trove of auditory delights. With a duration of 1 hour and 1 minute, this album is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Miklós Rózsa's music.

April 26, 2005

℗ 2005 Telarc International Corp., Distributed by Concord.

About Miklós Rózsa

Miklós Rózsa, born in Budapest in 1907, was a prolific Hungarian-American composer whose musical journey took him across Europe and to Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark on both the concert hall and the silver screen. A child prodigy, Rózsa began his musical education at the age of five, studying the violin and later the viola and piano. His early influences included the rich tapestry of Hungarian folk music and the classical traditions of Bartók and Liszt.

Rózsa's formal training began at the Leipzig Conservatory, where he earned his doctorate in music by the age of 23. His career spanned multiple countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with frequent visits to Italy. Throughout his life, Rózsa maintained a dual commitment to both absolute concert music and film scoring, creating nearly one hundred film scores that are as iconic as they are diverse.

Among his most celebrated works are the scores for epic films like "Ben-Hur," "Spellbound," and "El Cid," each showcasing his distinctive use of orchestration and his ability to evoke powerful emotions. Beyond his film work, Rózsa's concert compositions, such as his Viola Concerto, are considered masterpieces and stand as testament to his deep musicality and innovation.

Rózsa's legacy endures not just in his compositions but also in his influence on the art of film music, making him one of the most respected and versatile composers of his time. His music continues to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a rich and immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of time and genre.