Vasks: Laudate Dominum

Immerse yourself in the serene and contemplative world of Pēteris Vasks with his 2017 album "Vasks: Laudate Dominum." This captivating collection, released under the Ondine label, is a testament to Vasks' mastery of minimalism and opera, offering a profound and spiritually uplifting experience.

The album features the Latvian Radio Choir and Sinfonietta Rīga, conducted by Sigvards Kļava, delivering a mesmerizing performance that spans a total of 66 minutes. The five tracks, including the title track "Laudate Dominum" and "Da pacem, Domine," showcase Vasks' unique ability to weave long, intricate lines into large, sweeping structures, creating a sense of tranquility and introspection.

Born in Aizpute, Latvia, Pēteris Vasks is renowned for his contributions to contemporary classical music, and this album is no exception. The choral and orchestral arrangements are exquisite, with each piece building upon the last to create a cohesive and deeply moving journey. The Latin texts, combined with Vasks' minimalist style, evoke a sense of timelessness and universality, making this album a true gem for lovers of classical and choral music.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Pēteris Vasks or new to his work, "Vasks: Laudate Dominum" is an album that will leave a lasting impression. The blend of minimalism and opera, coupled with the stunning performances by the Latvian Radio Choir and Sinfonietta Rīga, makes this a must-listen for anyone seeking a moment of peace and reflection.

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?"