Vasks: Prayer

Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative compositions of Pēteris Vasks with his compelling album, "Prayer," released in 2019. This collection of choral works, accompanied by orchestral arrangements, showcases the depth and richness of Vasks' musical genius. Recorded at the Great Guild Concert Hall in Riga, Latvia, the album features the State Choir "Latvija" and the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra, bringing Vasks' vision to life with unparalleled precision and passion.

"Prayer" spans a duration of 57 minutes, encompassing eight tracks that blend minimalism and opera to create a unique and captivating listening experience. The album includes powerful pieces such as "Prayer for a Mother" for soprano, choir, and orchestra, and "Missa" for mixed choir and string orchestra, each piece a testament to Vasks' ability to evoke deep, resonant emotions through his music.

Born in 1946, Pēteris Vasks is one of Latvia's most celebrated composers, known for his ability to craft musical landscapes that resonate with listeners on a profound level. His compositions often reflect his deep connection to his homeland and his commitment to exploring the human condition through music.

This album is a testament to Vasks' enduring legacy and his contributions to contemporary classical music. Whether you are a longtime fan of Vasks' work or a newcomer to his compositions, "Prayer" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty and complexity of his musical vision.

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?"