Dive into the profound and captivating world of "Zealot Canticles," a concert-length choral oratorio by Lansing McLoskey, released on September 28, 2018, under the Innova label. This ambitious work is a musical exploration of Wole Soyinka's "Twelve Canticles for the Zealot," offering a hauntingly beautiful and unsettling glimpse into the minds of fanatics. McCloskey's composition, performed by the acclaimed chamber choir The Crossing under the direction of Donald Nally, weaves together clarinet, string quartet, and choir to create a rich tapestry of sound that resonates with universal pleas for peace and tolerance.
"Zealot Canticles" spans 20 tracks, each delving into the complexities of fanaticism and the human condition. The album's duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes allows for a deep immersion into McCloskey's intricate musical narrative. The performances by soloists Rebecca Siler, Elijah Blaisdell, and Maren Montalbano-Brehm, along with the instrumental quintet, add layers of depth and contrast, making this a standout piece in contemporary choral music.
The album's strength lies in its ability to confront the darker aspects of human nature while advocating for understanding and harmony. McCloskey's compositional prowess is evident in the way he blends diverse musical elements to create a cohesive and impactful listening experience. Whether you're a fan of choral music, contemporary classical, or simply appreciate thought-provoking art, "Zealot Canticles" is a compelling addition to your collection.
2018 Innova2018 Innova
Tracks
Zealot Canticles: No. 1, Renunciation. PreludiumLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 3, Perched on Church SteepleLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 4, I Intend to Be BluntLansing Mcloskey, Elijah Blaisdell, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 5, I Shall Ram Pebbles in My MouthLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 6, Armed with Book and BeardLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 7, The Writing on the WallLansing Mcloskey, Rebecca Siler, Maren Montalbano-Brehm, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 8, I Shall Place Nettles on My TongueLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 9, Seek Havens of Peace on Ocean FloorsLansing Mcloskey, Maren Montalbano-Brehm, Elijah Blaisdell, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 10, The Dog in DogmaLansing Mcloskey, Rebecca Siler, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 11, I Am Right, You Are DeadLansing Mcloskey, Elijah Blaisdell, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 12, I Shall Place Werepe on Every TongueLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 13, I Turned to StoneLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 14, The Man DiesLansing Mcloskey, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 15, I'll Drop Ratsbane on My TongueLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 16, The 13th CanticleLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 17, Where Are All the Flowers Gone?Lansing Mcloskey, Rebecca Siler, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 18, Bi o ti waLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 19, Bi o ti wa l'atete koseLansing Mcloskey, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Zealot Canticles: No. 20, On Fire TodayLansing Mcloskey, The Crossing, Doris Hall-Gulati, Rebecca Harris, Mandy Wolman, Lorenzo Raval, Arlen Hlusko, Donald Nally
Lansing McLoskey is a renowned American composer of contemporary classical music, celebrated for his smart, compelling, and fascinating compositions. Born in 1964, McLoskey has established a distinctive voice in the American music scene, with works that have garnered international acclaim. His oratorio "Zealot Canticles: An Oratorio for Tolerance" is a standout piece, reflecting his commitment to meaningful and thought-provoking music. McLoskey's extensive experience as an early music singer and conductor has deeply influenced his compositional style, particularly his affinity for vocal music. As a Professor of Music Composition at the University of Miami's Frost School of Music, he continues to inspire and educate the next generation of musicians. Beyond his musical pursuits, McLoskey is an avid surfer, cyclist, and fly fisherman, embodying a life rich in both artistic and outdoor passions. His music, released on esteemed labels such as Albany, Wergo Schallplatten, and Capstone, offers a journey through his unique musical landscape.
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Lansing Mcloskey
