Immerse yourself in the profound and life-affirming world of Frederick Delius with his masterful cantata, "A Mass of Life." This captivating album, released on November 24, 2023, under Lawo Classics, is a testament to Delius's unique vision and harmonic brilliance. Based on Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophical novel "Thus Spoke Zarathustra," this cantata is a vibrant exploration of life, love, and the human spirit.
Spanning 12 tracks and a duration of 1 hour and 34 minutes, "A Mass of Life" is performed by the esteemed Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Sir Mark Elder, with the exceptional vocal talents of Roderick Williams. The orchestral playing and choral singing are remarkably fresh and alive, with the woodwind section particularly noteworthy. The ensemble's immaculate performance brings Delius's lavish scoring to life, reconciling the dreamer and the visionary within his music.
The album opens with a powerful choral explosion, setting the tone for a journey that is both introspective and exhilarating. From the animated "O du mein Wille!" to the tranquil "In dein Auge schaute ich jüngst, O Leben," and the triumphant "Herauf! Nun herauf, du grosser Mittag!", each track is a masterclass in emotional depth and musical expression. The album's highlight, "Gottes Weh ist tiefer, du wunderliche Welt," showcases Delius's harmonic movement, a quality that sets his work apart.
"Delius: A Mass of Life" is not just an album; it's an experience that will leave you breathless and inspired. Whether you're a longtime fan of Delius or a newcomer to his music, this album is a must-listen. Dive into the world of Frederick Delius and let the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and Roderick Williams guide you through a musical journey that celebrates the beauty and complexity of life.
Tracks
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 1: I. Animato—O du mein Wille!Frederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Mark Elder
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 1: II. Erhebt eure Herzen, Brüder, hoch! (Recitativ)Frederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Roderick Williams, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 1: III. Andante tranquillo con dolcezza—In dein Auge schaute ich jüngst, O LebenFrederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Gemma Summerfield, Claudia Huckle, Bror Magnus Tødenes, Roderick Williams, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 1: IV. Agitato ma moderato—Wehe mir! Wo ist die Zeit hin?Frederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Roderick Williams, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 1: V. Andante molto tranquillo—Nacht ist esFrederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Roderick Williams, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 2: IntroductionFrederick Delius, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Mark Elder
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 2: I. Con elevazione e vigore—Herauf! Nun herauf, du grosser Mittag!Frederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Gemma Summerfield, Claudia Huckle, Bror Magnus Tødenes, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 2: II. Andante—Süsse Leier! Ich liebe deinen TonFrederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Roderick Williams, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 2: III. Lento molto—Lasst vom Tanzen ab, ihr lieblichen Mädchen!Frederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Roderick Williams, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 2: IV. Lento—Heisser Mittag schläft auf den FlurenFrederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Gemma Summerfield, Claudia Huckle, Bror Magnus Tødenes, Roderick Williams, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 2: V. Allegro ma non troppo—Gottes Weh ist tiefer, du wunderliche WeltFrederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Roderick Williams, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
A Mass of Life, RT II/4, Pt. 2: VI. Largo con solennita—Kommt! Lasst uns jetzt wandeln!Frederick Delius, Friedrich Nietzsche, Gemma Summerfield, Claudia Huckle, Bror Magnus Tødenes, Roderick Williams, Sir Mark Elder, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
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