Stephen Paulus - Paulus: Three Places of Enlightenment, Veil of Tears & Grand Concerto (LP)

Stephen Paulus presents a captivating collection of choral and orchestral works in his album "Three Places of Enlightenment, Veil of Tears & Grand Concerto." Released on October 7, 2014, under the Naxos label, this album showcases Paulus' mastery of composition, blending intricate string quartet performances with the powerful presence of the orchestra. The album features the Nashville Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Giancarlo Guerrero, delivering a rich and dynamic soundscape.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Concerto for String Quartet and Orchestra, 'Three Places of Enlightenment,'" a three-movement work that explores themes of introspection, distance, and expansive radiance. Each movement offers a unique emotional and musical journey, from the introspective "From Within" to the expansive "From All Around and Radiating Ever Outward." The album also includes "To Be Certain of the Dawn, Pt. 2 'Remembrance': Interlude. Veil of Tears," a poignant piece that adds a layer of depth and reflection to the collection.

The "Grand Concerto" is a standout, featuring three distinct movements that range from the vivacious and spirited first movement to the austere and foreboding second, culminating in a jubilant finale. This work, along with the others on the album, highlights Paulus' ability to create music that is both technically impressive and deeply moving.

With a total duration of 56 minutes, this album is a testament to Stephen Paulus' enduring legacy as a composer, offering a rich tapestry of sound and emotion that will resonate with both new and longtime fans of choral and orchestral music.