Immerse yourself in the profound and contemplative world of John Tavener with his compelling album "The Whale + Celtic Requiem." Released on October 22, 2010, under the Parlophone Catalogue label, this album is a masterful blend of minimalism and choral music, spanning a total of 76 minutes. Tavener, known for his deeply spiritual and evocative compositions, delivers a powerful narrative through two distinct yet harmoniously connected works.
"The Whale," the first part of the album, is a seven-movement suite that draws inspiration from the biblical story of Jonah and the whale. Each track, from the opening "Documentary" to the climactic "The Vomiting," weaves a tapestry of sound that is both haunting and transcendent. The choral arrangements are intricate and deeply moving, showcasing Tavener's unique ability to convey profound emotion through music.
The second part of the album, "A Celtic Requiem," is a three-movement choral work that blends traditional Celtic melodies with the solemnity of a requiem. The pieces, "Requiem Aeternam," "Dies Irae," and "Requiescat In Pace," are followed by the serene "Nomine Jesu" and the reflective "Coplas." This section of the album is a testament to Tavener's ability to merge different musical traditions into a cohesive and deeply resonant whole.
Throughout "The Whale + Celtic Requiem," John Tavener's compositions are marked by their simplicity, depth, and spiritual intensity. The album is a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the most significant composers of our time. Whether you are a longtime fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Tracks
The Whale: 1. DocumentaryJohn Tavener, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, David Atherton, Anna Reynolds, Alvar Lidell
The Whale: 2. Melodrama And PantomimeJohn Tavener, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, David Atherton, Anna Reynolds, Alvar Lidell
The Whale: 3. InvocationJohn Tavener, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, David Atherton, Anna Reynolds, Raimund Herincx
The Whale: 4. The StormJohn Tavener, London Sinfonietta, David Atherton
The Whale: 5. The SwallowingJohn Tavener, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, David Atherton, Anna Reynolds, Raimund Herincx, Alvar Lidell
The Whale: 6. The PrayerJohn Tavener, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, David Atherton
The Whale: 7. In The BellyJohn Tavener, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, David Atherton, Anna Reynolds
The Whale: 8. The VomitingJohn Tavener, London Sinfonietta, David Atherton, London Sinfonietta Chorus, Anna Reynolds, Raimund Herincx
A Celtic Requiem: 1. Requiem AeternamJohn Tavener, David Atherton, June Barton, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, Children from the Missenden Village School
A Celtic Requiem: 2. Dies IraeJohn Tavener, David Atherton, June Barton, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, Children From The Little Missenden Village School
A Celtic Requiem: 3. Requiescat In PaceJohn Tavener, David Atherton, June Barton, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, Children From The Little Missenden Village School
Nomine JesuJohn Tavener, Members Of The London Sinfonietta, Members Of The London Sinfonietta Chorus, Margaret Lensky
CoplasJohn Tavener, London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Chorus, David Atherton
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