Gregorian Themes (Improvisations of Gregorian Chants)

Product Description
EXCEPTIONALLY BEAUTIFUL MUSIC...PEACEFUL, TRANQUIL...A WONDERFUL RECORDING! Improvisations of Gregorian Chants performed on Pan Pipes and Organ.

Gregorian Themes (Improvisations of Gregorian Chants),Jean-Claude Mara,Georges Berenes,New Age Music,Easy Listening,Pop

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Average customer rating: Choral work at it's finest. Love it Light and shadows Cambridge Singers = Quality American Gramaphone, please reissue this title.

Brother Sun, Sister Moon Gregorian Chant , William Byrd , John Taverner , Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina , Samuel Scheidt , John Sheppard , Maurice Durufle , Robert White , Cambridge Singers , Gerald Finley , and John Rutter Manufacturer: American Gramaphone ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Byrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Sheppard | Sheppard, John | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Taverner | Taverner, John | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by White | White, Robert | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Sacred & Religious | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Chants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Partsongs | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Brother Sun, Sister Moon Stillness And Sweet Harmony Hail, Gladdening Light: Music of the English Church Faire is the Heaven: Music of the English Church Lighten our Darkness ASIN: B0000005MF Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Music Of The Morning Rite: a. Alleluia - b. Haec Dies
2. Music Of The Morning Rite: Easter Sequence
3. Dum Transisset Sabbatum
4. Sanctus
5. Exsultate Deo
6. a. Easter Acclamations b. Surrexit Christus Hodie
7. Music Of The Evening Rite: Before The Ending Of The Day
8. Music Of The Evening Rite: In Pace
9. Music Of The Evening Rite: Into Thy Hands, O Lord
10. Music Of The Evening Rite: Ubi Caritas
11. Music Of The Evening Rite: Keep Me As The Apple Of An Eye And Nunc Dimittisa
12. Music Of The Evening Rite: O Christ, Who Art The Light And Day
13. Music Of The Evening Rite: a. We Will Lay Us Down In Peace b. Libera Nos, Salva Nos

Amazon.com

A brief glance at the packaging for this recording might make you think New Age, and indeed this label normally offers recordings in that vein. The disc's cover tells nothing about the music inside--all we see are the ruins of an ancient abbey, the moon in the sky on the front, the sun on the back. But wait. If you get far enough to listen to the recording, you'll find one of the most beautiful and beautifully programmed choral recordings in the catalog. The compositions, organized into the categories "Music of the Morning Rite" and "Music of the Evening Rite," are mostly from 16th- century composers--Byrd, Taverner, Sheppard, White--with a few Gregorian chants and a gorgeous rendition of the 20th-century motet by Duruflé, "Ubi caritas." Conductor/choral music legend John Rutter has assembled a program that's both uplifting and restful; the performance is faultless. One could only complain about the short (39 and a half minutes) playing time. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Choral work at it's finest........2007-06-03

I really enjoyed this work. I was first introduced to this title through American Gramophone's website and was also my first introduction in the works of John Rutter and the Cambridge Singers. You do not have be religious to enjoy this work. I find the music uplifting and very sublime. I have listened to it many times, and I find that my favorite period to play it is in the morning hours. .

I have since purchased many other Rutter titles including "Images of Christ", and more recently "Lighten our Darkness"

Love it.......2007-05-02

13 years ago, I had the tape of brother sun, sister moon and as a teenager and I would play it every night as I slept, I loved it. I dont know what happened to it and I have ever sence been looking for it, and I just baught the CD and am so excited.

Light and shadows.......2003-07-29

Recorded in the Great Hall of University College School, London, the Cambridge Singers under the direction of John Rutter produced a true masterpiece in 'Brother Sun, Sister Moon' in 1988. The title derives from a famous prayer by St. Francis of Assisi, and is inspired by liturgical music from (or derivative of) the Middle Ages and Renaissance polyphony and Gregorian chant. The music is meditative, uplifting, and elegant in simplicity and stunning vocal quality.

--Brother Sun--
The first half of the disc is largely composed of pieces from the liturgical Morning Prayer cycle, concentrating on texts from Easter, the most important of Christian days. From the Alleluia to the Acclamations and Surrexit Christus Hodie (Christ is risen today), the flow from Gregorian Chant to compositions by Byrd, Taverner and Palestrina (giants of this type of music) in increasing energy and glory, as befits both a Morning service (time to wake up!) as well as a celebration of the resurrection of Christ. Perhaps of particular note here is the cantoring of bass Gerald Finley in the Easter Acclamations.

--Sister Moon--
The second half of the disc concentrates on music of the evening; in particular, the Compline service, a service of unwinding and sombre meditation with which monastic communities conclude their days of work and worship. Many churches have reincorporated Compline into a regular cycle of services; some have even done so as a result of exposure to this recording. The music here is softer and less energetic than that of Morning prayer. This includes music from Whyte and Sheppard (also masters of the Medieval-to-Renaissance liturgical polyphony) as well as a brilliant motet by twentieth century composer Duruflé for the Ubi Caritas.

--Liner Notes--
The notes for this recording include the titles and words, in both Latin and English, for each of the pieces recorded here. It has an excerpt from a prayer by St. Francis, and a basic introduction to the music relating it historically and liturgically. One thing conspicuously missing is any biographical information about John Rutter, or any descriptive information about the Cambridge Singers apart from the basic listing of singers.

--John Rutter--
Rutter was born in London and educated at Clare College, Cambridge. This was where his career as a composer, arranger and conductor began. His early work was with groups at King's College Chapel at Cambridge as well as the Bath Choir and Philharmonic Orchestra. He has worked for the BBC providing music for educational series such as 'The Archaeology of the Bible Lands', until in 1979 he began forming the Cambridge Singers, and has continued a remarkable career of performance and recording as their director ever since.

--The Cambridge Singers--
The Cambridge Singers are a mixed choir of voices, many of whom were members of choir of Rutter's college, Clare College, Cambridge. While they specialise in English and Latin liturgical pieces, they have a wide range of recordings that span from modern compositions (including a remarkable requiem by Rutter) to English folk songs of the Middle Ages. For this particular recording, the choir consisted of eleven sopranos, six altos, six tenors, and six basses.

Cambridge Singers = Quality.......2002-05-23

I do love this cd, but tend to play certain tracks as my first love is chant. I play the Victimae Paschali Laudes in the car and sing along - it is so very beautiful that this rendition of this Easter Chant is worth purchasing this cd alone. I love that one track so much, my only criticism of the cd is that I wish they'd centered the entire cd on chant - and I hope they will do one like that in the future because the quality of the voices is stunning.

American Gramaphone, please reissue this title........2000-03-30

I originally obtained this CD through Minnesota Public Radio. The first time I listened to the Ubi Caritus, I was moved to tears. The CD became my favorite to play at Christmas and other times. I gave the CD to a friend who has moved to Oregon, deeply regret that it is no longer in production.

John Rutter trains his singers to sing without vibrato, and blends their voices with such balance that they come together as a single instrument. The selection on this CD is perfect to demonstrate the clarity and richness of this ensemble. If American Gramaphone does reissue this title, I will be first in line to purchase it.

Average customer rating: Such a Beautiful Requiem Great French Music All things bright and beautiful... PERFECTION!!

Durufle: Requiem, Mass-Con Jubilo, Motets / Plasson, von Otter Maurice Duruflé , Michel Plasson , Anne Sofie von Otter , Marie-Claire Alain , Thomas Hampson , Orchestre du Capitole de Toulouse , and Orféon Donostiarra Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Berlioz: Requiem; Boito: Prologue to Mefistofele Dvorák: Requiem Fauré · Duruflé - Requiem / J. Blegen · J. Morris · Atlanta SO · Shaw Saint-Saëns: Les 5 Symphonies Duruflé: Requiem Op.9/Messe Cum Jubilo,Op.11 ASIN: B000031X3K Release Date: 2000-02-01

Tracks:

1. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: I Introit
2. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: II Kyrie
3. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: III Domine Jesus Christe
4. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: Hostias
5. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: IV Sanctus
6. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: V Pie Jesu
7. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: VI Agnus Dei
8. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: VII Lux aeterna
9. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: VIII Libera me
10. Requiem pour soli, choeur, orchestre & orgue, Op.9: IX In Paradisum
11. Messe (cum jubilo) pour baryton solo, choeur de barytons, orchestre & orgue, Op.11: I Kyrie
12. Messe (cum jubilo) pour baryton solo, choeur de barytons, orchestre & orgue, Op.11: II Gloria
13. Messe (cum jubilo) pour baryton solo, choeur de barytons, orchestre & orgue, Op.11: III Sanctus
14. Messe (cum jubilo) pour baryton solo, choeur de barytons, orchestre & orgue, Op.11: IV Benedictus
15. Messe (cum jubilo) pour baryton solo, choeur de barytons, orchestre & orgue, Op.11: V Agnus Dei
16. 4 Motets sur des themes gregoriens pour choeur a cappella, Op.10: I Ubi caritas (4 voix mixtes)
17. 4 Motets sur des themes gregoriens pour choeur a cappella, Op.10: II Tota pulchra es (3 voix de femmes)
18. 4 Motets sur des themes gregoriens pour choeur a cappella, Op.10: III Tu es Petrus (4 voix mixtes)
19. 4 Motets sur des themes gregoriens pour choeur a cappella, Op.10: IV Tantum ergo (4 voix mixtes)
20. Notre Pere pour choeur a cappella (4 voix mixtes), Op.14

Amazon.com

This is the 1947, full-orchestra version of Maurice Duruflé's Requiem, one of the 20th century's most beloved choral works. It's the first of three versions the composer made of the piece. Despite the enhanced intimacy of the smaller-scale versions, the original offers a rich orchestral tapestry, especially compelling in the performance by Michel Plasson's forces, without diminishing the work's radiant beauties or its spiritual depths. Those virtues are enhanced by the singing of Anne Sofie von Otter and Thomas Hampson. The chorus, a weak element in the Requiem, shines brighter on the rest of the disc, which gathers all of Duruflé's choral music. The Mass is more assertive than the Requiem and should be heard more often. It gets a powerful performance here, as do the miniature Motets, intense in their restrained beauties. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Such a Beautiful Requiem.......2006-04-20

If you're a fan of requiems (especially the ones made by Brahms, Faure, and Berlioz) then you'll love this one by Maurice Durufle. It sounds so angelic and passionate. Michel Plasson's superb handling of the Orchestre du Capitole de Toulouse and the Orfeon Donostiarra gives makes this piece of work shine with full fervor and magnificence. The vocal soloists, von Otter and Hampson, never miss a step. This is a beautiful, but sometimes neglected, requiem, and it should be more recognized from outside of France.

Great French Music.......2006-02-27

I love this composition and its rendition by Michael Plasson. However, the inept sound recording used on this CD greatly reduces its value. Wish it were issued on SACD.

All things bright and beautiful..........2005-09-01

I've listened to 4 different recordings of Durufle's Requiem closely: Santa Cecilia National Academy Orchestra Rome with Cecilia Bartoli and Conducted by Myung-Whun Chung, Voices of Ascension Chorus & Orchestra with Patricia Spence and Conducted by Dennis Keene, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra & Chorus with Judith Blegen and Conducted by Robert Shaw, and this one. And I have to say that this is my favorite. The textures are richer and the performances by the orchestra and choir are better than the others. I will admit though that Cecilia Bartoli gets my vote for most beautiful performance of the Pie Jesu, but Anne Sofie von Otter's rendition is also very nice.
However, if you're looking for just one recording of Durufle's Requiem, this should be the one.

PERFECTION!!.......2001-08-13

This is one of the most beautiful CDs on the face of the planet. Durufle, a composer of the French Organ School, was a composer who possessed much reserve and this shows through in the restrained beauty of his music. Of particular interest is Track 16, UBI CARITAS--Durufle as well as the chorus are at their best here. The chorus sings the beautiful motet gently and with much feeling. The sublime beauty of this work of art instantly brings Durufle as an equal to that of Mozart, Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, and Beethoven. This music is not for those who like humungous bangs but rather those who can appreiate the quiet dignity of this man's work.

Average customer rating: An Excellent Compilation

Cathedral Dreams: Music to Inspire Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Barber | Barber, Samuel | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Byrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Dufay | Dufay, Guillaume | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Górecki, Henryk Mikolaj | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Machaut | Machaut, Guillaume de | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Messiaen | Messiaen, Olivier | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Poulenc | Poulenc, Francis | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Part | Part, Arvo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tallis | Tallis, Thomas | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tavener | Tavener, John Kenneth | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Sacred & Religious | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Chants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Magnificats | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Compilations | New Age | Styles | Music A Cappella | Folk | Styles | Music Similar Items: Classical Dreams: Music to Inspire Images of Christ O Magnum Mysterium ASIN: B00006I0D1 Release Date: 2002-09-17

Tracks:

1. Messe De Nostre Dame- Introitus - Machaut
2. Song For Athene - Tavener
3. Ave Maria - Rachmaninov
4. Agnus Dei - Barber
5. Summa - Part
6. Ubi Caritas - Durufle
7. Introitus - Dufay
8. Requiem- Agnus Dei - Catoire
9. Salve Regina - Poulenc
10. Alleluia - Organum
11. Antienne - Mass Of The Epiphany
12. O Salutaris Hostia - Villette
13. Being Risen From The Tomb - Rachmoninov
14. 7 Magnificat Antiphons- O Weisheit - Part
15. Diliges Dominum - Byrd
16. Communio - Dufay
17. Requiem- Requiem Aeternam - Catoire
18. Tota Pulchra Es - Durufle
19. This Day Is Salvation Come - Rachmaninov
20. O Sacrum Convivium - Messiaen

Tracks:

1. Totus Tuus - Gorecki
2. 7 Magnificat Antiphons- O Morgenstern - Part
3. Tantum Ergo - Darufle
4. Ave Maria - Palestrina
5. Blessed Is The Man - Rachmaninov
6. Adoramus Te, Christe - Stephen Cleobury
7. Requiem- Libera Me - Catoire
8. Solfeggio - Part
9. Beati Mundo Corde - Byrd
10. O Nata Lux De Lumine - Tallis
11. Our Father (Notre Pere) - Durufle
12. Agnus Dei (Missa Papae Marcelli) - David Willcocks
13. As One Who Has Slept - Tavener
14. O Magnum Mysterium - Villette
15. Lux Aeterna - Catoire
16. Alleluia - Dufay
17. 7 Magnificat Antiphons- O Immanuel - Part
18. The Six Psalms - Rachmaninov
19. Veni Sancta Spiritus - Dudley
20. Alma Redemptoris Mater - Stephen Cleobury

Customer Reviews:

An Excellent Compilation.......2004-06-16

This is probably one of the best compilations of early choral music I have heard, let alone own. A fantastic selection of works, including some modal pieces by composers such as Samuel Barber with his famous "Agnus Dei", creates a very nice variety of complexity. The overall tone of both CDs is very peaceful yet uplifting, and the performers are highly talented and spirited. This is a wonderful and unsurpassed addition to my collection. A must for any lover of early choral works.

Average customer rating: Rum-Rum Rumble rumble Sublime versions and top class recordings. Deceptive Durufle Duruflés Requiem and original intentions.

Fauré: Requiem; Cantique de Jean Racine; Duruflé: Requiem; Quatre Motets Manufacturer: Polygram Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Poulenc | Poulenc, Francis | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Brahms - Ein Deutsches Requiem (A German Requiem) / Auger, Stilwell, Atlanta SO, Robert Shaw Fauré · Duruflé - Requiem / J. Blegen · J. Morris · Atlanta SO · Shaw ASIN: B00000420Y Release Date: 1995-06-13

Tracks:

1. Requiem, Op. 48: Introit - Kyrie - Various Artists
2. Requiem, Op. 48: Offertoire - Various Artists
3. Requiem, Op. 48: III. Sanctus - Various Artists
4. Requiem, Op. 48: IV. Pie Jesu - Various Artists
5. Requiem, Op. 48: V. Agnus Dei - Various Artists
6. Requiem, Op. 48: VI. Libera me - Various Artists
7. Requiem, Op. 48: VII. In paradisum - Various Artists
8. Cantique de Jean Racine, Op. 11 - Various Artists
9. Messe basse: : I. Kyrie - Various Artists
10. Messe basse: Sanctus - Various Artists
11. Messe basse: Benedictus - Various Artists
12. Messe basse: Agnus Dei - Various Artists
13. G Major: Kyrie - Various Artists
14. G Major: Gloria - Francis Poulenc
15. G Major: Sanctus - Francis Poulenc
16. G Major: Benedictus - Francis Poulenc
17. G Major: Agnus Dei - Francis Poulenc
18. Salve Regina - Francis Poulenc

Tracks:

1. Requiem: Introit--Kyrie - Faure/Durufle
2. Requiem: Domine Jesu Christe - Faure/Durufle
3. Requiem: Sanctus - Faure/Durufle
4. Requiem: Pie Jesu - Faure/Durufle
5. Requiem: Agnus Dei - Faure/Durufle
6. Requiem: Lux Aeterna - Faure/Durufle
7. Requiem: Libera me - Faure/Durufle
8. Requiem: In Paradisum - Faure/Durufle
9. Prelude et Fugue sur le nom d'Alain - Faure/Durufle
10. Quatre Motets: Ubi caritas et amor - Faure/Durufle
11. Quatre Motets: Tota pulchra es - Faure/Durufle
12. Quatre Motets: Tu es Petrus - Faure/Durufle
13. Quatre Motets: Tantum ergo Sacramentum - Faure/Durufle
14. Litanies a la Vierge Noire - Faure/Durufle
15. Exultate Deo - Faure/Durufle

Customer Reviews:

Rum-Rum.......2007-03-14

Any review of this recording that fails to mention the distracting background noise makes one wonder how closely the reviewer was listening. Throughout the Duruflé Requiem, there is a consistent noise that sounds like a needle stuck in a grove at the end of an old LP: "rum-rum, rum-rum, rum-rum..." While it is possible one might not hear it played back through speakers, it is impossible to miss through headphones.

As to the performance, I prefer the austere sound of the organ against the ethereal sounds of the chorus. My only reservation lies with the boy tremble, whose vocal output is unsteady, almost nervous sounding, as though he were being forced to sing. I don't think an idea performance with organ accompaniment exists, but this performance comes as close as any I have heard.

Rumble rumble.......2006-10-15

I just got this CD a few weeks ago because I wanted both the Faure and the Durufle. I'm not going to pick on anybody for supposed intonation problems (I listen to Bob Dylan and Ryan Adams regularly) or anything else. I really like the recordings of every piece I've heard on this CD set.

But has anybody else noticed some pretty major traffic noises during the Durufle Quatre Motets, specificall track 11? It sounds like they recorded next to a race track.

Outside of that, I think this set is a worthwhile investment.

Sublime versions and top class recordings........2006-09-03

This version of Durufle's Requiem is just mesmerizing, I have the Telarc, which is great... until you listen to this one.
Sound quality is top notch too for a seventies recording.

Deceptive Durufle.......2003-11-27

If one were to listen solely to the Faure Requiem and some of the other choral works on this 2 CD compilation, this would be a decent recording of great French choral music. However, as someone looking for a good recording of the Durufle, I was highly disappointed. Not only is the recording simply an organ reduction of full score, but the quality of singing was below what one would expect to find on a CD from a major label. Marked by under-developed techniques and inconsistencies in pitch, the recording is good if you need to learn the work in a hurry, but little else. If you're in the market for a Faure recording, this will do the job and you can preview the Durufle, but look elsewhere for a serious recording of such a rich work.

Duruflés Requiem and original intentions........2003-02-02

Both Duruflé and Fauré wrote their Requiems for choir and organ first. The orchestrations were afterthoughts bending to the excesses of public appeal and publishers demands. Both works can be wonderful with orchestra and on this CD you will find, as usual with St. Martin in the Fields, a beautiful recording of the Fauré Requem with orchestra. However, on this CD you will find the Duruflé Requiem in the original choir and organ only version, and this, in my opinion, is not only the preferable way to listen to the work - in it's original casting, but this performance is the best around with a most lush and complex tone from the trebles in the boy choir.

Average customer rating:

Todd Wilson:Great French Virtuosic Organ Music Manufacturer: Delos Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Demessieux, Jeanne | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dupré, Marcel | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music ASIN: B0000006Y8 Release Date: 1992-12-11

Tracks:

1. Sonata Eroica, Op. 94
2. Th Et Variations From 'Hommage A Frescobaldi'
3. Cort Et Litanie, Op. 19, No. 2
4. Variations De Concert, Op. 1
5. Three Chorale Preludes
6. Symphonie Romane, Op. 73

Average customer rating: Great Find for Lovers of Liturgical Music Wonderful This CD is no Joke! Durufle would be impressed... The best recording of this work.

Maurice Duruflé: Requiem; Quatre Motets Manufacturer: Hyperion UK ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Allen, Thomas | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Duruflé: Requiem Op.9/Messe Cum Jubilo,Op.11 Faure: Requiem and other choral music Fauré · Duruflé - Requiem / J. Blegen · J. Morris · Atlanta SO · Shaw ASIN: B000002ZIS Release Date: 1992-10-26

Tracks:

1. Requiem: Introit
2. Requiem: Kyrie
3. Requiem: Domine Jesu Christe
4. Requiem: Sanctus
5. Requiem: Pie Jesu
6. Requim: Agnus Dei
7. Requim: Lux aeterna
8. Requim: Libera me
9. Requim: In Paradisum
10. Quarte Motets Sur Des Themes Gregoriens, Op. 10: Ubi caritas et amor
11. Quatre Motets Sur Des Themes Gregoriens, Op. 10: Tota Pulchra es
12. Quatre Motets Sur Des Themes Gregoriens, Op. 10: Tu es Petrus
13. Quatre Motets Sur Des Themes Gregoriens, Op. 10: Tantum ergo

Customer Reviews:

Great Find for Lovers of Liturgical Music.......2007-06-18

Durufle's Requiem is a member of a sparely populated genre of religious music, but it offers something from the 20th century to match the great funereal works of the 18th and 19th centuries by the likes of Mozart and Verde. The realization is excellent, with none of the 'reverb' commonly heard on liturgical works done in churches. My only disappointment with this CD is that it is so short; however, this may be primarily due to the fact that Durufle simply didn't write much material to fill out our insatiable 21st century appetites. This is a great find, if you like Liturgical music (In Latin, with English translation in the notes).

Wonderful.......2005-10-23

I purchased this to use in training for a choir that I am in, and fell in love with it for it's own merits. The cantors are amazing, and the balance and production flawless. Enjoy.

This CD is no Joke!.......2003-02-07

I have to say. I'm 22 years old and I've owned this cd for about 2 in a half years. This is still by far the most special and the most touching CD I have ever owned and listened to. A few nights ago, I listened to it and by the time it was at the end of the Agnus Dei, I was just in tears. Its a very personal and intimate experience. Just make sure you have a quality system so you can listen out for all the sublties in this piece. It has many. This definetely should be up for some awards! BUY THIS CD!!!!!

Durufle would be impressed..........2001-07-11

The best way to listen to this recording is to lay the CD in the tray, press , and sit back for about an hour to experience the closest thing to heaven there is on earth. I have never heard a more perfect blend of chorus, orchestra & organ... the three things which, combined, have the potential to create an unbelievable roar... but here, are able to produce the softest most delicate pianissimo - barely registering on the microphones. Sopranos have absolutely NO vibrato (a definite PLUS!) giving the chant-inspired melodies a crisp, clean presence.

Durufle's harmonic language demands repeat listening so that one can absorb the rich colors and complex counterpoint - I hear something new every time.

... and I must disagree with a previous comment regarding the "Pie Jesu". The performance is as dark and rich as the finest chocolate.

Enjoy this jewel. Highly recommended.

The best recording of this work........2000-06-23

This is certainly one of the finest choral works of the 20th century. Durufle wrote very few works, and those he did complete are unmistakably works of true genius. It's easy to understand why this is, if you consider that he is one of the last of the great "French Organ School" of composers. He was instructed by famous musical geniuses, and held himself to their high standards from the very beginning.

This recording is transcendent and definitive. The "Kyrie" has never been more lovely, or more lyric than in this rendition. I admit my eyes usually water when I hear the climax of the movement. Of the soloists I have heard sing the baritone solos, none surpasses Thomas Allen (one of the true greats!) The raging section of the "Domine Jesu Christe" is performed at an aggressive, relentless tempo, which lacks neither power nor beauty. Here, and in the "Sanctus", the ensemble achieves a magnificent fortissimo, with perfect blend from top to bottom, and immediately shows that it is also capable of a perfect pianissimo. Thomas Trotter, as always, gives a perfect performance on his organ, with ideal stop choices. The "In paradisum" is more ethereal than I have ever heard it, and the sopranos navigate their way through the notoriously difficult opening phrases without the slightest glitch (I wonder how many takes this took!)

My one problem with this recording concerns the "Pie Jesu". It is difficult, after hearing Dame Janet Baker (I believe it's with O'Donnell and Westminster, though it could be Hill and Winchester) sing it. Anne Murray certainly has a beautiful voice, but it lacks the power of an operatic mezzo, which is what (I believe) the song really needs. If only Christa Ludwig had recorded it...

Durufle's Quatre Motets have never sounded this good. The perennial-favorite "Ubi Caritas" is warm, rich, and passionate. This recording of "Tu es Petrus" is the fastest, most rousing version I've heard.

Overall, wonderful. One of the most beautiful and spectacular choral recordings available.

Average customer rating: Great, but not the greatest

Duruflé: Sacred Choral & Organ Works, Vol. 1 Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Requiems | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Requiems | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Duruflé: Sacred Choral & Organ Works, Vol. 2 ASIN: B000001461 Release Date: 1995-09-19

Tracks:

1. Requiem, Op. 9 - Introit
2. Requiem, Op. 9 - Kyrie
3. Requiem, Op. 9 - Domine Jesu Christe
4. Requiem, Op. 9 - Sanctus
5. Requiem, Op. 9 - Pie Jesu
6. Requiem, Op. 9 - Agnus Dei
7. Requiem, Op. 9 - Lux aeterna
8. Requiem, Op. 9 - Libera me
9. Requiem, Op. 9 - In Paradisum
10. Quatre Motets sur des themes gregoriens, Op. 10 - Ubi caritas
11. Quatre Motets sur des themes gregoriens, Op. 10 - Tota pulchra es
12. Quatre Motets sur des themes gregoriens, Op. 10 - Tu es Petrus
13. Quatre Motets sur des themes gregoriens, Op. 10 - Tantum ergo
14. Scherzo, Op. 2
15. Notre Pere, Op. 14
16. Prelude et fugue sur le nom d'A.L.A.I.N., Op. 7 - Prelude
17. Prelude et fugue sur le nom d'A.L.A.I.N., Op. 7 - Fugue

Amazon.com

Ah, such pretty music. Durufle was one of those French mystical types--full of Gregorian chant-inspired melody. His organ music is thoroughly typical of his small but immaculately crafted output. The Scherzo is a real charmer, while the Prelude and fugue pays affectionate tribute to a talented colleague. His Requiem became so popular that the composer arranged it for every instrumental combination except perhaps kazoo orchestra. This version is the one featuring a big solo organ part (with chamber orchestra), and it's well performed and recorded. Piquemal's vocal ensemble isn't the last word in polish, but they sing with enthusiasm and fans of the composer need not hesitate. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Great, but not the greatest.......2003-04-17

This is a recording of the "reduced orchestration" version of the Duruflé Requiem. It's scored for trumpets, timpani, harp, strings (in addition to the solo cello), and organ. The added instruments give it a somewhat warmer feeling than the organ-and-cello only version (available on Hyperion), and a somewhat smaller, more intimate feeling than the full orchestra version (perhaps my favorite version, especially Robert Shaw's Telarc recording).

Piquemal et al. turn in an admirable performance. My two favorite moments are the climactic "Dies irae" section in the "Libera me," where the smaller forces actually sound, in their own way, *more* ominous than in larger versions; and the "In Paradisum," where the chorus gives an ethereal sound missed by most other versions. The only downside is that Beatrice Uria-Manzon has a shade too much vibrato in the central "Pie Jesu," but certainly not enough to make you want to skip ver that track.

The extras at the end of the CD are good; while this isn't the best recording available (and perhaps not even of the reduced version--Dennis Keene offers another excellent recording on Delos)--it's certainly the best bargain.

Average customer rating: mas o menos Christ Church Cathedral

Into the Light Manufacturer: Four Winds ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Byrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Bruckner | Bruckner, Anton | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Gabrieli, Giovanni | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Holst | Holst, Gustav | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Monteverdi | Monteverdi, Claudio | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sacred & Religious | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B000005A7Y Release Date: 2001-03-05

Tracks:

1. Os Justi
2. Ubi Caritas
3. Gloria (Missa Secunda)
4. O Sacrum Convivium
5. Sanctus (Missa O Quam Gloriosum)
6. Ave Maris Stella (Vesperae 1610)
7. Cantate Domino
8. Beati Quorum Via
9. Exaudi Dimine
10. Locus Iste
11. Sanctus & Benedictus (Missa Secunda)
12. Tota Pulchra Es
13. Tu Es Petrus
14. Tantum Ergo
15. Kyrie (Missa O Quam Gloriosum)
16. Gloria (Missa O Quam Gloriosum)
17. Ave Verum Corpus
18. O Quam Gloriosum
19. Laetentur Coeli
20. Nunc Dimittis

Customer Reviews:

mas o menos.......2002-08-15

Si bien el coro es de un buen nivel, la verdad es que el sonido no es como yo esperaba, y algunas interpretaciones están un poco apresuradas y con poco fraseo.

Christ Church Cathedral.......2001-10-14

As a former member of the choir and a participant on this album, I am not exactly unbiased in my review. But, I can tell you that the album was recorded in some of God's own spaces like San Marcos in Venice, some Jesuit church in Venice whose name I don't remember, Westminster Abbey, and St Peter's, Rome. The sound of the choir on these tours was even better than I remembered it. And the added bonus of supporting a men and boys choir, especially an American men and boys choir is irresistible. The music performed on the CD is also rare. Some of the pieces on the disc are pieces I tried to find for years without luck. Several of the pieces feature a countertenor section that was unmatched on this side of the Atlantic. As a serious classical music fan, I highly recommend this album, aside from the personal attachment to the choir. You will have a hard time matching this album anywhere with the quality of the performance, the rooms in which it was recorded, the repertoire, and the chance to hear one of the five best men and boy's choirs in America. There's more than corn in Indiana.

Average customer rating:

Silence & Music Manufacturer: Gothic Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Britten | Britten, Sir Benjamin | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Byrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Howells, Herbert | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vaughan Williams, Ralph | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Walton | Walton, Sir William | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Vaughan Williams, Ralph | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Harvest Home ASIN: B000003J93 Release Date: 1994-03-22

Tracks:

1. Adam Lay In Bondage
2. Drop, Down Dew, O Heavens
3. Hodie Christus Natus Est
4. Joys Seven
5. It Is A Thing Most Wonderful
6. The Blue Bird
7. Silence And Music
8. Thee Will I Love
9. Morning Glory, Starlit Sky
10. Antiphon
11. Out Of The Deep
12. Non Vos Relinquam Orphanos
13. Cantie Tuba
14. Versa Est In Luctum
15. Ubi Caritas
16. Crux Fidelis
17. Love Bade Me Welcome
18. Let The Peoples Praise You, O God
19. Prayer Of The Venerable Bede
20. Blessed Are The Pure In Heart
21. Jubilate Deo

Average customer rating:

Glorious Trinity Anonymous , Johann Sebastian Bach , Johannes Brahms , Maurice Durufle , Gabriel Faure , Olivier Messiaen , Sir Charles H.H. Parry , Francis Poulenc , Henry Purcell , Heinrich Schutz , Charles Villiers Stanford , Christmas Traditional , Tomas Luis de Victoria , William Walton , and Cambridge The Choir of Trinity College Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Messiaen | Messiaen, Olivier | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Poulenc | Poulenc, Francis | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Purcell, Henry | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Walton | Walton, Sir William | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Purcell, Henry | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Magnificats | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music ASIN: B0000024C7 Release Date: 1995-07-18

Tracks:

1. Glorious Trinity: Magnificat
2. Glorious Trinity: Never Weather-Beaten Sail
3. Psalms Of David: Der Herr sprach zu meinem, Herren
4. Glorious Trinity: I Was Glad
5. Glorious Trinity: Ubi caritas
6. Glorious Trinity: Tota pulchra es
7. Lobet den Herrn: I. Lobet den Herrn BWV.320
8. Lobet den Herrn: II. Hallelujah!
9. Glorious Trinity: Seigneur, je vous en prie
10. Glorious Trinity: Exultate Deo
11. Glorious Trinity: Requiem - In paradisum
12. Der Geist hilft unsrer Schwachheit auf, BWV.226: I. Der Geist hilft unsrer Schwachheit auf: II. Der aber die Herzen: III. Du heilige Brunst
13. Glorious Trinity: Hear My Prayer
14. Glorious Trinity: Judas Mercator
15. Glorious Trinity: Unus Ex Discipulis
16. Glorious Trinity: O Sacrum Convivium!
17. Glorious Trinity: Eternal Father
18. Glorious Trinity: Geistliches Lied
19. There Is No Rose
20. Of The Father's Heart
21. Sweet Was The Song
22. Glorious Trinity: Requiem - Sanctus

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1. Gypsy Sun Gypsy Moon
2. Hearts of Space: Cruisers 1.0
3. Hearts of Space: Universe 3
4. Hearts of Space: Universe 4
5. Japanese Mysteries
6. Jean Michel Jarre in Concert: Houston-Lyon [Live]
7. Legend of the Flute Boy
8. Live on Earth...For a Limited Time Only [Live]
9. Logikal
10. Looking Glass

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