Tavener tips please
Posted by: Bruce Woodhouse on 10 March 2003
Had a quiet night in last night and really got into some Cd's I'd not listened to for a while by John Tavener -The Protecting Veil and The Last Sleep of The Virgin. The latter in particular I really enjoyed, shimmering and strange. Finished the evening with Arvo Part 'Alina' and felt utterly mesmerised.
Tavener is such a prolific chap anyone like to suggest others for me to try? I also have a disc of his choral works including Song for Athene but I think I prefer the orchestral pieces.
Bruce
Posted on: 10 March 2003 by Pete
It's not for full orchestra, but I really like the "Tears of the Angels" CD on Linn performed by the BT Scottish Ensemble a great deal.
3 pieces, "Depart in Peace" has JT's favourite soprano, Patricia Rosario, singing a simple but very effective part as well as the string ensemble. The title piece brings a whole new meaning to upper register violin and is beutifully played by Clio Gould leading the ensemble, while the other one uses pre-recorded loops as well the ensemble playing along. The whole lot is a very spiritual collection of work and IMHO well worth the price of admission.
Pete.
Posted on: 12 March 2003 by Tarquin Maynard - Portly
Bruce
Eternity's Sunrise gives me goosebumps. Vocals by Patricia Rozario; unique.
Mike
Posted on: 13 March 2003 by the other nickc
I can definately give my vote to 'eternity's sunrise'. It's really quite special. You can pick up a used copy on Amazon for £5 too!
Nick
Posted on: 13 March 2003 by Simon Douglass
Bruce
I've bought some Tavener recently,not listened yet so unable to offer opinion.Have got song for Athene etc on Naxos:surprisingly good recording,superbly moving music.Currently listening to Arvo Part's De Profundis by Theatre of Voices on Harmundi usa[the great man was present at the recording]It's excellent and the title track is stunning.
Simon
Posted on: 13 March 2003 by Bruce Woodhouse
Thanks for the tips so far.
I started getting into Arvo Part a while back but have not heard 'De Profundis'. Of the 4 or 5 I own 'Te deum' is remarkable for a choral work and 'Alina' surely the most soothing piece of music I have ever heard.
The Naxos CD I already own (Song For Athene etc). Did not quite inspire me as much as the 'Last Sleep of The Virgin' which seemed somehow more thougtful and , well, 'strange'.
I'm waiting for Linn records to deliver Pete's recomendation. Keep em coming!
Bruce
Bruce
Posted on: 13 March 2003 by the other nickc
Bruce and Nick,
I'm also a big fan of Arvo Part fan. Can't seem to get enough of his 'holy minimalism' (or whatever you choose to call it!). Alina and Te Deum are particular favourites along with 'Cantus in Memory of Benjamin Britten' which I find particulary moving.
I don't know if you've heard any John Rutter?
He is an English Composer who has links with Arvo Part (I think they graduated from the same college of music) although his music could be said to be more traditional. I can really recommend his 'Requiem'. It was the first piece of Choral music that 'clicked' with me.
Nick
