Anton Bruckner, a name synonymous with grand symphonies, reveals another facet of his musical genius in this captivating album, "Bruckner: Mass in E Minor, Motets." Released on October 16, 2020, under the prestigious Kings College Cambridge label, this collection offers a profound exploration of Bruckner's sacred choral works, performed by the renowned Academy of St. Martin in the Fields.
The album is a blend of Bruckner's Mass No. 2 in E Minor, a monumental setting of the mass ordinary, and a selection of his motets. The Mass No. 2, composed for eight-part mixed choir and fifteen wind instruments, is a testament to Bruckner's ability to create deeply spiritual and musically complex works. The motets, including pieces like "Ecce sacerdos magnus" and "Ave Maria," showcase Bruckner's intimate and contemplative side.
With a total runtime of 57 minutes, the album is a journey through Bruckner's sacred music, offering a rich and varied listening experience. From the solemnity of the "Kyrie" to the jubilant "Gloria," and the profound "Credo," each track is a masterclass in choral composition. The motets, with their intricate harmonies and profound texts, provide a serene counterpoint to the grandeur of the mass.
Born near Linz in 1824, Bruckner was primarily known for his symphonies, but this album highlights his significant contributions to sacred choral music. It's a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and anyone seeking to explore the deeper, more spiritual side of Bruckner's musical legacy.
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