Lang: The Little Match Girl Passion

David Lang's "The Little Match Girl Passion" is a profound and evocative choral work that masterfully blends the haunting tale of Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Match Girl" with the spiritual depth of Johann Sebastian Bach's "St. Matthew Passion." Composed in 2007 and released in 2009 under the Harmonia Mundi label, this album is a testament to Lang's unique ability to create poignant and deeply moving music.

The album features 19 tracks, each meticulously crafted to capture the essence of Andersen's story and the religious and moral parallels it draws. Lang's composition is not just a retelling but a profound exploration of suffering and redemption, elevated by his evocative and imaginative musical style. The work is performed by the Theatre of Voices, conducted by Paul Hillier, and showcases Lang's signature spiky and daring musical language, which has made him a prominent figure in the contemporary classical music scene.

"The Little Match Girl Passion" is a significant work in Lang's repertoire, co-commissioned by Carnegie Hall and the Perth Theater and Concert Hall. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2008 and was a 2010 Grammy Awards Winner, highlighting its critical acclaim and artistic merit. The album's free jazz influences and choral arrangements create a unique and captivating listening experience, making it a standout piece in David Lang's discography. With a duration of one hour and five minutes, this album is a compelling journey through the intersection of storytelling, spirituality, and contemporary music.