Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative compositions of Frank Martin with his 1996 album, "Martin: In terra pax & Les quatre éléments." This captivating collection, released under the Chandos label, showcases Martin's mastery of blending sacred texts with deeply moving music, resulting in a work that resonates with both spiritual and emotional depth.
The album is divided into two main sections. The first, "Les quatre éléments," is a four-movement orchestral suite that vividly depicts the elements of earth, water, air, and fire. Each movement is a testament to Martin's ability to translate natural phenomena into rich, expressive musical language.
The second section, "In terra pax," is a choral-orchestral work that sets texts from the Bible and other religious sources. This part is further divided into four sections, each exploring different themes of faith, suffering, and redemption. The work culminates in a powerful and uplifting finale, "Notre Père, qui es aux cieux" (Our Father which art in heaven), leaving the listener with a sense of peace and hope.
Performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra and a stellar cast of vocalists, including Della Jones, Martyn Hill, Judith Howarth, and Roderick Williams, this album is a testament to the collaborative power of exceptional musicians interpreting a profound musical vision. Conducted by Matthias Bamert, the performances are both precise and deeply expressive, bringing Martin's intricate scores to life with remarkable clarity and passion.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 7 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Frank Martin's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a compelling journey through some of his most significant and moving works.
1996 Chandos Records1996 Chandos Records
Tracks
Les quatre éléments: I. La terreFrank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Les quatre éléments: II. L'eauFrank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Les quatre éléments: III. L'airFrank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Les quatre éléments: IV. Le feuFrank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra
In terra pax, Part I: Lorsque l'Agneau rompit le premier sceau (And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part I: Mon Dieu, Mon Dieu (My God, My God)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part I: Malheur au peuple chargé de péchés! (Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part I: Eternel, Dieu de mon salut (O Lord God of my salvation)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part II: Sentinelle, que dis-tu de la nuit? (Watchman, what of the night?)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part II: Mais les ténèbres ne régneront pas toujours (But darkness will not endure forever)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part II: Consolez, consolez mon peuple (Comfort ye, comfort ye my people)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part II: Voici, mon serviteur (Behold, my servant)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part II: Heureux les affligés (Blessed are they that mourn)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part III: Notre Père, qui es aux cieux (Our Father which art in heaven)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
In terra pax, Part IV: Puis je vis un nouveau ciel (And I saw a new heaven and a new earth)Frank Martin, Matthias Bamert, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Della Jones, Judith Howarth, Martyn Hill, Roderick Williams, Stephen Roberts, Brighton Festival Chorus
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