Nørgård: Libra

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Per Nørgård's "Libra," a neoclassical and avant-garde masterpiece released in 2012. This album features three of Nørgård's most enthralling vocal works, performed by the Danish National Vocal Ensemble under the skilled direction of Stefan Östersjö. With a runtime of 59 minutes, the album is a testament to Nørgård's innovative compositional style, blending intricate vocal arrangements with a rich, textural soundscape.

The album opens with "Libra," a multi-movement work for tenor and chorus, showcasing the talents of tenor Adam Riis and the ensemble. This piece is a journey through various moods and themes, from the gentle "Allegretto, poco rubato" to the powerful "Presto." The chorus and tenor weave together in a complex tapestry of sound, highlighting Nørgård's ability to create depth and nuance.

Following "Libra," the album transitions into "Rèves en pleine lumière," a solo piece that offers a moment of introspection before diving into the five movements of "Kredsløb." This final work is a celebration of spring, with titles like "Forårs-duet" (Spring Duet) and "Forårs-stafet" (Spring Chanson) evoking images of renewal and growth. The ensemble's precise and expressive performances bring these pieces to life, making "Libra" a standout addition to any classical music collection.

Recorded in Denmark and released under the Dacapo SACD label, "Libra" is a must-listen for fans of neoclassical and avant-garde music. The album's intricate compositions and stunning performances make it a standout work in Per Nørgård's impressive body of work.