Penderecki: Magnificat & Kadisz

Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative sounds of Krzysztof Penderecki's "Magnificat & Kadisz," a captivating album released on May 5, 2015, under the Naxos label. This extraordinary collection of works showcases Penderecki's mastery of choral and orchestral composition, blending the sacred and the avant-garde into a hauntingly beautiful experience.

The album features two significant works: the "Magnificat," a setting of the biblical canticle commissioned for the 1,200th anniversary of Salzburg Cathedral, and "Kadisz," a poignant piece written to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the end of the Jewish ghetto in Łódź. Penderecki's distinctive style, characterized by its innovative use of tone clusters, slithering violins, and resounding diatonic chords, is on full display here.

Performed by the renowned Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir under the direction of Antoni Wit, this album is a testament to Penderecki's enduring influence in the world of contemporary classical music. The "Magnificat" and "Kadisz" are both powerful and moving works, each offering a unique exploration of faith, memory, and the human condition.

With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a journey through the depths of Penderecki's musical genius. From the soaring choral passages to the haunting orchestral interludes, "Magnificat & Kadisz" is an album that demands to be heard and felt. Whether you are a longtime fan of Penderecki's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.