Immerse yourself in the ethereal and transcendent world of Morten Lauridsen's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, released on March 1, 2005, under the Hyperion label. Spanning a total of 66 minutes, this collection showcases Lauridsen's unparalleled ability to blend sacred and secular themes into a harmonious tapestry of sound.
The album opens with "Lux Aeterna," a five-movement work that draws inspiration from Latin liturgical texts, offering a profound exploration of light, faith, and redemption. Following this, the "Madrigali: Six 'Fire Songs' on Italian Renaissance Poems" series brings a passionate and vivid interpretation of Renaissance poetry, set to Lauridsen's signature lush and expressive choral writing.
The album also includes the beloved "O Magnum Mysterium," a piece that has become a staple in choral repertoire worldwide, alongside other notable works such as "Ave Maria" and "Ubi Caritas." Morten Lauridsen's compositions are renowned for their rich harmonies, evocative melodies, and deep spiritual resonance, making this album a treasure trove for both new and seasoned choral music enthusiasts.