programme
Sergei Rachmaninov (1873-1943) Vsénoshchnoye bdéniye (Vespers)
performers
Cappella Amsterdam
Daniel Reuss conductor
background
Rachmaninov’s monumental Vespers is one of the most beautiful and impressive a cappella choral works ever composed. Old Russian Orthodox melodies form the foundation, yet the masterpiece did not find its place primarily within the Russian Orthodox liturgy. The dramatic setting, symphonic scope, and great virtuosity have made the work beloved on concert stages worldwide.
The piece opens with Priidité, poklonimsya, in which the choir sings a solemn invitation to gather for the evening service. This is followed by a series of movements, including psalms and hymns, each with its own characteristic atmosphere, ranging from joyful and exultant to introspective and contemplative. Highlights of the work include the sublime Bogoróditse Dévo and Velikoye slavosloviye, which often evoke a sense of majestic grandeur.