Customer Reviews

Orthodox Chants from Russia

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Simply put, this is the most beautiful chant that I have ever heard in my life. Although I am a fan of Gregorian chant and later Western developments (Renaissance-era polyphony, etc.), I was surprised - but in the best of ways! - by some of the stylistic differences between the Optina Putsyn Male Choir or St. Petersburg and, for example, the Benedictine Monks of Santa Domingo (whose "Chant" CDs were quite the rave a number of years ago). In particular, there are several songs on here in which a type of lead vocal is sung by one of the members while the rest continue their chant in the background. It makes for an absolutely stunning combination of vocal styles, as the lead vocal is song monotone! It is beautiful enough to bring tears to your eyes.

As may be expected, the Psalms and elements of the Orthodox liturgy make up several of the 12 chants found on this CD. It should be noted that this CD is not a full liturgy, however, unlike a number of other Orthodox chant CDs, which have featured the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom (for example).

The liner notes are helpful. When lyrics are available, they are translated (the entire CD is sung in Russian); when they are not given (for whatever reason), the song is explained. According to the notes, the Optina Putsyn Male Choir of St. Petersburg is composed of seven men whose musical efforts were blessed by the Orthodox Patriarch of Russian back in 1996. It appears that although they have been performing together for a number of years, this is their first CD this side of the Atlantic (or, depending on where you are at, this side of the Pacific).

If you are a fan of religious music, particularly chant or other forms of contemplative music, this is a great CD to add to your collection. It may be particularly conducive to meditation, prayer and other quiet times.

Russian Orthodox liturgical music is arguably the most sacred & mystical sounding in the Christian tradition. Orthodox music is deeply emotional and yet still dedicated to the glory of God. In general terms, I usually prefer the mixed male/female Russian Orthodox liturgical music. Female choral pieces reflect the exceptional devotion the Orthodox Church has traditionally given to The Holy Mother (Theotokos). This CD, however, is the result of the all-male The Optina Pustyn Male Choir of St. Petersburg.

They do a magnificent job.

This CD is equally engrossing in its highly contemplative sound. Just as you don't need to know Hindi in order to appreciate Mantra, you don't need to know the Slavic tongue--or even be a "true believer"--in order to hear the rich textures of Orthodox Chants from Russia.

Sacred Treasures: Choral Masterworks From Russia
Russian Orthodox Church Songs
Chants de la Liturgie Slavonne
Allegri: Miserere
The Essential Tallis Scholars

After experiencing a Russian Orthodox service at the synod in New York City (home of the Russian Orthodox church outside of Russia), celebrated by the Metropolitan as well as other bishops, I longed for a re-connection to part of my heritage that I knew nothing about. I have listened to quite a few Russian Orthodox CDs since then, but, currently, this is by far my favorite. My Russian Orthodox cousin died this morning from pancreatic cancer. This CD helped to transport me to his chair-side over the last several weeks. I have played it almost constantly. In fact, it is playing as I write. It is stunningly unforgettable.

This is one of my absolute favorite recordings of Slavic orthodox singing. The selection is inspired: one gets the more monophonic znamenny chant, which is closer to the Byzantine style, and the polyphonic Slavic singing which became popular in the 19th century. I have heard dozens of renditions of the Great Litany, the opening prayer of the Orthodox Sunday liturgy, but their version is my favorite. The quality of the recording is also very high. Often orthodox CDs originating in Eastern Europe sound muted with a degree of noise but this one is loud and clear. A must for every collection of orthodox music.

My daughter ordered this item. She is happy with her purchase. Came in a timely manner and as described. Even if you do not meditate this is pleasant to listen to.

Truly one of the best Orthodox Chants CD and my husband enjoy it when we want to get chill out.

The "Chants", an Amazon Verified Purchase, arrived in a very short time, in perfect condition and beautifully performed. The resonance of the recording space definitely added to the lush sound.