Customer Reviews

Wojciech Kilar: Angelus; Exodus; Krzesany

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A composer unfamiliar to me until this album, Wojciech Kilar writes some very moving works if these four compositions are any indication. His manipulation of sound, whether instrumental or vocal is unique, though there are strong affinities to the works of Gorecki, Orff, Penderecki and Ligeti. The grand effect is one of pulsating minimalism superimposed on folk-like melodies.

'Krzesany' is a work for orchestra alone and Kilar asks his instrumentalists to push the edges of each instrument's capability. The movement is lush, chordal, and creates an enormous amount of unresolved tension. In 'Angelus, for soprano, mixed choir & orchestra' the chorus chants in a Sprechstimme manner that is most effective in providing a background for the gorgeous rich soprano of Hasmik Papian, an Armenian soprano making a name for herself in the major opera houses of the world in roles such as 'Norma'. The remaining two works, 'Exodus' and 'Victoria' are for chorus and orchestra and are deeply moving.

Antoni Wit conducts the Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra with intensity and élan. This ensemble and this conductor are gradually adding, gratefully, much of the repertoire of the Polish composers. This is a recording that deserves attention. Grady Harp, January 06

I'm a new convert to Kilar's music. I found this CD to have great diversity and I'm enjoying listening to it. It is a good quality recording and the orchestra play well. The interpretation of the different pieces translate well.