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Free Music Notes for Karl Jenkins RequiemFree Music Review: contemporary requiem Hit: 4 StarsAfter establishing a name as a innovative composer of popular music and of commercials, Jenkins has added several traditional works, most notably this requiem and his Mass for Peace. The Requiem is readily accessible with superb variety of effects. Following in the model of Britten's War Requiem, he intercalates Japanese poetry between sections of the mass. There are many historical connections with the English choral system. The melodies are memorable, the scoring varied. Jenkins extends the Dies Irae, breaking into five parts: Dies Irae, Rex tremendae, Confutatis, Lacrimosa, and Pie Jesu. Harmonically, the work has sufficient variety. There is notable variations in dynamics, rhythmic patterns, and tempo changes. There is some melodic extensions between sections; e.g., the opening of the Pie Jesu replicates the motive from the Introit, then compresses it. This opening theme appears in many of the following sections.
Free Music Review: elcetic.. from the sublime to the ridiculous Hit: 2 StarsI am a huge fan of 20th/21st Century classical music and really enjoy Karl Jenkins music on the whole. His Armed Man Mass is stunning and the other work on this CD is beautiful. However, I was remarkably disappointed with this work. There are moments of sheer brilliance, absolute beauty and moments that are almost transcendental. But on the other hand some of the movements are just awful. How he manages intersperse the lovely Haiku settings in amongst movements like the shockingly bad Dies Irae (not just bad for the listener, but also for the poor singers whose voices are forced to sing aggressive music in an awkward area of the voice)escapes me.
If you love Karl Jenkins you will probably buy this, and so you should there are some great sections. But for me, and most people who are familiar with 'real' modern classical music and the great Requiem settings of the past (like Faure, Durufle, Mozart, Requiem, Verdi and Berlioz) this CD works very well as a coaster.
Free Music Review: Paradiso Hit: 4 StarsLet me just say- a masterpiece. Specially the Requiem part of the album I liked a lot: Jenkins' harmonies, novelty of interpretation, and combination of styles. Integration of best elements of classical Requiem and modern composition.
Free Music Review: A further expansion of a talented composer Hit: 5 StarsI guess you could call me a "number one" fan of Karl Jenkins music. I find his music uplifting and soul-stirring. After a few listenings to Requiem, I quickly found so much to enjoy out of the variety of tracks.
For consumers that are only aware of Diamond Music, Jenkins has composed a whole collection of works, five to be exact, that are under the Adiemus title. You must, I repeat, must expand your collection to include some if not all of these titles, particularly Adiemus I, II & IV. These are such emotionally charged works, fashioned with a chorus of female singers and soloists and full orchestra. Do a quick search and you'll learn more about this themed works. But I digress....
Requiem is unique in that the composer uses a full chorus including male voices and a baritone soloist in the short work, "In These Stones..." This is the first time I'm aware that Jenkins embraces the SATB structure. What an exceptional inclusion to his body of works! I've picked out a few favorites including Introit, Dies Irae, and In Paradisum. However, Pie Jesu shines as a gorgeous heart felt work that effortlessly soars between child soloist, soprano soloist and chorus. Guaranteed to bring tears to your eyes. Finally, the short work that closes this CD, "In These Stones Horizons Sing", calls to mind Ralph Vaughn Williams and a touch of Glass. As a singer in many choruses, I found myself itching to bring this short piece to the attention of various choral directors. It conveys such a powerful quality, visions of Celtic settings arise in my mind. If you are a choral singer, I assure you, you will find something to inspire you. Enjoy Requiem and look into Jenkins other works as well. You won't be sorry.
Free Music Review: Karl Jenkins: Requiem - an eclectic requiem for the 21st Centuray Hit: 4 StarsIncorporating elements of World Music (Japanese Haiku), and hints of Arvo Part, Philip Glass and Chill-out Pop, this Requiem Mass for vocal soloists, large choir and full orchestra is a moving, dazzeling masterpiece.
My only reservation about this recording is that, despite being conducted by the composer, the choir and orchestera lack the rythmic intensity and fresh enthusiasm I have heard in a live performance. (Victoria Philharmonic Choral Society)
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