Requiem For My Friend - Preisner / Rewakowicz, Kasprzyk, Sinfonia Varsovia, et al
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Free Music Notes for Requiem For My Friend - Preisner / Rewakowicz, Kasprzyk, Sinfonia Varsovia, et al
Free Music Review: A Powerful, Mystical Experience
Hit: 5 Stars
This evocative composition, as it slowly unfolds, takes the listener on an emotional and spiritual journey. Whether or not you understand all of the segments of the traditional Latin Requiem text, plus the additional Greek and Polish lyrics, the piece is powerful to both the inexperienced and highly discerning listener. Listeners will observe the work to be in two distinct parts with contrasting vocal and orchestral forces; however, concept, thematic material, and composition style help to unify this disparate pairing of forces.
The first part features a highly unusual adult male SATB quartet, soprano soloist, string quartet, organ, and percussion.
The second part's vocal forces include an SATB choir, soprano and countertenor soloists, plus an additional voice sung on this recording by a youth. The orchestral forces of the second part include the large symphonic forces of a film score, and some unusual instruments for a Requiem including alto saxophone and cimbalom.
One of the features that make this recording particularly successful is the acoustics of the recording locations: the two utilized for this recording are extremely rich with reverberation. This reverberation sustains the long musical lines and fills the piece to accommodate the slowly unfolding harmonic progressions. Architecturally, the work's construction is solid, with structural pillars unifying the first and second parts, with a definite roadmap to take the listener on an emotional journey.
I am delighted to hear this recording before conducting its American premiere at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 5, 2006 at First Presbyterian Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana. For additional information, call (260)426-7421 ext. 24.
Free Music Review: Stunning, inspiring, restorative
Hit: 5 Stars
This is a major work. If he were not so well known as a film composer, on the one hand, this work would bring him glory. But film composers rarely get respect in the classical world, even when crossing over.) I think Preisner easily ranks with Gorecki and Paart. No question. He writes in the voice of our era. On the other hand, if he wasn't so well respected in the film world, I doubt he could have gotten recorded here. To all that has been said by others here, I would only draw your attention to the "Lacrimosa." Perhaps the version in Part Two, Life: Apocalypse: Lacrimosa-Day Of Tears is the one that would appeal to the most people (although I prefer the version in Part One of the disk). If you're wanting surcease from events "apocalyptic" - either personally or nationally (a la 9/11) - listening to this can be like words to a friend, a voice from beyond (or to the Beyond)... It is the apotheosis of grief. Let the majestic chords wash over you like the ocean, cleansing and diminishing all obstacles with its power. An uncanny experience; and so highly recommended.Free Music Review: definitely worth the wait
Hit: 5 Stars
I first heard of Zbigniew Preisner and "Requiem for my friend" in a music magazine in 1998 and have anxiously awaited the US release of this cd. After hearing one sample selection, I knew I had to have this music. I wondered, "Would the rest of the music be as incredible?" The answer was a definite yes! Just by listening, you can almost sense the bond that must have existed between Preisner and director Krzysztof Kieslowski to whom "Requiem" is dedicated. Personally I can only compare this to a few other twentieth century composers I'm familiar with so far: Part's "De Profundis" and "Litany", Gorecki's "Symphony No. 3", Tavener, etc. Preisner seems to go even beyond. This cd must be listened to and felt, not just played. Every time, I am more deeply affected. One can hope that the composer continues the vision he conceived along with Kieslowski and Piesiewicz. Thank you, Zbigniew Preisner. It was worth the wait.Free Music Review: beautiful and moving cd
Hit: 5 Stars
This music is so beautiful and heartbreaking. A must for those who think music should be about emotions and feelings first, before the other theoretical stuff. Yes, his music reminds me alot of Part and and Gorecki, but Im sure there are differences. Arent Part and Gorecki stuff have their roots in Eastern European musical tradition? (Im not a music theory or history expert) So I really loathe western idea of originality. Since ideas are built upon from previous innovations and such, i dont think originality should be the litmus test. Look at Piccaso (and I like Picasso), the style that he became well known for is based on African art. Yet people think the he is the original. Yes, he is able to borrow ideas from African art and made it his own style. I think Preisner does that and he does it very well.Dont let music theories and school of thoughts get in the way of your heart and souls ability to enjoy and feel the music.
I love the cd.
Free Music Review: A fitting Kieslowski memorial
Hit: 5 Stars
In "The Double Life of Veronique", there is a haunting concerto for soprano, chorus and orchestra. I had always intended to look into getting more of Preisner's work, but it was only during a browse that I came across the "Requiem for my friend" in a department store in Sydney.It's a marvellous piece of music, and I especially enjoyed the "Lachrymosa" and the "Kai Kairos", as well as the final "Prayer"
What a pity that Kieslowski and Preisner never got to realize their dream of "a series of musical performances to be developed in various interesting places around the world".
That really would have been something.