Leos Janacek: Glagolitic Mass

Not only does this collection of orchestral works by Janácek follow two highly praised volumes which featured such great soloists as Jean-Efflam Bavouzet and James Ehnes, but it also presents one of the composer’s most monumental works – supported by the renowned organist Thomas Trotter – along with three contrasting shorter pieces.

The Glagolitic Mass is considered Janácek’s finest non-operatic work. It was premiered a year after the Sinfonietta – see Volume 1 (CHSA 5142) – to critical acclaim. Set within a frame of purely orchestral movements, this impressive piece makes full use of the orchestra and chorus, with virtuosic solo parts for tenor and soprano, as well as organ. Throughout, the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and its new Chief Conductor, Edward Gardner, authoritatively demonstrate their deep empathy with the repertoire.

The album is completed by three highly diverse, yet characteristic works: the mournful Adagio for orchestra, the Slavonic Otce náš, and the deeply personal Zdrávas Maria.