Lux Æterna [Hybrid SACD]

• Main performer: Gents
• Booklet languages: English, Dutch, French, German
• Libretto languages: Latin, English, French
• Time: 85:16
• Release Date: 2005

Review

Maurice Duruflé's Requiem, Op. 9 (1947), is his acknowledged masterpiece and widely admired as one of the most beautiful and moving choral works produced in the twentieth century. It is best known in its orchestral guise, though the version for choir, cello, and organ is performed on this 2005 recording by the Gents and 14 guest sopranos and altos, accompanied by organist Erwin Wiersinga and cellist Quirine Viersen, and conducted by Peter Dijkstra. Since most listeners will primarily consider this double disc for the Requiem, the choice depends on whether one prefers this ensemble's small numbers, intimate singing, and gentle approach, as opposed to other recordings that feature the Requiem in full symphonic glory, with more robust voices and powerful instrumentation. This sensitive performance is enjoyable for its quiet expressiveness and reverent liturgical atmosphere, which is enhanced by the resonant acoustics of Kirche St. Gudula in Rhede, Germany. The second disc's selections are less frequently heard but wonderful choral gems. Duruflé's Messe cum Jubilo and Notre Père, Francis Poulenc's Quatre Petites prières de Saint François d'Assis and Laudes de Saint Antoine de Padoue, and Olivier Messiaen's O Sacrum Convivium are all delightful offerings, sumptuous in harmony and beautifully blended by Dijkstra. Channel's DSD surround sound is superb. ~ Blair Sanderson, All Music Guide

Performances

Composer	Title	Time
Maurice Duruflé	Requiem, for orchestra, organ & chorus; for organ & chorus; for small ensemble, organ & chorus, Op. 9 (3 versions)	41:04
Maurice Duruflé	Notre Père (2 versions), for chorus; for male voices & organ, Op. 14	1:45
Francis Poulenc	Quatre petites prières de Saint François d'Assise, for men's chorus, FP 142	7:39
Maurice Duruflé	Missa "Cum Jubilo", for baritone, baritone chorus, orchestra & organ, Op. 11	21:16
Francis Poulenc	Laudes de Saint Antoine de Padoue (4), for male chorus, FP 172	8:29
Olivier Messiaen	O sacrum convivium!, for voices, I/18	5:03