The Danish National Vocal Ensemble, consisting of 18 professional singers, is known for its strong individual performances in a wide range of music, from early works to demanding contemporary pieces.
Compositional Technique
In Libra, Per Nørgård combines texts by Rudolf Steiner, about love and balance, with extracts from the psalms of David, creating a 'love music' for various vocal and instrumental forces.
Composition History
The work Libra was inspired by Per Nørgård's interest in astrology, with its title referring to the zodiac sign and its musical elements treated with harmonic balance.
Composer Biography
Per Nørgård, born in 1932, is considered Denmark's most original composer from the period after World War II.
Recording & Production
This recording of Libra was arranged with the ensemble in a large circle, using main microphones for soloists and chorale choir, and surround microphones for the 'ethereal' a cappella choir and vibraphones.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Per Nørgård's unique 'infinity series' and rhythmic dynamics based on the Golden Section were inspired by the fractal theories of mathematician Benoît Mandelbrot.
