Olivier Messiaen: Vingt Regards sur l’enfant-Jésus

Featuring

Kristoffer Nyholm Hyldig
Olivier Messiaen

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Compositional Technique

Messiaen's Vingt Regards sur l'enfant-Jésus is described as a "sonic cathedral" that pushes the boundaries of composition and pianistic interpretation, incorporating complex theological, symbolic, and musicological layers.

Composition History

Olivier Messiaen's two-and-a-half hour piano cycle, Vingt Regards sur l'enfant-Jésus, was written in Paris between March 23 and September 8, 1944, during the German occupation of France.

Performer Biography

Kristoffer Hyldig, one of Denmark's leading pianists, is a founding member of Messiaen Quartet Copenhagen and has performed other major Messiaen works, including Turangalîla with the Royal Danish Orchestra.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Messiaen intended his work to be a "language of mystical love that is multifaceted, powerful and tender; sometimes even terrifying. All with the greatest vividness possible."

Composer's Artistic Vision

Messiaen, a devout Catholic, stated that his conception of sacred music derives from his conviction that God is manifest in all things, allowing for extreme variety in music dealing with theological subjects.

Recording & Production

This recording was made in Vor Frelser's Church, Copenhagen, using DXD audio format (352.8 kHz/32bit) and high-quality DPA microphones.

Interpretation

Pianist Kristoffer Hyldig collaborated with dramaturg Mette Borg to explore the religious mystery at the heart of Messiaen's work, allowing for a deeper, personal understanding despite differing religious backgrounds.