Rachmaninoff: The Divine Liturgy of St John Chrysostom
9/29/2023, 20 Tracks, 1:17:38
Featuring
Tanya Wicks
Peter Scorer
Matthew Best
Corydon Singers
Sergei Rachmaninoff
Did you know?
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Composition History
Rachmaninov composed "The Divine Liturgy of St John Chrysostom" in 1910, five years before his more famous "All-night Vigil Service" (Vespers).
Historical Context
Rachmaninov's "Liturgy" was composed in 1910, just seven years before the Russian Revolution.
Recording & Production
This recording of Rachmaninov's "Liturgy" includes some parts for the priest or deacon, a common practice for concert and recording purposes that often involves omitting much of the Eucharistic prayer.
Compositional Technique
Despite not quoting actual chant, the melodic and harmonic style of Rachmaninov's "Liturgy" is heavily influenced by the aesthetic ideals of Kastalsky, a composer who wrote in 'chant style' without using chant melodies.
Critical Reception
The ecclesiastical authorities did not sanction church performance of Rachmaninov's "Liturgy" due to its "spirit of modernism."
Composer's Artistic Vision
Rachmaninov found great pleasure in composing "The Divine Liturgy," stating he hadn't written anything with such enjoyment in a long time.
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