In Celebration of the Human Voice - The Essential Musical Instrument

Swedish Choral Music

Sweden has a long tradition of professional and amateur choir singing. A large percentage of the Swedes sing in amateur choirs in various styles. The choirs of Sweden are among the best in the world, with the Radio Choir, owned by Sveriges Radio (Swedish public radio) being one of the world's top professional classical choirs. Lunds StudentsÃ¥ngfÃ¶rening (LSS) and Orphei DrÃ¤ngar (OD) are two world class male choirs singing both in Swedish and other languages. The world famous choir leader Eric Ericsson started his career as chief conductor of OD in the 1950s.

Displaying 1-37 of 37 items.

Allmanna Sangen : Resonanser

Review: The Swedish choral tradition enjoys a very high reputation, with music lovers often claiming to be able to recognize a uniquely Swedish choral sound. Exactly what this sound consists of is difficult to pinpoint, but often mentioned are keywords such as melancholy, the Scandinavian countryside, folk music and traditional ballads. The selection of works on this disc exemplifies all of these, and the performance of them has been entrusted to one of the choirs that have shaped Swedish choral music: Allmaanna Sangen, an Uppsala student choir with a history going back for more than 175 years. The choir's position in Swedish cultural life was demonstrated in 2005 by an invitation to sing at the Nobel Banquet. That performance was televised throughout the world, and in fact included three of the works on this disc - Biegga Luothe, Glaspolskan and Byss-Kalles slangpolska. Great traditions notwithstanding, this disc offers a new perspective on its subject, as the choir brings out new resonances in the often well-known music. A collaboration with Swedish jazz pianist Anders Widmark lends unusual colours to settings of ancient folk chorales (I Himmelen) and traditional harvest songs (Slattervisa), as well as to classics from the treasure of Swedish choral music such as Stenhammar's Three Choral Songs and Alfven's Evening. Both Allmanna Sangen and Anders Widmark have made a number of successful recordings, and now that they join forces for the first time, it is an occasion not to be missed.

Songlist: Biegga Luothe, Ljusfalten, I Himmelen, Glaspolskan, Slangpolska Efter Byss-Kalle, September, I Seraillets Have, Havde Jeg, O Havde Jeg en Datterson, o Ja!, Kung Liljekonvalje, Slattervisa Efter Knis Karl, En Midsommarnattsdrom, Under Ronn Och Syren, Im Herbst, Med En Barnbon Pa Sin Mun, Brollopsvisa Efter Kirsten Braten Berg

Eric Ericson Chamber Choir : A Cradle Song

Review: The 28-strong mixed-voice, much-awarded Eric Ericson Chamber Choir, founded by Eric in 1945, has continually searched out new music and maintained a central position on the Swedish and international music scene. This and their pure "Nordic" sound has made them the ideal ensemble for several generations of Swedish composers, in this case Sven-David Sandstrom, whose groundbreaking 1978 piece "A Cradle Song/The Tyger" is presented here. There are 6 movements in this eclectic, spiritual work, "Hear My Prayer, O Lord," "April and Silence," "Etude No. 4 as in E Minor" (based on a strange, moody secular poem by Tobias Berggren), the title song, with text by William Blake, "A New Heaven and A New Earth," and "Agnus Dei." The extensive liner notes, in Swedish and English, have all the lyrics, and information about the composers and their sources. Breathtaking and unique material from the EECC.

Songlist: Hear My Prayer, O Lord, April and Silence, Etude No 4 as in E Minor, A Cradle Song - The Tyger, A New Heaven and A New Earth, Agnus Dei

Eric Ericson Chamber Choir : Eric Ericson Chamber Choir

Review: The venerable, renowned 28 mixed-voice EECC brings us a collection of 6 eclectic pieces by avant-garde, contemporary Swedish composers Jan Sandstrom, Anders Hillborg, Anders Eliasson, Thomas Jennefelt and Sven David Sandstrom. Jan Sandstrom's Two Choral Poems is based on words by Harry Martinson, Hillborg's surreal, etheric piece (with an undecipherable, upside-down name) has no words, Elisson's "Breathing Room" is a fascinating, dissonant vocal smorgasbord, Jennefelt's powerful "O Domine" dramatically explores attitudes to death before becoming tranquil and reflective. And finally, Sven Sandstrom's "Etude No. 4, as in E minor" is based on a melancholy poem by Tobias Berggren that uses the waning of summer as a metaphor for similar changes in humankind. A strong, surprising, cutting edge collection from one of Europe's most versatile and innovative chamber choirs.

Songlist: Ingvar Lidholm - De Profundis, Tomas Jennefelt - Villarosa Sarialdi, Sven-David Sandstrom - Ave Maria, Jorgen Jersild - Min Yndlingdal, Bo Holten - Regn og ruskog Rosenbusk, Thorkell Sigurbjornsson - Lofsongur Engla, Knut Nystedt - O Crux, Einojuhani Rautavaara - Die Erste Elegie

Eric Ericson Chamber Choir : Swedish Choral Music - Fran, Berg, Till, Back

Review: The new musical ideas emerging during the thirties and forties in the Church of Sweden came as a reaction against romantic ideals and dreamlike sound pictures. The focus of attention now turned to earlier music. Authentic performance became de rigeur, and the New Objectivity soon beccame both art form and life-style. The music which resulted seems today amazingly fresh and timeless. Eric Ericson directs his own choir in performances of choral compositions from Gottfrid Berg to Sven-Erik Back, many of which he premiered. We hear Rolf Stenholm at the 1949 organ of the Oscar Church, Stockholm.

Songlist: Three Latin Hymns: Veni creator spiritus, Three Latin Hymns: Miserere, Three Latin Hymns: Ave Maria, Huru ljuvliga aro icke dina boningar, Lar oss betanka huru fa vara dagar aro, Kyrie, Johannes sag sa klar en syn, De som med tarar sa, Se, sasom en handsbredd (Motett), Om I vanden om och aren stilla (Motett), Det brinner pa en o som heter jorden (Koral), Jag kanner dig i noden (Koral), Den stund ar vard att prisa, Ty sa alskade Gud varlden, Som sadden fornimmer Guds valbehag, Ur Adventsbon, Lov vare dig, o Jesu Krist (Koralpartita), Toccata a-moll, Psalmus vespertinus, Fantasia ostinata

Eric Ericson Chamber Choir : Swedish Contemporary Vocal Music Vol 3

Songlist: Jan Sandsrom - Tva korpoem: Anrop (Harry Martinson), Jan Sandsrom - Tva japanska landskap (Harry Martinson), Anders Hillborg -, Anders Eliasson - Breathing Room (Tomas Transtromer), Thomas Jennefelt - O, Domine, Sven David Ssanstrom - Eytd Nr 4 som iE-moll (Tobias Berggren)

Eric Ericson Chamber Choir : Treasures

Review: Previously unpublished recordings. Nominated for Swedish Grammy Award. Two poems with lyrics by Osten Sjostrand for mixed choir and Gustav Mahler's devout 16-tone polyphonic Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen. Daniel-Lesurs seven-invest Le Cantique des Cantiques shows Eric's interest in and connection to the French idiom. In Arnold Schoenberg's powerful Friede auf Erden for eight-voice mixed choir also participates Eric Ericson's other favorites Radio Choir and the School of Music Chamber Choir.

Songlist: St. Godric's Hymn, I mon waxe wod, Lenten is come, The long night, Yif ic of love can, Carol, Ye that pasen, A death, Tva dikter: FÃ¶rvandlignar i vintervatten, Tva dikter: Metamorfoser vid Siljan, ch bin der Welt abhanden gekommen, Den enda stunden, Dialogue, La voix du bien-aime, Le songe, Le roi Salomon, Le jardin clos, La Sulamite, Epithalame, Friede auf Erden

Eric Ericson Chamber Choir / Swedish Radio Choir : Swedish Contemporary Vocal Music Vol 1

Review: Eric Ericson presents contemporary Swedish choral music on a CD of which a noted reviewer wrote: "It's almost too good! Two of our foremost 20th century composers are each represented by their five foremost compositions, performed by our best choir and our foremost choral conductor - and, moreover, with a quality of sound engineering both bright and beautiful."

Songlist: Laudi (Lidholm), Canto LXXXI, ...a riveder le stelle, Canzone 126 di Francesco Petrarca Op. 6 (Werle), Trees

Eric Ericson Chamber Choir / Swedish Radio Choir : Swedish Contemporary Vocal Music Vol 2

Review: Texture and dynamics are among Eric Ericson's main tools for this Volume 2 of contemporary Swedish choral music. Sven-Erik Back, Lars Edlund, Miklos Maros and Arne Mellnas are presented - that is to say, some of our most eminent composers, represented by works of which several are classics already. "A superb presentation of the current high standard of Swedish choral music" was one reviewer's verdict.

Songlist: Natten ar framskriden (Back), Jesus tank pa mig, Morkret skall skilja, Gloria (Edlund), Elegi, Nenia, Succsim (Mellnas), Dream, Turba (Maros)

Lund University Male Choir : Lund Sjunger in Varen

Review: Founded in 1831 and one of Sweden's oldest and most respected all-male choirs, Lund's Student Choral Society sounds (and looks, from the photo on the cover of the singers in their uniforms and white caps) like a group you would see in concert in the early 19th century. With its roots in academia and the romantic movement in literature and art, passionate, dramatic Nordic men's choral singing has not lost any of its power. There's not really a weak cut here, but we'll tap Otto Lindblad's "Langtan till landet," "Ur Ossians dunkla sagovarld" and "Angbatssang," Jacob Josephson's rousing "Varsang," Herman Palm's nostalgic "Under ronn och syren," Henrik Moller's "Island," Joseph Hedar's stirring "Lundagard" and Axel Melander's gentle "Karlekens visa" as favorites. This music from 19th century romantic composers, sung by an all-male choir from that era, is like stepping into a vocal time machine. "Sjunger in Varen" is a rare treat, authentic sounds from the past that can still move and stir us today.

Songlist: Langtan till landet, Majsang, Glad sasom fageln, Till skogs en liten fagel flog, Folkvisa fran Gotland, Serenad, Varsang, Under ronn och stren, Studentsangen, Angbatssang, Orfeus sjong, Ur Ossians dunkla sagovarld, Sangfaglarne, Minnets tempelsang, Island, Im Herbst, Lundagard, Regnvisan, Karlekens visa, En Fjallfard, op. 6

Lund University Male Choir : Nordic Romance - Songs For Male Voices

Review: Lund's Student Choral Society dates its origin from 1831 and is now one of Sweden's oldest choirs, directed since 1972 by the choir's artistic director, Folke Bohlin. Men's choral singing in the Nordic countries, like the romantic movement in art and literature, is a child of the early 19th century and has its roots in academic life. Thus it is no accident that these 20 songs are divided into the groups "Songs About Song," "Historical Romanticism," "Scenes from Peasant Life," "Nature and the Heart" and "Love Portraits." Particularly strong are Edvard Grieg's "Sangerhilsen" and "Min dejligste tanke," Jean Sibelius' "Venematka," Friedrich Reissiger's rousing "Olav Trygvason," Peter Heise's "Dans! ropte felen" and "I skoven," August Soderman's "Ett bondbrollop" and "O jeg vil ha'e mig en hjertenskjaer," Peter Lange-Muller's "Serenade," and Sten Broman's "Dolly." All in Swedish, extensive liner notes give info about the words, music and history. "Nordic Romance" is powerful, moving music from another culture and time.

Songlist: Sangerhilsen, Venematka, Tonen, Olav Trygvason, Jutta kommer till Folkungarna, Brudefaerd en I hardanger, "Dans!" ropte felen, Ett bondbrollop, Aftenstemning, Serenade, Rakastava, Vitt natt, Min dejligste tanke, O jeg vil ha'e mig en hjertenskjaer, Dolly, Stamma blod

Orphei Drangar : Caprices with OD - Ericson/Sund

Review: In the early sixties the decade was young and people were enthusiastic about anything new. Sweden's Orphei Drangar (OD), an all male choir founded in 1853 changed the formalities of concerts, talking to the audience, allowing laughter and introducing the idea of the "Caprice" in 1962. "Caprice" means "whim" or idea, and it is intended to suggest what is improvised and playful in concerts. The general public longed for such entertainment. Things have changed radically since then, but the basic ideas, surprises, playfulness and high seriousness, craziness but with a requirement of musical quality. "Certainly the lads go astray at times," but nothing ventured, nothing gained. This CD is a "best of" these Caprice concerts, from 1964 to 1969. Unannounced guest artists were a fundamental idea. These included Sven-Bertil Taube, a small ensemble from the choir called the Olsson Quintet made a celebrated debut. Sten-Gunnar Hellstrom presented his condensed version of Swedish musical history, composer Sten Broman was released in his purple tux, and talked for a quarter of an hour about 2 songs with a duration of 3 minutes. There are 22 songs, ending with G. Wennerberg's "Slut Godnatt," an amorous lover's "Wake Up" serenade (to make sure she was not sleeping, leaving him to sing love songs uselessly to himself). All live, in Swedish and in some English, with some light accompaniment and quite a bit of audience laughter. We wish we could understand some of the jokes, but some bits, like "Dolly," "Embraceable You," "Domardansen" and "Beatlespassion" give us a pretty good idea of what's going on. Interesting concept, with some good music and funny stuff.

Songlist: "Ja, jag Kommer" (Hor I Orphei Drangar), Skargardsfrun (E. Taube . sang: Sven Bertil Taube), Kondenserade visor (S-G Hellstrom- Mossebacke Monarki sang: Sten-Gunnar Hellstrom), Till Osterland (Trad., arr. K-A. Frisk), Det stod en lind (Trad., arr. K-A Frisk), Tal (Speech) Sten Broman, Dolly (S. Broman - Falstaaff, fakir), Serenad en ovanligt kall mars samma lordag som det blev om slag I vadret (E.M. Yrgard sang: Erik Mattias Yrgard), Ibrollopsgarden (A. Soderman), Bandura (Trad., arr J.Johansson piano: Jan Johansson. Bas: Georg Riedel), Embraceable You (G. & I. Gershwin- B. Barlach sang: Sonya Hedenbratt), Domaredansen (Trad., arr O. Olsson - A. Linder. Sang: A. Linder, sang: Anders Linder), M'appari (F.v. Flowtow sang: Staffan Hjorth. Piano Sture Lunden), Beatlepassion (Beatles, arr. K-A. Frisk sang: Dorothy Irving, Christer Solen, Bengt Rundgren), Eko-visa (O. di Lasso. Text och bearbetning: K-A. Frisk Kammarkoren; Kvintetten Olsson; OD), Man Is For The Woman Made (H. Purcell - John Runge's collection sang: Christer Bladin Gitarr: Adam Taube), Dane liksom askan, systrar (J.H. Stunz - J.Jolin. Kammarkorens damer), Plocka vill jag skogsviol (Trad. - A.Slotte.), Come Sunday (Duke Ellington sang: Alice Babs piano: Ake Leven), "Extranummer" (sang: Alice Babs), Madrigal (Adam de la Halle - Schreiber, overs Ralf), Grona sma applen, Slut - Godnatt (G. Wennerberg)

Orphei Drangar : Caprices with OD Vol 1 - Eric Ericson

Review: More silliness from Sweden's all-male choir Orphei Drangar (OD), yearly live concerts that were founded in 1962, the ones here taking place from 1987 to 1990, that featured "Caprices," or whims and improvisations in concerts (see review for "Capricer Med OD, Del 1964-69"). 18 songs, some in Swedish, some in English; some favorites are "Mozart's Pianokonsert nr 21," "Bluesette," "Teach Me Tiger," "Sudda, sudda," "Yuppie Rap," "At The Hop/Rock Around the Clock" and "I Could Have Danced All Night." OK, sometimes we wish we could understand Swedish and see what's happening when the audience cracks up, but there's still a lot to get a laugh from and enjoy here.

Songlist: Sveriges Flaggstang, Joakim Uti Babylon, Vem Kan Segla/Fjariln Vingad, Kolm Mul Oli Kaunist Sona, Mozarts Pianokonsert Nr 21 (med variationer), Stadshotellet, Bluesette, Balladen Om Herr Rosenbloms Speleman, Teach Me Tiger, Sudda, Sudda, Yuppie-Rap, La Vie En Rose, Kulldansen, At The Hop/Rock Around The Clock, Iltapilvia, Bedragarens Vag, Carola, I Could Have Danced All Night

Orphei Drangar : Caprices with OD Vol 2

Review: The 1960s saw the beginning of the "Caprice," an annual event that soon gained great popularity. It was a wholly new concert form in Sweden: a mixture of musical styles, everything from serious classical music to jazz and folk music, and as time went on it became more and more of a scenic production with dramatizations, choreography and slapstick humor. An important ingredient was the appearance of one or more mystery guest artists. Over the years, many of Sweden's foremost artists within various genres ahve appeared to suprise the audience, and often have the opportunity to present themselves form a new angle. The development of the Caprice would hardly have been possible without the special conditions that Orphei Drangar has to offer: Eric Ericson's musical versatility and curiosity, not to mention his wide-ranging contacts within Swedish artistic circles; Robert Sund's skill as an arranger, of which this CD provides ample evidence; and his brother Hakan's artistry at the piano, or an equally high calibre in classical music and in jazz.

Songlist: There's no business, White Christmas, Broderna Sund of Music - Variationer over Csardas, Fabodpsalm, Smaka syltan, pastorn, Midzjtnatzskin radznjeff, Rysk visa, Yngve Gamlins sprakkurs, Naturljud i Hagaparken, Vila vid denna kalla, Fjariln vingad syns pa Haga, Gubben ar gammal, Hagakoren, Mood Indigo, Fly me to the moon, The drunken sailor, Hor I O / Nu ar det jul, Det ar en ros utsprungen, O helga natt, Chopin a la suedoise

Orphei Drangar : Caprices with OD Vol 3

Review: Not only is Orphei Drangar one of the oldest and best men's choirs in the world, but it is a true gathering of individualists, almost all of whom have amde of will make their mark in professions other than music. Given this urge to express themselves as individuals, their popular pre-CHristmas concerts, known locally as "caprices," are not just a collective letting down of hair," but a much-appreciated opportunity for displaying all sorts of individual talents not usually required of choristers -- whether this be writing musical sketches, singing in some hitherto undiscovered register, representing half of a theatrical horse and etceteras. Add to this Eric Ericson, the world's greatest choral conductor -- who looked after Orphei Drangar for forty years because he enjoyed them so much -- and the mixture is potent, not to say explosive. Like all the greatest musicians Eric Ericson has that well-developed sense of humor that comes from recognizing that one has been entrusted with a very rare gift. Together, Eric Ericson and Orphei Drangar let their hair down in grand style. Indeed they elevate the very concept of "letting one's hair down" into something like an art form.

Songlist: Hor I Orphei Drangar / Kalinka, Pa faltet stod en liten bjork, Balladen om Eugen Cork, Livet ar ett helvete, Halsa dom dar hemma, Fragancia, Julgranen, Nu har jag fatt den jag vill ha, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Stormy Weather, True Love, Norgehistoria, Engelska flottan, Kivikspolka, Poor Lonesome Cowboy, Feeling Too Good Blues, Hark, Ye Sons if Orpheus, Maybe It«s Because I'm a Londoner, Jag ser pa dina ogon / 5000 man, Viljasangen, Lat oss liksom svalorna, Operetten ar dod

Orphei Drangar : Caprices with OD Vol 4

Review: This is the fourth volume of a series of discs documenting the Caprices -- the ever popular pre-Christmas entertainments that Orphei Drangar started in 1962. By 1982, the Caprices had found the form that most people associate with them today: one or more guest artists -- singers, musicians, comedians, actors or actresses -- their names a well-kept secret until the opening night; a theme for the performance providing opportunities for musical and theatrical pranks, and alarming leaps between different moods and styles.

Songlist: Smideskoren ur Trubaduren, Gremlins aria ur Eugen Onegin, Diana, If Love's a Sweet Passion, Tiger Rag, Gregoriansk Ja, jag kommer, En manskenspromenad, Kom i min famn, Humanifestet, Till gladjens varn och ara, symfoni i fyra satser, Kinesisk Hor, I Orphei Drangar, Man jiang hong, Vantat haver jag, Nu ar det gott att leva, Cadillac, Jag hatar man ur Kiss me Kate, She's Leaving Home, Danga, Two Sleepy People, Send In The Clowns, Sophisticated Lady

Orphei Drangar : Christmas Music

Review: The world renowned Orphei Drangar, treats us to a variety of Christmas songs from around the world, including Scandinavia, Germany, England and France. Selections include Gustaf Nordqvist's sweet lullaby "Jul, jul stralande jul," "Ave Maria" by Franz Biebl and "Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen." Conducted by Robert Sund, this wonderful choir is joined by soprano Christina Hogman and baritone Peter Mattei with Bengt Forsberg on organ. This is a simply beautiful recording.

Songlist: Hosiana, Nar det lider mot jul, Jul, jul, stralande jul, Bereden vag for herran, Psalm 24, Betlehems stjarna, Forunderligt at sige, Giv mig ej glans, Op. 1 No. 4, Hodie Christus natus est, Ave Maria, Ave Maria, Die Konige, Stille Nacht, Est ist ein Ros' entsprungen, Joy to the World, O Come, all ye Faithful, How far is it to Bethlehem?, Anonymous: Ding dong! Merrily on High, Anonymous: Coventry Carol, Anonymous: A la nanita nana, Cantique de Noel, Anonymous: La Marche des rois, Anonymous: Quelle est cette odeur agrable?

Orphei Drangar : Christmas Songs

Review: Formed in 1853, the choir Orphei Drangar (OD) has constantly striven to discover and develop new directions for the male-voice choir, while not neglecting its splendid traditions. The first OD disc recorded together with the choir's new artistic director, the celebrated choral conductor Cecilia Rydinger Alin, is no exception. Described by Choir & Organ (UK) as 'a tremendous choir, with superb technique and an immense, expressive range', OD gives proof of its versatility in a highly varied program which still manages to stay within the theme of Christmas: original settings and new arrangements of Swedish folk songs and Christmas classics, English carols and Broadway songs - with Stille Nacht, a Russian hymn in praise of the Holy Virgin, and Eric Whitacre's widely admired Lux aurumque added for good measure. Supplying even more nuances to the palette is the choir's guest artist, the young Swedish soprano Ida Falk Winland, as well as a brass ensemble, supporting choir and soloist in parts of the program.

Songlist: Koppangen, Forunderligt at sige, Jul, jul, stralande jul, Hosiannah!, Madonnans vaggvisa, Vittskovlevisan, Staffansvisa fran Orust, Hodie Christus natus est, He Shall Feed His Flock, Lux aurumque, Stille Nacht, Dostoyno yest, Es ist ein Ros entsprungen, Joy to the World, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas To You), Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day

Orphei Drangar : Diamonds

Review: The popularity of the male-voice choir has dwindled during the past century. More common in the Romantic era, repertoire written specifically for men's choruses is significantly less as well. On the CD Diamonds, Orphei Drangar, led by Robert Sund and Folke Alin, sings 20th century a cappella pieces written specifically for male choir. The pieces chosen are certainly gems in the repertoire. Many are by French composers such as Francis Poulenc, Darius Milhaud and Camille Saint-Saens, who's Saltarelle is quite fun. The group reaches far to the east in Michio Mamiya's "Composition for Chorus No.6" which is based on Japanese folk music. The Anders Hillborg piece, was originally written for a mixed choir, but was commissioned to write a version for Eric Ericcson and the Orphei Dranger. This phenomenal group sparkles on this recording.

Songlist: Quatre Petites De St. Francois d'Assise, Psaume 121, Gryningsvind, Muistse mere laulud, Iltapilvia, Saltarelle, Traumlicht, Tarantella, Composition for Chorus, Slovenska piesen, Zornicka, Bonus Track

Orphei Drangar : Highlights

Review: This disc presents an international selection of music from Orphei Drangar's concert repertoire as well as two opera choruses in collaboration with the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra. Folk songs from Sweden open the recording followed by many twentieth century works for men's voice chorus. From Eastern Europe there are "Four Old Folk Songs" by Bela Bartok and two of "The Songs of Hamlet" by Estonian composer Veijo Tormis. From America, "A Stopwatch" by Samuel Barber captures a scene from the Spanish Civil War in which he and poet Stephen Spender volunteered. Two of the most beloved opera choruses end the program: the chorus of Gypsy's (Anvil Chorus) from Verdi's Il Trovatore and the chorus of Soldiers from Gounod's Faust. This inspired recording of Highlights comes from the choir's work with the incomparable Eric Ericson.

Songlist: Hej dunkom, Uti voar hage, Pa fjallet i sol, Ett bondbrollop: 4 I brollopsgarden, Kung Liljekonvalje, Four Old Hungarian Songs, The Songs of Hamlet, Three Slovakian Folksongs, Wir zogen in das Feld, Traumlicht, An das meer, A Stopwatch, Il brivido, Psaume 121, Saltarelle, Il trovatore: Coro di zingari -, Faust: Choeur des soldats

Orphei Drangar : Schubert for Male Choruses

Review: Of the hundreds of songs written by Franz Schubert, those for solo voice are best known today. He also wrote over one hundred songs for men's choir. Occasionally, they were performed by quartets in private settings and a few of them were published during Schubert's lifetime. But it was not until nearly forty years after his death that people began to realize that this music was out there. In Vienna in 1866 a volume of his choruses was published by Johann Herbeck, who was a champion of Schubert's unknown music. These songs vary in style from piano or string accompaniment to a cappella. Occasionally, there is a soloist, as in "Standchen," for male choir, alto solo and piano. For this recording Orphei Drangar, conducted by Robert Sund is joined by alto Malena Ernman, tenor Jonas Degerfeldt, pianist Folke Alin and the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. The always brilliant OD sings these rarely performed works with beauty and grace.

Songlist: Nachtgesang, Die Nacht, Der Gondelfahrer, Sehnsucht, Im Gegenwartigen Vergangenes, Liebe, Standchen, Grab und Mond, Der 23 Psalm, Die einsiedelei, Nachthelle, Trinklied ist der Schritt der Zeit, Geist der Liebe, Gesang der Geister uber

Orphei Drangar : Varen ar Kommen

Review: A fine recording from this acclaimed male choir as directed by Robert Sund. Mostly sung a cappella there are thirty traditional Swedish songs that celebrate Spring and Summer.

Songlist: Varsang, Lindblad, Majsang, Marsch, Valkommen Till Varen, Varberg, Varluft, Madrigal, Serenad, Kristallen Den Fina, Gute Nacht, Till Osterland, Nu Har Jag Fatt Den Jag Vill Ha, Under Ronn Och Syren, Dofta Dofta Vit Syren, Kung Liljekonvalje, Vill Du Komma Med Mig, Regnvisan, Vals I Valparaiso, Fragancia, Nu Ar Det Gott Att Leva, Aftenstemning, Guldsmed, Juninat, Jeg Lagde Mig Saa Sildig, Pa Fjallet I sol, En Sommarafton

Simon Phipps Vokalensemble : Britten - Sacred and Profane

Review: In its first CD-release, the Simon Phipps Vocal ensemble performs music written entirely by the greatest English 20:th century composer, Benjamin Britten. This is a tribute to the composer whose music influenced Simon Phipps already at an early age; his father was Britten's agent. Britten's immensely rich and varied choral production is reflected on this CD that spans from beauty to drama. The CD contains some of the composer's most acknowledged compositions like A Hymn to the Virgin, Five Flower Songs and Hymn to Saint Cecilia, as well as the great suit Sacred and Profane with its vibrating vocals and racy medieval lyrics. It also contains the vocally challenging suit Choral Dances from the opera Gloriana. Enjoy Britten's music performed by Simon Phipps' excellent Vocal ensemble on this edition of Benjamin Britten's choral music.

Songlist: St. Godrie's Hymn, I Mon Wax Mod, Lenten Is Come, The Long Night, Yif Ie Of Luve Can, Carol, Ye That Passen By, A Death, A Hymn To The Virgin, To Daffodils, The Succession Of The Four Sweet Months, Marsh Flowers, The Evening Primrose, The Ballad Of Green Broom, Shepard's Carol, Time Concord, Time And Concord, Country girls, Rustics And Fishermen, Final Dance Of Homage, Old Joe Has Gone Fishing, Hymn To St. Cecila

Simon Phipps Vokalensemble : Poulenc - Sacred and Profane

Review: Simon Phipps Vocal Ensemble was formed in 1997. Most of the 26 singers have a professional background in music, and several of them are working as musicians in and around Goteborg. The ensemble was named Choir of the Year 2006 by Rikskonserter. During the last few years Simon Phipps Vocal Ensemble has established itself as one of Sweden's most prominent choirs. By winning a number of competitions, both nationally and around Europe, it has consolidated its position as an ensemble with a high quality of sound and a particular depth of repertoire. Sacre et Profane consists of choir music by Francis Poulenc (1899-1963), with lyrics by great French poets such as Paul Eluard and Guillaume Apollinaire. Poulenc is perhaps primarily regarded as a composer of vocal works: solo songs, choir music, oratories and operas, music that he set to lyrics of a high literary quality. Simon Phipps Vocal Ensemble has previously made a recording of music by Benjamin Britten (FRCD 006). A third CD is in the making, and will include works by Johannes Brahms. These three records reflect the composers' interpretations of both sacred and secular lyrics. Thus their common designation "sacred and secular".

Songlist: O Magnum Mysterium, Quem Vidistis Pastores Dicite, Videntes Stellam, Hodie Christus Natus Est, Salve Regina, Timor Et Tremor, Vinea Mea Electa, Tenebrae Factae Sunt, Tristis Est Anima Mea, Exultate Deo, La Blanche Neige, A Peine Defiguree, Par Une Nuit Nouvelle, Tous Les Droits, Belle Et Ressemblante, Marie, Luire, De Grandes Cuillers De Neige, La Bonne Neige, ois Meutri, La Nuit, Le Froid, La Solitude, MArgooton, Va Ta L'iau, La Belle Se Sied Au Pied De La Tour, Pilons I'orge, C'est La Petit Fill Du Prince, Ah Mon Beau Laboureur, Les Tisserands

Svanholm Singers : Veljo Tormis: Works for Men's Voices

Review: Although Veljo Tormis is the second-most-famous modern Estonian composer (the most famous being Arvo Part), his music remains scarcely known in the west. Unlike Part, Tormis' work hasn't undergone a major stylistic shift; he has remained committed to using Estonian folk song as a basis for his music from the beginning of his career. He's not simply an arranger or transcriber, though. The folk influence may be overt, or principles of its structure and distinctive characteristics may be submerged in a thoroughly contemporary soundworld. Even the most clearly modern pieces have a sense of emotional gravity and primal power that set them apart as the work of an individual musical thinker. Choral music has always been Tormis' preferred medium, and he has written over 500 choral works. This small sampling of works for (or arranged for) men's voices demonstrates the power and originality of his imagination. There is a sense in which his work seems a-historical, the product of a real maverick; it's hard to pinpoint any classical tradition or earlier composers from which his sound might have been derived. Composers since have made some of Tormis' qualities sound commonplace, but he has been writing like this throughout his long career. Central to his distinctiveness is his use of texture and rhythm, as elements more prominent than melody or harmony; the melodies may not stay with you, but the power of the driving pulse and eccentric textures is unforgettable. Many of the works include what would technically be considered extended vocal techniques, but in this context sound more primal than modern -- panting, shouting, chanting, whispering, and whistling. Tormis also uses a hugely resonant shamanic drum in several pieces, and it contributes to the ritualistic, primitive atmosphere that some of his work creates. One of the most effective pieces recorded here is also his most famous, Raua needmine (Curse Upon Iron), which has a profound monumentality and a sense that a mysterious rite is being enacted. Svanholm Singers, directed by Sofia Soderberg Eberhard, performs this music as if it had it in its blood. The group shows remarkable assurance in singing not only with obvious discipline, but with the wildness the music requires. The sound is full, present, and immediate. Fans of modern choral music who aren't familiar with Tormis' music owe it to themselves to explore it, and this collection makes a terrific place to start.

Songlist: An Aboriginal Song, I'd Like to Sing a Song, Stars, Crosswind, Our Shadows (Once We Will Reappear), Forging the Sampo, The Bishop and the Pagan, Incantation for a Stormy Sea, Men's Song, Bundling Song, Betrothal Visit Song, Song of the Turkish War, Serf's Song, Dancing Song, Curse Upon Iron

Swedish Radio Choir : Alfred Schnittke / Henryk Gorecki

Review:

Songlist: Requiem Aeternam, Kyrie, Dies Irae, Tuba Mirum, Rex remedae, Recordare, Lacrimosa, Domine Jesu Christe, Hostias, Sanctus, Benedictus, Agnus Dei, Credo, Requiem Aeternam, Henryk Gorecki: Miserere

Swedish Radio Choir : Visions and Non Thoughts

Review: The Swedish Radio Choir comprises 32 professional singers. Since Eric Ericson took over in the 1950s, it has become one of the world's most outstanding choirs - a universal tool of voices capable of delivering the sweetest a cappella tones or of performing an oratorio with enormous power and elasticity. The collective leaves room for each individual form of expression, creating a sound that is unique in the world of choral music. Being one of the world's foremost choirs entails collaborating with the very cream of choirmasters and musicians. On this recording they join with Swedish choirmaster marvel Ragnar Bohlin, leader of the San Francisco Symphony Chorus since 2007, and world-leading trombonist Christian Lindberg - featured here as both soloist and composer. Together they perform In Time of Pestilence, the evocative choral work by American composer and Pulitzer Prize winner Ned Rorem; Visions and Non Thoughts and Vid sista udden by Christian Lindberg for trombone, recitator and mixed choir; Fallandet by Thomas Jennefelt; Lighten mine eyes by Bo Hansson; and muo:aa:yiy::oum, Anders Hillborg's phonetic study in sound. This is the premiere recording on CD of these compositions by Lindberg, Jennefelt and Hansson.

Songlist: Adieu, Farewell Earth's Bliss, Rich Men, Trust not in Wealth, Beauty is But a Flower, Strength Stoops Unto the Grave, With With his Wantonness, Haste Therefore Each Degree, Visions and Non Thoughts, Fallandet, Vid Sista Udden, Lighten Mine Eyes, muocaaeyiywcoum

Swedish Radio Choir : Voices Of Nature

Review: This uniquely named work has moments of wondrous luminosity, particularly in its second and fourth movements. The second, which has a hypnotic slow lilt to it, even evokes the sensuality of the Poulenc Gloria (closing section), a most unlikely kinship. There are many inspiring moments and many memorable textures, and any worries the composer may have had about Western performers' response to this music would have been quickly dispelled by Tonu Kaljuste and the outstanding Swedish Radio Choir. Their technical assurance is so great that one can easily admire their powerful identification with the music, while Kaljuste clearly has a superb ear for texture, balancing convincingly Schnittke's often densely complex choral writing. The wordless Voices of Nature is a short relatively simple work for ten women's voices and vibraphone. Its coolness, however, makes a welcome foil to the intensity of the Concerto. Then follow three works by Estonian Arvo Part, and many listeners may experience some surprise at the cheerful, almost humorous nature of Dopo la Vittoria. The title means After the Victory, the text telling the story of how Ambrose, Bishop of Milan in the 4th century, composed the hymn Te Deum and sang it with St. Augustine when baptising him. It is a blithe work, with a wonderfully solemn 'Amen' just near the end, before the good-humoured music returns to round the work off.

Songlist: Concerto For Choir, Voice of Nature, Dopo La Vittoria, Bogorodiste Djevo, I Am The True Vine

Swedish Voices Chamber Choir : Swedish Rhapsody

Review: A generous collection of 26 finely-crafted folk, spiritual and traditional songs, with some light accompaniment, all sung in Swedish, by the acclaimed mixed-voice Swedish Voices Chamber Choir. Some favorites: "Uti ar hage (Out in the Meadows)," "Och jungfrun hon gar I dansen (The Maiden dancing in the Ring)," "Si god afton och god kvall (Evening Greeting Song)," "Tre korvisor (Three Choral Ballads)," ""Lustwins wijsa (Lustwin's Ballad)," "Sommarmarsch fran Osterbotten (Summer March from Osterbotten)," "Brusala," and the soulful "Sverige (Sweden)". There are a few all-instrumental songs here, but largely amazingly beautiful choral music from Sweden's finest! Nicely designed liner notes with info about the music.

Songlist: Stjarntandningen (The Star Lighting), Psaltare och lyra (Psaltery and Harp), Im Herbst, Swensk rapsodi (Swedish Rhapsody), Gladjens blomster (The Flowers of Delight), Uti var hage (Out in the Meadows), Och jungfrun hon gar I dansen (The Maiden Dancing in the Ring), Gammal sangpolska (Old Singing Polska), Vi salde vara hemman (Emigrant Song), Im Herbst, Varmlandsvisan (Thou lovely Varmland), Pingst (Whitsuntide), September, I Seaillets have (In The Pleasure Garden of the Seraglio), Havde jeg, o havde jeg en Datterson, o ja (Now If I Had a Grandson), Kung Liljekonvalje (King Lily-of-the-Valley), Idyll, Humoresk (Humoreque), Vaggsang (Lullaby), Polska, Lustwins wijsa (Lustwin's Ballad, Sommarmarsch fran Osterbotten (Summer March from Osterbotten), Sommarspalm (Summer Psalm), Forvarskvall (An Evening Early in the Spring), Brusala, Sverige (Sweden)

Uppsala University Choir : Seasons

Review: 50-strong Allmanna Sangen (the Uppsala, Sweden, University Choir), founded in 1830, is the oldest university choir in Scandinavia. Originally all male, it has been mixed-voice since 1963. Cecilia Rydinger Alin has been the conductor since 1988. Apart from domestic tours, international appearances have led to such awards as "Choir of the World" at a 1992 competition in Wales, and first prize in the 1997 Grand Prix Competition in Tolosa, Spain. Here are 32 tunes, all in Swedish except Nils Lindberg's "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day." Some favorites: Otto Lindblad's "Langtan till landet," Hans-Ola Ericsson's "Under linden," Viljo Tormis' "Kihnu Island Wedding Songs" and "Autumn Landscape" and Knut Hakanson's "Stjarngossar." A choral treat from Sweden!

Songlist: Glad sasom fageln, Majsang, Langtan till landet, Varsang, Dofta, dofta vit syren, Varen kom en Valborgsnatt, Varliga vindar, Varen, Det forsta varregnet, Verlaine-Stamning, Som ett blommande mandeltrad, Forvarskvall, Under linden, Kihnu Island Wedding Songs, Bara du gar over markerna, Shall I Compare thee to a summer's day, Sommarpsalm, Titania, Till Osterland, Autumn Landscape, Starngossar, Vintervisa, Snabbt jagar stormen vara ar

Voces Nordicae : Time Is Now

Review: Time is Now, the successor of their first album Nordic Voices, contains a broad spectrum of favorites from the choir's repertoire. The time span is huge, covering music from the Renaissance to the present day, with compositions by Francisco Guerrero, Josef Rheinberger, James Taylor, Olle Lindberg, Susanne Rosenberg, among others. The conductor and artistic leader, Lone Larsen, has contributed with the title track Time is Now and also with some of the arrangements. The variety in the repertoire is a clear signum of Voces Nordicae. Voces Nordicae has gained an international reputation as one of the most prominent choirs in Sweden. Part of this reputation is due to their successful appearances at special performances abroad and a number of awards at international choir festivals. As one of the foremost representatives of Swedish choral singing, Nordic Voices was invited to the ACDA's (American Choral Directors Association) national meeting in Miami, in Mars 2007. This is an honor that previously has been given to only three Swedish choirs, among these the Swedish Radio Choir and The Real Group.

Songlist: Ave MAria, Pater Noster, Hymn To The Creator Of Light, Time is Now, Danse, Ikke Grate Na, Pust, Be Of Love, That Lonesome Road, Sun On The Moon, Det Er Den Storste Darlightet, Sonnet No. 76, Kyrie, Gloria, Kyrie

Eric Ericson Chamber Choir : Khoros - Music For Choir A Cappella

Review: Born in 1921, the composer Ingvar Lidholm is the doyen of Swedish music. We recently released three CDs as a survey of his orchestral works, and now the time has come for this two-disc set of his music for choir a cappella. Containing the absolute majority of Lidholm's works in this genre, this release is also a documentation of the unique collaboration between the composer and the renowned choral conductor Eric Ericson. Most of these works, starting with Laudi from 1947, were actually written for the Eric Ericson Chamber Choir, an ensemble which has been described as 'the Mercedes of the choral world' and which is used by conductors such as Muti, Abbado and Levine for concerts and recordings. With the EECC as his instrument, Lidholm has created a choral style which is both virtuosic and expressive while ofet exploring moral issues, for instance in The Persians, a setting a scene from Aeschylus's tragedy, which in Lidholm's opinion deals with 'the curse of power-mad leaders throughout history, not least in our own time.' Texts from or about classical antiquity have often provided Lidholm with inspiration, for instance in Greek Gravestone and Two Greek Epigrams. Another major source of material has been the Swedish playwright August Strindberg: 'demented and deranged in many ways, a fantastic inspiration'. Lidholm has used texts by Strindberg in various works on this disc, such as the extracts from the opera 'A Dreamplay', in which the choir has an important musical function. These recordings, made between February 2003 and April 2005 with the composer taking an active part, might be considered the climax of almost 60 years of collaboration between two great makers of music: Eric Ericson and Ingvar Lidholm. (2 CDs)

Songlist: Laudi (1947) for mixed chorus, The Pillar of Time (Tidens pelare), The Sea (Havet), Breaking Up (Uppbrott), Afterwards (Efterat), Tre Visor, Canto LXXXI, The Persians, Libera me, Motto, Two Greek Epigrams, Greek Gravestone, Three Strindberg Songs, A Dream Play, ...a riveder de stelle

Eric Ericson : Teaching

Review: The tenaciously active superstar Eric Ericson celebrated his 90th birthday on October 26 2008. His international celebrity status is exceptional, and people everywhere talk with reverence of the "Swedish Choral Miracle" - an expression that is very much synonymous with his life work. In this unique 14-part documentary film "Teaching", Birgitta Ohman and Swedish Television have captured Eric Ericson's playful yet inspirational style of teaching at the Royal College of Music. Caprice Records in collaboration with the Royal Swedish Academy of Music presents this TV series on one DVD along with a bonus interview with Ericson from 2008. Experience for yourself the process of interpreting and performing choral music from all eras. Appearing is Eric Ericson, Anne Sofie von Otter, Marianne Eklof, Thomas Jennefeldt, Stefan Parkman, among others.

Songlist: Conducting lesson with a. o. Anne Sofie von Otter, Conducting lesson: J.S. Bach & Sven-Erik Back, Conducting lesson: Arne Mellnas & Thomas Morley, Conducting lesson: David Wikander, Karl-Erik Welin & Bela Bartok, Thomas Morley & Orlando di Lasso, Lars Edlund, Kurt Lindgren & Bela Bartok, Warming up with Stefan Parkman, August Soderman, Alf Cranner, A.F. Lindblad & H.L Hassler, "Samtalssinfonietta": Georg Riedel, Sven-Erik Johanson & Johannes Brahms, En visa: Sven-Erik Back, No bird soars to high: Lars-Erik Larsson, Scherzo: Lars Edlund, Scherzo & "Femton finnar" arr. Lars Edlund, Bonus: Eric Ericson interview 2008

Harmony of Voices : Soavi Accenti

Review: Fredrik Malmberg, conductor and artistic director of the ensemble, is one of the most sought-after of choral conductors in Sweden today. Harmony Of Voices was formed in the autumn of 2003 and rapidly established itself as one of the most exciting vocal ensembles in Sweden. The repertoire of this album is concentrated on Early Music and the ensemble's capacity to combine historical authenticity with creative interpretation has won it considerable renown. This disc is an ideal demonstration of the superior clarity, detail and coherence of the SACD Medium.

Songlist: Zefiro Torna, Chiome D'oro, Non Havea Febo Ancora, Non Havea Febo Ancora: Amor (Lamento Della Ninfa), Non Havea Febo Ancora: Si Tra Sdegnosi, Sonata Duodecima Per Due Soprani E Trombone, Apritevi, Inferni: Recitativ, Apritevi, A Chi Dio: Aria, Sonata Undecima Per Due Violini E Trombone, Vanitas Vanitatum, Vanitas Vanitatum: Hinc Mortales, Symphonia Tempro la Cetra

Orphei Drangar : Curse Upon Iron: Works for Male Choir by Veljo Tormis

Review: A modern shaman is how Veljo Tormis (b.1930) has been described. In his large production, chiefly composed for a cappella choir, he utilizes ancient chants and magic charms, as well as the typically Estonian runic songs, regilaulud. Indeed Curse upon Iron, his best-known score, even includes a shaman drum. Much of the music of Tormis, who began composing during the 1950s, mirrors his steadfast devotion to an Estonian identity in the face of Soviet occupation, with traditional ways of life, such as farming and fishing, resonating in pieces such as Helletused - based on ancient herding calls - Spell upon Flax (from the three Shrovetide songs) and Songs of the Ancient Sea. But there are also works, such as the two Hamlet's Songs, that seem to echo the bleak mood of Soviet Estonia, while The Viru Oath is one of Tormis's most overtly political compositions, written in 1980 during the so-called 'stagnation period' in which the thaw following Stalin's death was halted. With Stars, from Kaksikpuhendus (Double Dedication), the disc closes on a more lyrical and personal note - another strand in the composer's rich repertoire. The informative liner notes to this selection of works for male-voice choir composed between 1962 and 1996 are by Mimi S. Daitz, author of a biography of Veljo Tormis. As she explains, even when Tormis does not use traditional tunes, he incorporates their scales and intervals into his melodies and harmonies, thus creating a unique sound. Divisions of voices into separate lines play an important part in Tormis's orchestration of voices, and another characteristic is his rhythmic ingenuity. The various demands this places on the performers are amply fulfilled by Cecilia Rydinger Alin and Orphei Drangar, described in Choir and Organ as 'a tremendous choir, with superb technique and an immense, expressive range'. Further variety is added by a number of guest soloists, including the internationally acclaimed soprano Elin Rombo.

Songlist: Incantation for a Stormy Sea, Once We Will Reappear, I Had Three Beautiful Words, Shrovetide Songs, Litany to Thunder, The Viru Oath, Childhood Memory - Herding Calls, (Curse upon Iron, Songs of the Ancient Sea, Hamlet's Songs, Double Dedication

Swedish Radio Choir : Nordic Sounds: Music of Sven-David Sandstrom

Review: When composing for choir, Sven-David Sandstrom (1942 ) does not hold back in terms of expression or technical demands. This contributes toward a powerfully emotional tonal language, to which the Nordic sound of the Swedish Radio Choir is perfectly suited. Composer and choir have worked together for years and their close relationship is evident in the excellent performances heard here. Channel s usual superb multi-channel recording provides the perfect ambience to allow the music to speak.

Songlist: Lobet den Herrn, Ave Maria, Hear my prayer, O Lord, Est ist genug, A new song of love, Laudamus Te, Agnus Dei, Singet dem Herrn: I, Singet dem Herrn: II, Singet dem Herrn: III

Esa-Pekka Salonen : Two Songs from Kalender Rod

Review: Composed for unaccompanied Double Mixed Chorus, these two songs were commissioned by the Swedish Broadcasting Corporation for the 75th Anniversary Concert of the Swedish Radio Choir. Based on two poems by Ann Jaderlund with text in Swedish and an English translation.

Songlist: Djupt I Rummet, Kyss Min Mun

Robert Sund : Three Motets

Review: Robert Sund is a distinguished Swedish composer and conductor. These unaccompanied works for mixed chorus divisi, based on sacred texts in Latin, include: Ave maris stella, Ave verum corpus, Ave Maria.

Songlist: Ave maris stella, Ave verum corpus, Ave Maria

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