Rautavaara, Nils Schweckendiek, Helsinki Chamber Choir - Vigilia

Review by GHSR MENA

Vigilia, the album by Rautavaara, Nils Schweckendiek, and Helsinki Chamber Choir, is a mesmerizing collection of choral works that captivate the listener with their sheer beauty and spiritual depth. The album is a tribute to the Finnish composer Einojuhani Rautavaara, who passed away in 2016, and features some of his most introspective and mystical compositions.

The Helsinki Chamber Choir, under the direction of Nils Schweckendiek, delivers a flawless performance, bringing out the nuances and subtleties of Rautavaara's music with precision and sensitivity. The choir's voices blend seamlessly together, creating a rich and resonant sound that fills the room with a sense of serenity and awe.

The album is structured around the theme of the Vigil, a liturgical service that takes place on the eve of a holy day. Rautavaara's music explores the mystical and spiritual dimensions of this ritual, drawing on ancient traditions and modernist techniques to create a unique and transcendent musical experience.

Each piece on the album is a masterpiece in its own right, but some highlights include "All-Night Vigil," a hauntingly beautiful setting of Orthodox liturgical texts, and "Vigilia," a mesmerizing work for choir and cello that evokes the mystery and wonder of the divine.

Summary by GHSR MENA

Vigilia is a stunning album that showcases the brilliance of Rautavaara's music and the exceptional talent of the Helsinki Chamber Choir. It is a must-have for anyone who appreciates choral music or seeks a profound and moving spiritual experience.