Description
Janáček – Glagolitic Mass • Kodály – Missa Brevis | Kempe • Heltay • Decca Virtuoso CD
UPC: 028947869641
MPN: 478 6964 DB
Brand Name: DECCA (Virtuoso Series)
Overview
This Decca Virtuoso release unites two monumental 20th-century sacred choral works: Janáček’s Glagolitic Mass and Kodály’s Missa Brevis. Recorded with the Brighton Festival Chorus, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and conductors Rudolf Kempe and Laszlo Heltay, this CD offers radiant interpretations that highlight both the vitality and deep spirituality of these masterpieces. A vivid blend of drama, color, and devotion, it’s an inspiring listening experience for lovers of great choral music.
Product Features
- Format: Audio CD
- Works Included: Janáček – Glagolitic Mass; Kodály – Missa Brevis
- Total Timing: 73:05 minutes
- Label: DECCA (Virtuoso Series)
- Release Year: 2014 (original recordings 1974 & 1976)
- Country of Manufacture: EU
- Booklet: Quick-read notes included
- Genre: Classical – Choral / Sacred Music
-
Artists:
- Brighton Festival Chorus
- Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
- Rudolf Kempe (conductor, Janáček)
- Laszlo Heltay (conductor, Kodály)
Interesting Facts
- Leoš Janáček (1854–1928) composed the Glagolitic Mass in 1926, setting the Latin Mass text in the Old Church Slavonic language. Far from solemn, it bursts with joy and energy, reflecting Janáček’s vision of faith as vibrant and life-affirming.
- Gramophone described this recording as “glowing, energetic, buoyant, and brilliant,” capturing the work’s jubilant spirit.
- Zoltán Kodály (1882–1967) wrote the Missa Brevis during the dark years of World War II. Its heartfelt lyricism and introspection stand in contrast to Janáček’s bold exultation.
- Together, these works showcase two very different Central European sacred traditions: one celebrating vitality, the other embodying resilience and devotion.
Track Listing
Leoš Janáček – Glagolitic Mass (1974) Performed by Brighton Festival Chorus & Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Conductor: Rudolf Kempe Tracks 1–8 – Total: 41:49
Zoltán Kodály – Missa Brevis (1976) Performed by Brighton Festival Chorus Conductor: Laszlo Heltay Tracks 9–16 – Total: 31:16
Publishers
- ℗ 1974 (Janáček), 1976 (Kodály), Universal International Music B.V.
- © 2014 Decca Music Group Limited
- Distributed by Universal Music Group
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