Bernstein Mass Conducted by Marin Alsop being released in August May 23, 2009
Acclaimed conductor Marin Alsop’s exciting new recording of Bernstein’s Mass will be released in August on Naxos American Classics. This 2-CD recording is the latest in an impressive series of highly-praised recordings which Marin Alsop has made for Naxos.
Ms Alsop describes Bernstein’s Mass as ‘one of the great American 20th century masterpieces, in my opinion. This is a work that broke ground on every level. It is a multi-disciplinary theater work that crosses stylistic, political and social boundaries in novel and inspiring ways. Written for the opening of the Kennedy Center, Mass challenges us to think about faith, humanity, war and responsibility…what could be more relevant today?’
Of her future Naxos releases, she remarks: ‘Mahler’s Symphony No 1 is a work that I've aspired to record and am thrilled to have on CD with my wonderful Baltimore Symphony. It is a showcase for an orchestral and a piece that heralds the advent of the 20th century. Bernstein called Mahler the “prophet of the 20th Century” and I agree. Mahler delves into the psyche in new and profound ways, echoing the work of his contemporary, Sigmund Freud. It was a monumental time in human history and this symphony signals its birth.
‘I am also looking forward to the release of our next two CDs in the Dvořák cycle. The 9th Symphony met with such a great response, and I think the others sound even more thrilling!’
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BERNSTEIN Mass
8.559622-23
Jubilant Sykes, baritone
Morgan State University Choir
Peabody Children's Chorus
Morgan State University Marching Band
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Marin Alsop, conductor
When Leonard Bernstein was asked by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to compose the inaugural piece for the opening of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., he wrote ‘The Mass is also an extremely dramatic event in itself—it even suggests a theater work’. Premiered on 8 September 1971, with additional words by Stephen Schwartz of Godspell fame, Mass is a remarkable visionary piece with a kaleidoscope of musical styles that touches on themes of political protest, existential crisis, and religious faith lost and found.
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The charismatic baritone Jubilant Sykes sings the rôle of the Celebrant
Peabody Children's Chorus
Marin Alsop conducting Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Leonard Bernstein Biography & Discography
Marin Alsop Biography & Discography
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Biography & Discography
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