Tavener: Ikon of Eros
$11.98 – $16.98
Minnesota Orchestra
Minnesota Chorale
Paul Goodwin, conductor
Jorja Fleezanis, Violin • Patricia Rozario, Soprano • Tim Krol, Baritone
One of today’s most celebrated composers, Sir John Tavener has earned a huge following worldwide for the combination of spiritual mysticism, reverent yearning and passion that suffuses all of his music. This work originated as a commission for Jorja Fleezanis, concert-mistress of the Minnesota Orchestra, on the occasion of the orchestra’s Centennial. This magnificent work expresses a moving interplay between the forces of the orchestra, depicting aspects of the Divine Spirit, and the violin, representing the “Divine Eros” – “our longing for God and His longing for us.” The music speaks deeply to a universal longing for love, peace and transcendence that unites all faiths. Prof. Johnson’s recording amazingly captures the enveloping sound of the massed orchestra, choir and soloists in the magnificent acoustics of the Cathedral of Saint Paul, MN, creating a transcendent musical and sonic experience.
On This Recording
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Ikon of Eros:
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- John Tavener in Interview with Brian Newhouse
Reviews:
“A recording like this is no mere entertainment… The music is immediately seductive, but it nevertheless requires several auditions in order to unlock all of its beauty… This is a powerful work, from which emanates the scent of immateriality.” —Reine Lessard, Ultra High Fidelity
“This is a spiritual work, one that shares the religious impulse with all the great works of the past, Bach’s Cantatas, Handel’s Messiah, Mozart’s Requiem, etc. though it is not in the same idiom. Whether you agree with Tavener’s philosophy or not, this is powerful stuff. Most highly recommended. Among the most exciting music I’ve heard lately.” – Max Dudious, Audiophile Audition
“Gorgeous, mystical music with the power to entrance. Sir John Taverner, a follower of the Greek Orthodox faith, writes simple, repetitive compositions that embody the spiritual essence of prayer…Slowing down – sitting or lying in silence by candlelight would be ideal – is essential to experience Tavener’s reverential universe. This is a universe that is always with us, Tavener’s music suggests, if we are only willing to align ourselves and tune in…Captured in demonstration quality 24–bit HDCD sound by Prof. Keith Johnson, this world premiere recording is an extraordinary achievement.” –Jason Serinus, Bay Area Reporter
“The recording, a world premiere of this piece, is beyond reproach. Individual instruments are distinct and float in space. By his own words, Tavener recommends that the piece be played in a resonant acoustic. He could have not asked for a better place. The voices echo slightly off of the walls and ceiling creating an even more metaphysical feeling. I don’t think I’ve heard a better piece to test your soundstage. There is little else I can provide. Tavener says Ikon of Eros is “humbly offered to those who have ears to hear.” I suggest you take him up on it.”
–Bill Brooks, 12/03, Soundstage.com
