Description
Originally recorded by Chesky Records in 1992, O Magnum Mysterium is a magnificent showcase of the world renowned Westminster Choir's stunning tonal blend, pristine balance, and nuanced emotional expression. Under the direction of longtime conductor Joseph Flummerfelt, the Princeton, New Jersey-based ensemble - widely recognised for their historic, multi-season performances alongside the New York Philharmonic - reaches a pinnacle of choral artistry on this landmark album.
The meticulously curated program features nine exquisite settings of sacred vocal music focusing on the Christmas story and the mystery of the Incarnation, structured loosely after the sequence of a traditional Sunday worship service. The journey is anchored by three contrasting settings of the titular "O Magnum Mysterium" by Tomas Luis de Victoria, Peter Maxwell Davies, and Francis Poulenc. From the delicate, airy English Renaissance structures of William Byrd's "Ave Verum Corpus" to the modern, chromatic brilliance of Verdi's "Ave Maria", the tracklist offers sublime stylistic and sonic contrast.
Captured by acclaimed recording engineer Bob Katz in the immense, beautifully resonant sanctuary of the Episcopal Church of St. Mary the Virgin in New York City, the natural reverb of the stone cathedral allows the choir and organ to hover three-dimensionally.
Utilising Chesky's stunning 2018 remaster, this audiophile classic is beautifully presented on 180g One-step Pressing vinyl LP and Stereo Hybrid SACD.
