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Psallat Ecclesia - Schola Solensis

Psallat Ecclesia - Schola Solensis

2L  2L-070-SACD

Stereo/Multichannel Hybrid

Classical - Vocal


"Psallat Ecclesia"

Ragnhild Hadland (soloist)
Schola Solensis
Halvor J. Østtveit (conductor)


What we call Gregorian chant is old music. By the 13th century most of it was already composed. It is the church's oldest musical treasure, and is the word of God spoken, and prayers prayed, in a language where the word is lifted and born on wings of exquisite beauty. It is not just a language of words, but a meeting of words and melody in an expression of extraordinary power.

Gregorian chant developed over a long period of oral transmission from generation to generation. If there is an evolutionary theory for artistic expression, a sort of "survival of the fittest", it can certainly be used about Gregorian chant. Many of these melodies are so unbelievably beautiful; it is as if we sense divine participation in their creation. There is an air of mysticism in this music, which more and more people are seeking as a setting for meditation and prayer.

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Review by John Broggio - January 17, 2012

This is a welcome counterpart to Exaudiam Eum - Consortium Vocale but here we have the female voices of Schola Solensis under the direction of Halvor J. Osttveit with solo contributions from Ragnhild Hadland.

This collection contains 2 of 3 sequences that were sung (by decree) in the Archbishopric of Nidaros. Whilst some might baulk at the thought of female voices tackling such repertoire (it would have been the exclusive preserve of monks back in mediaeval times), there is no doubt that the Schola Solensis offer us a well-blended sound and phrase sensitively under Osttveit's direction.

2L's sound is, as ever, extraordinary in the clarity attained. One word of warning though, unlike many classical discs, this is mastered at a relatively high volume level (the relative lack of dynamic range allows for this) so coming to this following a very quiet ending might cause the ears a little consternation!

Very relaxing & beautiful - recommended.

Copyright © 2012 John Broggio and HRAudio.net

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Comment by gamespyer - June 1, 2016 (1 of 1)

Absolutely amazing and perfect vocal performance, I listen to all tracks again and again, for the whole afternoon...