From the contemplative mysticism of Messiaen to the Buddhist prayers of Boulanger and the neoclassical psalm settings of Stravinsky, these radical innovators all use the voice as a catalyst in the universal human quest for a higher purpose and peace of soul.
We all believe in something, whether it's religious faith, trust in science, or simply belief in ourselves and the opportunities life offers. Rituals and traditions provide guidance in this journey – even for radical innovators like Messiaen and Stravinsky.
Messiaen found inspiration in ancient Greek poetry, Hindu rhythms, and birdsong, but also from peers like Debussy and Stravinsky. The constant: his unwavering, mystically oriented Catholic faith. From a modernist like Stravinsky, one might not expect a strong dedication to God, yet his Symphonie des Psaumes resonates almost like a musical icon.
programme
Olivier Messiaen
O sacrum convivium (1937) / Les Offrandes oubliées (1930)
Igor Stravinsky
Chorale-Variations "Vom Himmel hoch da komm' ich her" (1956) / Symphonie de psaumes (1930)
Lili Boulanger Vieille prière bouddhique (Prière quotidienne pour tout l'univers) (1917) / Psalm CXXIX "Ils m'ont assez opprimé dès ma jeunesse" (1916)
Francis Poulenc Quatre motets pour un temps de pénitence: III. Tenebrae factae sunt (1939)
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Stravinsky’s journeys
From the glamour of Paris to the sun-kissed hills of Hollywood: discover how Igor Stravinsky was able to transform his art throughout his extraordinary life.
watch documentaryWhy listen to Lili Boulanger
It’s no exaggeration to say that Lili Boulanger might well have become one of the most significant composers of the 20th century, had fate been kinder. Watch this video and discover why her music deserves your attention.
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Listen to this episode of Classical Insights, and learn about Messiaen's Les Offrandes Oubliées with Jonathan Palevsky.
listen to podcastPress play: Messiaen & Stravinsky
Robin Broos curated a selection of cinematic gems exploring the power of tradition and rituals, and the search for identity.
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