This seems like a great time to get to know this composer a little better and to hopefully introduce his music to a bigger audience.
Michael Debbage had told me before the trip that CDs like this one were the reason he had become a reviewer - no small praise! Gjeilo’s flawless technique, soulful compositions, and elegant playing style are mesmerizing to the point that both Mike and I listed Stone Rose as one of the best CDs of the decade. His Stone Rose CD had come in for review, and I listened to it over and over as I drove. This is a masterful recording, both in content and execution.I first heard the music of Ola Gjeilo (pronounced Yay-lo) in September 2008 when I was making the long drive from the central Oregon Coast to the SF Bay Area. I heartily recommend this release to everyone. This Slovenian composer’s style is similar to Gjeilo’s (though perhaps leaning a little towards Arvo Part). Von Bingen’s music sound suspended in time (as Gjeilo’s can), and Durufle’s thick harmonies complement Gjeilo’s style.Īlso included are arrangements of Felix Mendelssohn motets, and a work by Damijan Mocnik. Included is a Hildegard von Bingen piece, and a Maurice Durufle motet. Gjeilo’s shorter works on the album share that same quality on a smaller scale.ĭirector James Jordan wisely leavens all that richness. Gjeilo’s rich, consonant harmonies give the work a luminosity that completely wins over the listener (well, this one, anyway). Sections of long, sustained tones are followed episodes of rhythmic intensity.
The work contracts and expands organically. The title track, “Sunrise Mass” is a half-hour meditation for choir and string orchestra. That seamless blend and precise voice control help turn Gjeilo’s music into something extraordinary. The voices blend so well that it’s virtually impossible to pick out the individual sections (unless it’s the intent of the music). Westminster Williamson Voices is an exceptional ensemble. The end result is a choral album that is first-rate in every regard - the choice of material, the cohesiveness of the program, the quality of the recording, and the quality of the performances. And while “Sunrise Mass” showcases Gjeilo’s music, works by other composers are wisely interspersed for variety. Ola Gjeilo has a gift for writing choral music of exceeding beauty.
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