Search - Russian Orthodox Chant, Alexandr Dmitriyevich Kastalsky, Ivan Platonov :: Russian Chant for Vespers

A Beautiful Collection of Russian Liturgical Music

Timothy Kearney | Hull, MA United States | 04/19/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Russian liturgical music from the monasteries is a combination of a number of different styles. Since the Church id from the orthodox tradition, the music is influenced partly by Greek liturgical music. It also has a bit of a western Gregorian flow to it, though this is not as strong as other influences. It also has a bit of Russian folk music flair to it. Musically it is interesting, but it also has a spiritual quality to it. Perhaps because it has survived against tremendous odds during the Soviet years, it has strength to it as well. This recording by the Novospassky Monastery Choir contains liturgical music primarily for Easter but contains other prayers and psalms as well. The CD has liner notes but no translation for the music, but for the price, this is not a complaint. The choir is strong and is able to convey both the majesty and beauty of the music.Once again, Naxos has provided a unique quality musical experience and a budget price."

A disappointment

Nicholas G. Steblez | Shenandoah Valley, VA | 10/07/2008

(1 out of 5 stars)

"I must say that I'm quite disappointed with this CD. The title is misleading in the extreme. There is very little of what I would consider and actual chant on the whole CD, and the rest is operatic western-style singing which is not what I would expect from an Orthodox monastic choir. If the title had been correctly discriptive I would not have purchased this item, and as the matter stands, I'll give it away to any of my Orthodox friends who might want it. I really must remember to check ALL the sound clips before I buy.



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