Paul Salamunovich

Review: Maestro Salamunovich conducts the Master Chorale and Sinfonia Orchestra in two true masterworks of the late 20th century choral literature. Of his work 'Te Deum, (Verba Domini cum verbis populi)' Minnesota based composer Dominick Argento has written that the words are, as the subtitle implies, written in a manner which associates six sections of Middle English lyrics with the six Latin texts. It was composed thus to present a sense of the learned 'church style' justaposed with more musical elements found in the populace of the day. Maurice Durufle's Messe (Mass) 'Cum Jublio' written in 1966 was scored for a unison choir of men's voices and organ or orchestra. While having five movements they are not usual and throughout there permeates plainchant melodies from the Gregorian Mass IX, 'Cum Jubilo.' Glorious!

Songlist: Te Deum, Te Deum Iaudamus, Te gloriosus Apostolorum, Patrem immensae majestasis, Tu Rex gloriae, Christie, Tu ad dexteram Dei sedes, Salvum fac populum tuum, Messe "Cum Jubilo," Op.11, Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Benedictus, Agnus Dei

Review: Morton Lauridsen is Composer-in-Residence for the Master Chorale and Chair of the Dept. of Composition at USC. These original works are performed by the Chorale under the direction of Paul Salamunovich. Accompanied by the Sinfonia Orchestra, this recording was Grammy nominated, and has been in high demand since its release. Containing works written in the past decade as well as three world premiere recordings (seventeen tracks in all) it begins with the self-titled 'Lux Aeterna,' a five movement work that draws upon Latin texts, each containing references to Light. Next are the exquisite 'Chansons Des Roses,' set to poems of Rainier Maria Rilke. 'Ave Maria' is an a cappella motet, and 'Mid-Winter Songs' is a choral cycle using winter as its unifying motif. The result is ethereal, inspiring and above all, flawless.

Songlist: Introitus, In Te, Domine, Speravi, O Nata Lux, Veni, Sacte Spiritus, Agnus Die- Lux Eterna, En Une Seule Fleur, Contre Qui, Rose, De Ton Reve Trop Plein, La Rose Complete, Dirait-On, Ave Maria, Lament For Pasiphae, Like Snow, She Tells Her Love While Half Asleep, Mid-Winter Walking, Intercesson In Late October, O Magnum Mysterium

Review: Paul Salamunovich, Grammy-nominated Conductor Emeritus of the Los Angeles Master Chorale, discusses why his concepts of tone, style and musicianship are rooted in chant. In addition to sharing his expertise in interviews, the Maestro reheares Durufle and Lauridson with university singers. This DVD allows the viewer to experience his artistry from a choir member's perspective. For many years, Paul Salamunovich has been creating just about the lovliest choral singing this side of heaven. This DVD provides a look behind the scenes from which we can learn what drives his quest for choral excellence and how he achieves it. At the heart of his Vision of choral music lies the rich repertory of gregorgian chant which he first learned as a boy soprano, providing a true and solid foundation for good singing in a whole range of styles. A Salamunovich is always honest and true to the composer, but beyond that, transformed by the the light of the spirit and the warmth of inner beauty which Paul has the rare ability to reveal. Paul is an unforgettable man, musician, conductor, and teacher who enriches every life he touches. This very Welcome DVD will help to ensure that his legacy endures.

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