Benedict XVI Choir & Orchestra / Richard Sparks

Cappella Records ★★★★

The premiere recording of these two very personal works from a composer with Ukrainian roots offers stately, intense music of accessible expression and expansive gesture. The professional choir, with excellent soloists from within, is capable of swathes of richly numinous sostenuto. Messe des Malades for choir and, often sepulchrally deep organ, channels anguish in dignified, compelling sonorities while promising transcendence through faith. The 1941 murder of a Ukrainian priest by the Bolsheviks inspired a deceptively spare, emotionally stratified and devotionally profound Requiem, scored for choir, soloists, low strings, harp, and organ. Inspirational stuff, captured in glowing sound.

This review originally appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of Choir & Organ magazine. Never miss an issue – subscribe today