3 PSALMS (MENDELSSOHN, MÄNTYJÄRVIi)

This very fine and enterprising new choral disc features a refreshing juxtaposition of the three Psalm settings op.78 by Mendelssohn, dating from 1841 to 1844, and new settings of the same Psalms – nos. 2, 22 and 43 – by the already well-established choral composer Jaako Mäntyjärvi for the celebration of the 200th anniversary of Mendelssohn’s birth. The new settings, punctuated by bells, represent the inventions of a highly inventive and colourful choral composer, and the Mendelssohn performances reach an impressively high standard.

PATRIC STANDFORD Read the full review on Agora Classica