'Prayer' from Magdalena Kožená is this Week's Classic 107 McNally Robinson Classical Recording of the Week

Czech mezzo soprano Magdalena Kožená has undertaken a certain number of moderately adventurous projects, but the present release doesn't match anything she or probably anyone else has done.

 The new recording from Magdalena Kožená features deeply-felt interpretations of sacred songs from the Baroque to the 20th Century In a rare recording collaboration, she is joined by virtuoso Christian Schmitt, in music for voice and organ from the sacred traditions of Germany, Austria, France and England, as well as her native Czechoslovakia.

Of course, the album includes music by J.S. Bach – a composer with whom Magdalena has long been associated - with sacred aspects of German song represented by Hugo Wolf and Schubert The French tradition is heard in the music of Bizet, Ravel and the great Parisian organist Maurice Durufle.

Bizet’s Agnus Dei and Verdi’s Ave Maria reveal less familiar aspects of composers more often associated with opera houses than churches, whilst Henry Purcell’s setting of The Blessed Virgin’s Expostulation showcases Magdalena’s extraordinary ability to inhabit musical drama Her continuing commitment to the music of her Czech homeland sees the inclusion of music by both Dvorak and Janacek.

‘The Czech mezzo . . . produces one of the loveliest sounds to be heard on the world’s stages – a flowing, spring-water-like tone that evokes the term ‘luminous’.’ - Opera News

Tune in throughout the week to hear selections from this recording and for your chance to win a $25 Gift Card from McNally Robinson Booksellers.

If you'd like to purchase this CD, go to McNally Robinson Booksellers Grant Park and look for the Classic 107 display in the music section.

Tune in every Monday morning at 8:30 AM for a new classcial recoding of the week as chosen by Classic 107's Michael Wolch and McNally Robinson's Andy Morton.

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