Visions Eternal” = THOMAS JUNEAU: Four works – soloists/Summit Chorale/Scarlet Knight Brass & Perc. – Ravello

by | Jul 14, 2016 | Classical CD Reviews

The first disc from a new voice well worth exploring.

“Visions Eternal” = THOMAS JUNEAU: Te Deum; Five Latin Motets; Magnum Mysterium; Gaudete – Tami Petty (sop.)/ Sharon Byrne (mezzo)/ Mark Boyle (tenor)/ Jonathan Mortensen (bari.)/, Eun-Hee Park (organ) Elaine Christy (harp)/ Summit Chorale/ Scarlet Knight Brass and Percussion Ensemble – Ravello RR7913, 49:31 [Distr. by Naxos] ****:

Thomas Juneau is Music Director of Summit Chorale, one of New Jersey’s most venerable choral organizations, and the Juneau Vocal Alliance, founded in 2011. His music has been performed in many places, and the intensity of his expression is quite gripping. This recital, two big pieces for choir and instrumental ensemble, and including a number of a cappella works for both SATB and Women’s voices, is a good representation of his style and efforts. Though I certainly appreciate the large-scaled works, it is the Five Latin Motets and superb Magnum Mysterium for treble voices and harp that I find the most affecting. Juneau’s harmonies are nothing innovative or unique, but are constructed with such care so that no note is superfluous, and the results bring shivers and exaltation.
All of the performers are top notch, obviously very familiar with the pieces, and render them with emotion and clarity. This disc, recorded in bright but accessible sound, is something of a must-have for those on the lookout for exciting up-and-coming compositional voices, and for those who love choral music in general.

—Steven Ritter

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