CANTUS
Cantus – Works by Egil Hovland, a compelling new album that pays tribute to one of Norway’s most visionary composers. The recording features acclaimed organist Lars Notto Birkeland, renowned percussionist Eirik Raude and Forsvarets stabsmusikkorps (The Norwegian Armed Forces Band), conducted by Peter Szilvay.
Egil Hovland (1924–2013) was a central figure in Norwegian sacred music, known for his bold synthesis of tradition and modernity. Cantus presents a selection of his works for organ and brass ensemble, for organ and percussion and solo organ revealing the spiritual depth, harmonic richness, and expressive power that define his musical legacy.
Lars Notto Birkeland delivers a masterful interpretation of Hovland’s organ writing, while Eirik Raude brings nuance and vitality to the percussion parts. Forsvarets stabsmusikkorps, under the baton of Peter Szilvay, adds precision, warmth, and grandeur. Together, these artists offer a deeply moving and sonically immersive experience.
This release continues to showcase Norwegian composers and performers at the highest artistic level. Cantus is a celebration of Egil Hovland’s enduring influence and a testament to the power of sacred music in contemporary performance.
EGIL HOVLAND (1924-2013)
Cantus VII (il Maestro) for organ, brass instruments and timpani
1. I - 06:02
2. II - 05:44
3. III - 03:25
Cantus IX (Te Deum) for organ and percussion
4. I - 07:14
5. II (Toccata) - 07:17
6. III (Epilogue) – 02:38
Crux Ave – Variationen über “Jerusalem, du hochgebaute Stadt” (Orgelpartita VII)
7. I - 01:23
8. II - 02:29
9. III - 03:30
10. IV - 02:20
11. V - 04:00
12. VI - 04:09
13. VII - 02:12
14. Den vakreste rosen (Interludium) - 02:31
15. Nu la oss takke gud (Toccata) - 03:22
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