A wonderful “concert version” of the revered Komitas Divine Liturgy! Here the great Komitas work is transformed into a “concert mass” in the first-ever recording of this appealing mixed choir version. This version for mixed choir was beautifully arranged and edited by the brilliant Armenian composer Vache Sharafyan. In his arrangement, the added colors of female voices increase the beauty of the work. This version is also “concert length,” which means that it is appropriately shorter — and more accessible — than the original. The Latvian Radio Choir, under its remarkable conductor Sigvards Klava, is a unique, award-winning ensemble called “One of the world’s greatest choirs” by The Advertiser and “A great musical power” by the Washington Post. The accompanying booklet offers much interesting commentary, Komitas’ own autobiography, Armenian texts and transliterations, and translations into English.

The Guardian 1st August 2020
    The aim of Komitas: Divine Liturgy (Delos), sung by the Latvian Radio Choir, conducted by Sigvards Kļava, is to make this haunting, radiant music performable in concert, as well as within ritual.