Exploring Hugo Distler's Christmas Narrative with Conductor Carsten Seyer-Hansen and Concert Clemens

In this video, we delve into the enchanting world of Hugo Distler's Christmas narrative, a hidden gem of sacred music. Conductor Carsten Seyer-Hansen, along with the remarkable Vocal Group Concert Clemens, takes us on a musical journey through this extraordinary composition.
Hugo Distler, born in Nuremberg in 1908, was not only a talented composer but also a devoted teacher of church music. His deep religious convictions led him to create music that would later become a precursor to the New German Church Music movement of the 1930s. However, during the Nazi regime, his compositions were unfairly labeled as "degenerate art." When he received conscription papers, he tragically took his own life. To this day, Distler's music remains relatively undiscovered outside of Germany, despite its profound beauty and significance.
Carsten Seyer-Hansen, the conductor extraordinaire, founded the award-winning vocal ensemble Concert Clemens in 1997. With 16 voices that have been praised for their pure and natural eloquence, this ensemble has become a leading force in Scandinavia's choral scene. Their versatility shines through in their diverse collaborations, exploring the harmonious intersection between jazz and classical music while delivering note-perfect interpretations of standard repertoire.
One of Denmark's finest tenors, Adam Riis, takes on the role of the evangelist, lending his captivating voice to this musical journey. Recorded in the DXD format by the Danish "Wizard of Sound," Preben Iwan, the resonant acoustics of Skt. Markus Kirken in Århus provide the perfect backdrop for this mesmerizing performance.
Throughout the narrative, you'll also hear the hauntingly beautiful choral "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen," which weaves its way through the story in ever-evolving harmonic colors.
Join us as we explore the musical legacy of Hugo Distler and experience the magic of Concert Clemens, conducted by the talented Carsten Seyer-Hansen, in this enchanting Christmas narrative.
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