Time is endless features music from Lithuanian composer Vytautas Miškinis. His music, while bearing identifiable Lithuanian roots, is a synthesis of different influences carefully shaped and moulded with an experienced understanding of choral orchestration. The overall effect has been described as ‘luscious, radiant and exotic’. Like many other Baltic composers of the same generation, Miškinis takes an essentially diatonic approach but with much overlaying of harmonies and coloured cluster-chords. What makes the music unmistakably Lithuanian is the influence of two folk-song genres. The overall effect is luscious, radiant and exotic. This music is passionately performed by these talented young singers and sensitively recorded in a generous church acoustic.
His music has a timeless and highly atmospheric quality. Textures and nuances are used with great perception … the effect on the listener is best summed up as being one of 'contemplative meditation'. Rupert Gough has wrought wonders with his Egham choristers. Their tone glows warmly, with a firm bass-line and bell-like top soprano and tenor lines. Pitching is spot-on and climaxes are beautifully controlled … the sumptuous swimming acoustic of St Alban's, Holborn is perfect for this delicious music. (Gramophone)
Vytautas Miškinis might be the best thing to happen to choral societies since Morten Lauridsen … the Choir of Royal Holloway sing with excellent intonation and blend (International Record Review)
The clarity and translucence of Royal Holloway's young voices, expertly trained and throroughly prepared for this demanding job, ideally suits Miškinis' infinitely subtle art. Gough and his choristers are outstanding … exquisite in their hypnotic contrasts and folk-like purity (Classic FM Magazine)
Hyperion, 2010
St. Alban’s, Holborn, London
Producer: Mark Brown
Engineer: Julian Millard
Released: November 2010
