Vivier: Rêves D`Un Marco Polo Kopernikus , opéra rituel de mort in two parts (1980)
Prologue pour un Marco Polo ‘Marco Polo's Last Will and Testament – Vision of Zipangu' (1981) This is a generous 2-DVD presentation of the work of the cult Canadian composer Claude Vivier (1948-83) who died young in a self sought murder/suicide, so it is suggested, at the hands of a male prostitute who stabbed him in his flat. In the extensive introductions Pierre Audi, who has added a 'theatrical score' to the musical ones, tells how when he was running the Almeida Festival in London he became 'hooked' on this one-time obscure composer. Vivier was in love with death, a benign 'world of magicians' to which he had a romantic attachment that permeates his "emotional, ecstatic and anti-intellectual" music. The "opera" Kopernikus tells a mystical story in which famous figures of the past are briefly mentioned, but there is no coherent narrative line and although the French words are sub-titled, much of the text is in invented language, and special vocal effects are called for... It is the music which will engage you - or not. The setting (in a converted disused gas container in Amsterdam) is spectacular, and you see the conversion of the building for this event taking place. I think this is a double DVD to explore in stages. I would recommend one of the introductions, with rehearsal material, and then, perhaps, the second Act of the ritualistic Kopernicus (which has more continuous music). The second half brings together a sequence of disparate works, notable for a virtuoso piano piece Shiraz, which alternates hammering reminicent of one of the Stockhausen piano pieces, and sweet harmonies which bring to mind those of Messiaen. He had studied at Darmstadt with Stockhausen, and was admired by Ligeti. The performances of all the works are carefully rehearsed and given with conviction, with demanding stage performance by singers and musicians (costumed and on stage). The stratospheric soprano Claron McFadden (the airport controller from Flight) may be the most familiar performer. This is a one-off, unrepeatable opportunity to come to grips with Claude Vivier. A release worth considering but perhaps one to sample first. There is a short video-clip on the Opus Arte website, and a positive review plus a dozen and more intriguing screenshots at DVD Reviewer may tip the balance towards taking a chance.
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