And here they are, a male chorus of 80 members, with nearly 75 minutes of the Swedish composer's music.
I am sure the music of Alfvén features often in their repertoire, but it is not too often we see a whole choral program dedicated to only his music.
Hugo Alfvén's choral pieces are generally uncomplicated, sometimes folksong based, fully Romantic partsongs. On this program, there is a mix of lusty drinking and patriotic songs paired with lyrical songs of ardor. It is more often in the latter, such as in Aftonen and Vaggvisa, where Alfvén's harmonies contain little unexpected twists.
The chorus sings 24 numbers, while in the middle of the program, tenor Claes-Håkan Ahnsjö sings six solo numbers with piano. Those expecting a full choral album might be surprised by the 15-plus minutes of solo vocal items, although they are sung well enough. Ahnsjö joins in another five songs alongside the men's chorus.
Aside from that, the Orphei Drängar are a hearty, virile sounding men's chorus, and director Robert Sund makes sure their musical expressions are fully formed, never leaving the listener unsatisfied. The BIS physical media provides all of the song texts with English translations, a welcome treat.
Soloists
Claes-Håkan Ahnsjö, tenor
Ensembles
Orphei Drängar
Robert Sund, conductor
Label: BIS
Year: 1993
Timing: 74.02
Thinking this was a completely choral-based program, color me surprised when six of the numbers were Swedish art songs for solo tenor and piano.
The rest are a cappella male-choir partsongs, each piece with their own mood and atmosphere.
The Orphei Drängar are excellent, carrying on a tradition, of which, Hugo Alfvén had his hand in shaping.
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