As a Francophile, oh, how I wish I could visit France this summer! But, alas, that is simply not to be. And the Voices of Ascension has never recorded France’s national anthem, La Marseillaise. But I think this brilliant, grandiose movement from Berlioz’s immense Te Deum will suffice as a celebration of Bastille Day! Although it is a sacred hymn of praise, it has much of the characteristics of a grand ceremonial nationalistic piece, with prominent use of the many, many brass instruments used in this live performance. We were almost 400 musicians assembled for this piece – the closing event of the 100th Anniversary National Convention of the American Guild of Organists. It took place in New York’s Cathedral of St. John the Divine. Vive la France!

– Dennis Keene

HECTOR BERLIOZ “Christe, Rex Gloriae” from Te Deum

Voices of Ascension Chorus and Orchestra
Dennis Keene, conductor
Mark Kruczek, organ

from the Delos recording Berlioz: Te Deum ℗ 1997 Delos
The singers in this performance are represented by the American Guild of Musical Artists, AFL-CIO.