Andy

Vespers

Here is a piece from the Rachmaninoff Vespers that I performed in high school in a group of local All-State choristers we called the "nine-tet." It has to be one of the most ethereal and beautiful pieces written (that goes for the entirety of the Vespers) and I know some of you will think so too. I would rate this recording as a "must have" in my collection, and am happy to share more detailed info about it if prompted. This recording is not from my high school group, I should probably add. In fact, many have a problem with the conducting style exhibited on this album, stating it is nowhere near authentic to the original version. I am of the opinion that this version is incredible and conveys its message clearly, thus negating the necessity to maintain absolute historical accuracy.

Bogoroditsye Devo, raduisya,
Blagodatnaya Mariye,
Gospod s Toboyu.
Blagoslovenna Ty v zhenakh,
I blagosloven plod chreva Tvoyevo,
Yako Spasa rodila yesi dush nashikh.

Translation:

Rejoice, O Vergin Theotokos,
Mary full of grace.
The Lord is with Thee.
Blessed art Thou among women,
And blessed is the fruit of Thy womb,
For Thou has borne the Savior of our souls.