Orff: Carmini Burana
Pentatone, 2026
9/10
Listen to Orff: Carmini Burana
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra and conductor Jader Bignamini captured Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana live, where a large presence and plenty of theatrics surround the 25 tracks.
The booming ambience of “Fortuna Imperatrix Mundi” starts with loud percussion and animated voices, though some soft gestures enter as well, and “I. Primo vere” follows with 3 segments that use Andrzej Filonczyk’s expressive baritone amid the rich keys and layered instrumentation.
Entering the middle, the lively “II. In Taberna” radiates bright strings and colorful brass alongside the powerful singing, while “III. Cour d’amours” enlists the Detroit Opera Youth Chorus, where young voices guide the cinematic mood that’s unpredictable and upbeat.
Residing near the end, the festive “Blanzifor et Helena” blends the harmonizing voices with dense dynamics from the orchestra, and “Fortuna Imperatrix Mundi” exits with a tense, operatic presence that’s loud and commanding.
In addition to Filonczyk, Chen Reiss’ soprano and Reginald Mobley’s countertenor add much appeal to this extraordinary performance, where an emotional component and a grand demeanor makes an indelible impression.
Travels well with: NYFOS- My Brother’s Keeper; Dave Soldier- Vipers At The Onyx