BORIS BLACHER (1903-1975): Der Großinquisitor, Op. 21.

Description: Written during the Second World War, this oratorio was based on Dostoyevsky's novel, "The Brothers Karamazov", illustrating Jesus's return to earth in 16th-century Seville. The depiction of the heretics burned to the glory of God could not be a clearer reflection of the fate of the Jews at the hands of the Nazis. Distinct from the other works in Blacher's oeuvre thanks to its seriousness and tonal harmony, Der Großinquisitor also contains elements that are typical of the composer's style, such as terse rhythms and seemingly aimless melodic lines. No libretto. Siegmund Nimsgern (baritone), Leipzig Radio Choir, Dresden Philharmonic; Herbert Kagel. Original 1988 Berlin Classics release.