Ljubica Marić - Threshold Of Dream (1996 compi, rec. 1958-1996)

 

Career-spanning overview of Yugoslavian/Serbian composer Ljubica Marić (1909-2003), whose style was significantly influenced by Byzantine church music.  Her earliest work is represented by the very last track on this compilation, a violin sonata written in 1928.

Most of Disc 1 is taken up by works in Marić's "Music of Octoecha" series from the 50s and 60s, inspired by the eight modes used by the Byzantine Orthodox Church.  Some of the recordings occasionally show their vintage (or perhaps inept remastering) in brief dropouts, so don't worry, it's not your headphones, but are all good enough to let this solemn, powerful music shine through, especially on the lengthy Byzantine Concerto.  The cantata that gives this collection its title is another highlight, using the fifth mode of the Octoechos and surrealist verses by the poet Laza Kostić.

 

Marić's late work is represented by the trio piece Torso from 1996, so titled as it was intended to be "reduced to its core".  Disc 2 then starts with what was the highlight of the whole collection for me, Songs Of Space for choir and orchestra, which takes its text from epitaphs found on Bogomil tombstones.  An orchestral work from the 50s and string work from the 80s round out this great introduction to Marić.  Recommended especially for anyone who likes Pärt & Górecki at their most invigorating.

Disc 1 link

Disc 2 link

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