The Akathistos Hymn – a massive work of the Byzantine Rite – an intensely beautiful set of melismatic chant in praise of the Virgin Mary, with multi-layered text rich in imagery. Thought to have been composed in the 6th Century, its poetic genres hint at even earlier liturgies of the Church. An epic work of Byzantine Art, the Akathistos Hymn transcends the everyday world and transports the spirit into a state of rapture.
“It is unlikely there is any other body, at least in this country, making the same fascinating sounds with such skill, insight and ability to move the spirit as Jouissance.” The Age
“…ethereal music… an engrossing experience.” The Australian
Akathistos Fragments
A new CD by Jouissance released through the ABC in 2005.
Deborah Kayser – soprano;
Jerzy Kozlowski – bass-baritone;
Anne Norman shakuhachi;
Peter Neville percussion;
Nick Tsiavos double bass/artistic director
Recorded 8-9 July 2004
Iwaki Auditorium, Australian Broadcasting Corporation¹s Southbank Centre, Melbourne
ABC CLASSICS ABC 476 8064 [78.59]
Akathistos Fragments may be purchased through ABC shops or online through ABC or Buywell