Thiruvasakam: A Classical Crossover
This album is a classical crossover composed and orchestrated by Ilaiyaraja. Featuring Budapest Symphony Orchestra conducted by Lazslo Kovacs. English lyric by Stephen Schwartz (Academy Award Winner)and sound engineer is Richard King (Grammy Award Winner)
Thiruvasakam
A collection of classical hymns on Lord Shiva written by the 9th century Tamil poet, sage, Saint Manickavasagar. It was translated into English by G.U. Pope in the 19th century. Thiruvasakam by Ilaiyaraja is an unique attempt to present select verses from this work in the oratorio musical form, synthesizing ideas from both the Indian and Western classical traditions.
Ilaiyaraja
Ilaiyaraja is considered a phenomenon for many reasons. He has composed over 4000 songs and background music score for more than 800 Indian films in 8 languages. Then there is the pace and method, which have become legendary. Ilaiyaraja’s compositions outside of films have also greatly enhanced his reputation, which peaked in 1993, when he recorded a western classical symphony with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of John Scott. The symphony was written in less than a month. Above all, there is the outstanding quality of the music itself. Although his musical sensibility is anchored to a bedrock of recognizable genres '" Indian folk, Western Classical, and Indian Classical '" he has an uncanny ability to separate and unify these genres at will.
Laszlo Kovacs
Hungary’s best known conductor. Has conducted more than 2500 concerts in 21 countries, Including the London Royal Philharmonic and the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra.
Budapest Symphony Orchestra
A 100 year old group and the only complete professional orchestra of Hungary. All its 84 players are graduates from Music Academies.
Richard King
One of the best sound engineers in the world. Recorded and mixed five Grammy Award-winning productions.
Stephen Schwartz
Wrote lyrics for the double Grammy Award-winning ‘Godspell’. The number one playwright in Broadway. Works include “Pocahontas” and the ”Prince of Egypt”
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