Dithyramb

Efrem I. Podgaits (b. 1949) is a prolific composer of works in many genres, with a special emphasis on music for treble and children's choirs. In 2007, the "Vesna" Children's Choir from Moscow won the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing for their performance of "Dithyramb"--which is defined as a Greek choral chant of wild and passionate character. The text of this particular "Dithyramb" is sacred--"Gloria in excelsis Deo! Osanna in excelsis!"--while the musical setting is certainly exalted, exciting, and vibrant. An extraordinary program piece for an accomplished treble or women's choir!