Search - Zoltan Kodaly, Janos Ferencsik, Budapest Symphony Orchestra :: Budavári Te Deum & Missa Brevis

Kodály's reputation rests on a handful of orchestral music (Háry János and the Dances of Galánta), and on his world-famous work as a teacher. The main body of his music was choral, and because most of it is in Hungarian, it doesn't get performed too often outside of Hungary. These two large-scale religious works, however, deserve to be better known. They are every bit as fine as the very popular Psalmus hungaricus, and just as rewarding to sing and play. Kodály's study of folk song means that his music is always approachable, always fresh, and never outstays its welcome. These performances with native Hungarian performers are not likely to be bettered. --David Hurwitz