Gregorian: The Masters of Modern Chant

Gregorian is a German musical project that fuses ancient Gregorian chant with contemporary pop and rock songs. Founded by producer Frank Peterson, the ensemble has achieved global success, selling millions of albums worldwide and topping charts across Europe with their unique atmospheric sound.

Early career

The project was initiated in 1991 by Frank Peterson, a former collaborator with Enigma. Peterson's vision was to create a bridge between medieval monastic music and modern popular culture. The early work involved a collective of classically trained singers, often performing in hooded robes to maintain an anonymous, monastic aesthetic.

Breakthrough

Gregorian's major breakthrough came with the 1999 album Masters of Chant. This release, under the Edel label, systematically applied the group's formula to well-known rock and pop hits, creating a surprisingly accessible and commercially viable product. The album achieved multi-platinum status in several European countries, firmly establishing their signature style.

Key tracks

Moment of Peace - This original composition featuring Sarah Brightman became an anthem for the project and a staple on new age and classical crossover charts.

Sounds of Silence - Their chant-driven cover of the Simon & Garfunkel classic exemplified their ability to transform iconic folk-rock into atmospheric spiritual music.

Join Me - A cover of the HIM song, this track demonstrated Gregorian's reach into modern gothic and alternative rock genres.

Voyage Voyage - Their interpretation of this 1980s French pop hit by Desireless showed the versatility of their concept across languages and eras.

Losing My Religion - Transforming R.E.M.'s alternative rock staple into a solemn chant highlighted the timeless and adaptable nature of their vocal arrangements.

The success of Masters of Chant spawned a highly successful series of sequels, extending into the 2020s. Gregorian has collaborated with numerous artists including Sarah Brightman, Amici Forever, and The Sisters of Oz. Their consistent album releases and extensive touring, particularly in Europe, have built a dedicated international fanbase for their ambient and choral fusion.

Fans of Gregorian's blend of classical vocal techniques and contemporary songbooks may also appreciate the epic soundscapes of Enigma, which shares foundational production DNA. The classical crossover appeal is similar to that of Andrea Bocelli, who operates in a parallel genre space. For a more rock-oriented choral approach, listeners might explore The Monks Choir. The meditative, atmospheric quality can also be found in the work of Era, another project in the ethno-electronic genre.

The music of Gregorian fits seamlessly into the playlists of classic FM stations specializing in new age and ambient music, as well as online radio streams dedicated to classical crossover and chill-out genres. Their distinctive sound provides a contemplative alternative on various independent music radio stations seeking a sophisticated auditory experience.

Listeners can discover the unique catalog of Gregorian through the radio stations featured on onairium.com, where their transformative covers and original chant compositions are regularly featured in programming designed for relaxation and reflection.