20th Centuary Choral Works

Advantages: beautifully composed, orchestrated and performed
Disadvantages: not for the "sing-a-long" musician

...yes thats right folks! Gerald Finzi's music can be described as many things, but genius must be one of them. Gerald Finzi was a British composer in the early 20th Century. Though mostly known for his choral works and hymns, his orchestral pieces give him standing among the all-time musical greats. With an incredible understanding of counterpoint and harmony all the music is atmospheric and paints scenes of true England: rolling hills and valleys, greenery and wildlife. It is true, that a musician's world can be portrayed through his work. The clarinet works, performed by Robert plane, are masterfully directed and performed, keeping close to the original scores even throughout the cadenzas and most intricate of passages. This is the album I put on for stress-busting, though its not for the sing-along istener (no lyrics!), nor... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Some outstanding works, a balanced album
Disadvantages: None

...The first CD in this fine collection of Stanford's choral works, this compilation delivers well. This collection focuses on the first period of his choral work, 'Cambridge Years'. Dominating the tracklisting are settings of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis. Particularly outstanding are those in B flat and F. You cannot fail to be moved by either the depth of bass in the Nunc Dimittis of the former, or by the triumphal crescendoes in the Magnificat of the latter that demonstrate this composer's temendous ability to bring words to life. The other settings, in E flat and A, are no less majestic. However, it is perhaps hard to appreciate these as one should when they are found on the same disc as those aforementioned. The rest of the CD provides a good contrast to the Evening settings. The anthems and motets provide for a more rounded view... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Well-balance compilation, excellent artistry, well-recorded
Disadvantages: None

...Charles Stanford is one of the great English choral composers and this third volume of his sacred works continues to pay great homage to this. Sung by the choir of Winchester Cathedral the musical capability of the artists is not in doubt, and they do great justice to the works. Throughout these pieces the organ accompaniment of Stephen Farr is exemplary, and well balanced with the choral sound. This compilation contains a nice mix of tracks. As well as the Evening Services, there are a number of anthems and several extended pieces (St. Patrick's Breastplate, For Lo, I Raise Up). The Evening Services in C and B flat reflect Stanford's great ability to bring life to the magnificat and nunc dimittis. With such frequently sung words this is a difficult enough achievement, yet here we hear voices that soar with dynamism and grace... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful