Stanford: Sacred Choral Works, Vol. 3 > Reviews > A fine showcase of Stanford's great music

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Definitely a cut above the rest
Lyrics	Sublime
Quality and consistency of tracks	Flawless
Value for Money	Good

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

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

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 but with a clear air of reverence and sanctity. All choir parts are distinguishable (a tribute to both Stanford, and the sound quality of this compilation) and each contributes to a magnificant wholeness sound.
This clarity is to be found in all the other tracks as well.
This CD cannot really be considered on its own, it is part of a collection, and rightly so. As part of the collection it contributes well. On its own it cannot seek to do justice to Stanford's choral abilities, however, it provides a platform to showcase the breadth of his work.
Lovers of the Choral and Sacred music traditions should certainly consider this collection. For those who want to listen to more of Stanford it is a must-buy.