"Anthems from Salisbury" by the Salisbury Cathedral Choir is a captivating choral album released in 1986 under the Meridian Records label. This 51-minute collection features nine enchanting tracks, showcasing the choir's exceptional vocal prowess and the rich acoustic ambiance of Salisbury Cathedral. The album spans a variety of choral genres, offering a diverse listening experience that highlights both traditional and contemporary compositions.
The album opens with "Ave verum corpus," a soulful rendition that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. It includes works by renowned composers such as Henry Purcell's "Rejoice in the Lord Alway, Z.49," Johann Sebastian Bach's "Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben, BWV 147," and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's "Ave verum corpus, K.618." Each piece is performed with precision and passion, demonstrating the choir's versatility and the conductor's skillful direction.
Notable tracks include "I was Glad," a joyful anthem that showcases the choir's dynamic range, and "How Lovely are Thy Dwelling Place," a serene and uplifting piece that highlights the choir's harmonious blend. The album also features "5 Pieces for Organ, Op. 104: No. 1, Entrée Pontificale," adding a solo organ performance to the choral repertoire.
"Anthems from Salisbury" is a testament to the enduring beauty of choral music and the timeless appeal of Salisbury Cathedral Choir. Whether you're a seasoned choral enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that celebrates the art of choral singing.