Experience the sublime beauty of sacred choral music with "Bairstow, Harris & Stanford: Choral Works," a captivating album featuring the renowned Westminster Abbey Choir under the baton of James O'Donnell. Released in May 2019 on the prestigious Hyperion label, this album is a testament to the choir's exceptional artistry and the rich choral traditions of the British Isles.
Spanning a little over an hour, this collection showcases the works of three prominent composers: Edward Bairstow, William Henry Harris, and Charles Villiers Stanford. The album opens with Bairstow's evocative "Blessed City, Heavenly Salem" and includes his "Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence" and the poignant "The Lamentation." Harris's powerful "Bring Us, O Lord God" and Stanford's majestic "Evening Service in A, Op. 12" are also highlights, demonstrating the composers' unique voices and the choir's versatility.
The album is expertly accompanied by organist Peter Holder, whose skillful playing enhances the choral performances and adds depth to the overall sound. The recording, made in the acoustically superb setting of Westminster Abbey, captures the choir's pure tones and harmonious blend, providing an immersive listening experience.
"Bairstow, Harris & Stanford: Choral Works" is an essential addition to any classical music lover's collection, offering a profound exploration of sacred choral repertoire. The album's meticulous production and the choir's outstanding performances make it a standout release in the genre.
Blessed City, Heavenly SalemEdward Bairstow, Ruihan Bao-Smith, Peter Holder, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Let All Mortal Flesh Keep SilenceEdward Bairstow, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Mark Dobell, Robert Macdonald, James O'Donnell
The LamentationEdward Bairstow, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Peter Holder
Bring Us, O Lord GodWilliam Harris, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Strengthen Ye the Weak HandsWilliam Harris, Peter Holder, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Julian Stocker
Faire Is the HeavenWilliam Harris, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Flourish for an OccasionWilliam Harris, Peter Holder
Bible Songs, Op. 113: VIa. A Song of WisdomCharles Villiers Stanford, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Bible Songs, Op. 113: VIb. Hymn. O for a Closer Walk with GodCharles Villiers Stanford, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Peter Holder
For Lo, I Raise Up, Op. 145Charles Villiers Stanford, Simon Wall, Peter Holder, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell, James Thomson
Evening Service in A, Op. 12, Pt. 3: I. MagnificatCharles Villiers Stanford, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
Evening Service in A, Op. 12, Pt. 3: II. Nunc dimittisCharles Villiers Stanford, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Peter Holder, James O'Donnell
Festal Communion Service in B-Flat, Op. 128: I. Gloria in excelsisCharles Villiers Stanford, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell, Thomas Byrne, Peter Holder
James O'Donnell is a renowned musician specialising in choral music, with a particular focus on medieval, requiem, and Gregorian chant genres. His work showcases a deep understanding and appreciation of these traditional forms, creating a unique and captivating sound.
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James O'Donnell
