Benjamin Britten: The Canticles

Dive into the profound and evocative world of Benjamin Britten's "The Canticles" with this exquisite 2013 recording, released by Signum Records. This album showcases Britten's five Canticles, each a masterclass in choral and vocal composition, performed by the talented tenor Ben Johnson and accompanied by the skilled pianist James Baillieu. Recorded in April 2012 at the renowned Maida Vale Studio 2 in London, this collection offers a intimate and powerful exploration of Britten's unique musical language.

Spanning just over 55 minutes, the album features a diverse range of texts and themes, from the intimate love poem of "My Beloved is Mine" to the dramatic biblical narrative of "Abraham and Isaac," and the evocative war poetry of "Still Falls the Rain." Each Canticle is a distinct journey, yet together they form a cohesive and compelling whole, reflecting Britten's deep engagement with both sacred and secular texts.

Britten's Canticles are not just standalone works but are deeply connected to his operatic output, as noted by Humphrey Carpenter in his biography of the composer. This recording offers a unique opportunity to explore these connections and to appreciate the breadth and depth of Britten's musical vision.

From the haunting beauty of "The Journey of the Magi" to the surreal and haunting "The Death of Saint Narcissus," this album is a testament to Britten's enduring genius and his ability to inspire and captivate audiences. Whether you're a longtime fan of Britten's music or a newcomer to his work, this recording of "The Canticles" is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Benjamin Britten, a titan of 20th-century British music, is celebrated for his profound contributions to opera, choral, and orchestral compositions. Born in Lowestoft, Suffolk, in 1913, Britten began his musical journey at the tender age of six, with his first compositions published during his student years. His operatic works, such as the hauntingly powerful "Peter Grimes" and the poignant "Billy Budd," have earned him a place among the most prominent figures in modern opera, often drawing comparisons to Ralph Vaughan Williams. Britten's repertoire spans a wide range of genres, from enchanting operas to heartfelt choral masterpieces and orchestral gems like "The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra." His emotive and accessible compositions continue to captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest British composers of his generation. Beyond his composing prowess, Britten was also a skilled conductor and pianist, and he served as the President of the Society of Recorder Players from 1958 until his passing in 1976.