Britten: A.M.D.G, Hymn to St Cecilia, A Boy Was Born & A Shepherd's Carol

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Benjamin Britten's choral masterpieces with this exquisite collection, featuring some of his most celebrated works. Released in 1988 by Warner Classics, this album showcases Britten's unparalleled ability to blend intricate composition with profound spiritual themes.

The album opens with "A Boy Was Born," a festive and joyous piece that sets the tone for the collection. This early work by Britten is a delightful exploration of the nativity theme, filled with lively variations and a sense of childlike wonder. Following this, "Hymn to St. Cecilia" stands as a testament to Britten's deep connection to the patron saint of music, with a text by W.H. Auden that Britten himself set to music. This piece is a powerful and moving choral work that highlights Britten's mastery of the genre.

"Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam" (A.M.D.G.) is a lesser-known but equally captivating work, featuring a series of prayers and meditations that reflect Britten's spiritual depth. This piece, which Britten initially removed from his catalogue, offers a rare glimpse into his early compositions and his evolving style.

The album concludes with "A Shepherd's Carol," a charming and pastoral piece that rounds out this collection of Britten's choral gems. The performances are brought to life by the Choristers of St. Paul's Cathedral, the London Sinfonietta Chorus, and the London Sinfonietta Voices, all conducted by the esteemed Terry Edwards. This ensemble brings a level of precision and passion that does justice to Britten's intricate compositions.

Whether you are a longtime admirer of Benjamin Britten or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a comprehensive and enchanting journey through some of his most significant choral pieces. The blend of festive joy, spiritual reflection, and pastoral beauty makes this a timeless addition to any classical music collection.

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.