Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of sacred choral music with "Canticles from St Paul's: Walmisley, Stanford, Wood, Tippett etc." by the renowned St. Paul's Cathedral Choir. Released in 2014 on the prestigious Hyperion label, this album is a testament to the choir's exceptional artistry and the timeless beauty of the canticles, which are the musical centerpieces of the Anglican liturgy.
Spanning a diverse range of compositions, this collection features works by Charles Wood, Herbert Howells, Charles Villiers Stanford, and Michael Tippett, among others. The album showcases the choir's versatility and mastery, from the soaring harmonies of Stanford's "Magnificat and Nunc dimittis" to the contemplative elegance of Walmisley's "Evening Service in D Minor." Each piece is performed with meticulous attention to detail, bringing out the sacred and precious nature of the texts and melodies.
Under the direction of Andrew Carwood and with Simon Johnson at the organ, the St. Paul's Cathedral Choir delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and spiritually uplifting. The album's duration of just over an hour offers a comprehensive journey through some of the most beloved and lesser-known works in the choral repertoire, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
Whether you are a seasoned fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, "Canticles from St Paul's" promises a deeply enriching experience. The album's blend of familiar and obscure pieces, combined with the choir's impeccable execution, ensures that each listen is a rewarding and inspiring journey into the world of sacred choral music.