"Celtic Inspirations" is a captivating choral album by the Belfast Cathedral Choir, released in 2006 under Priory Records. This enchanting collection of 22 tracks offers a blend of traditional Celtic melodies and sacred choral works, making it a delightful exploration of both spiritual and cultural heritage. The album spans a duration of approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, providing a rich and immersive listening experience.
The Belfast Cathedral Choir, accompanied by Philip Stopford, delivers a stunning array of pieces that range from well-known hymns and carols to lesser-known gems. The album features arrangements by notable composers such as John Rutter and Philip Stopford himself, adding a layer of depth and sophistication to the performances. Standout tracks include the hauntingly beautiful "Be Thou My Vision," the uplifting "You Raise Me Up," and the festive "Wexford Carol," showcasing the choir's versatility and mastery.
"Celtic Inspirations" is not just a collection of songs but a testament to the choir's skill and the rich musical traditions they represent. Whether you are a fan of choral music, Celtic melodies, or simply appreciate beautiful vocal performances, this album is sure to resonate with you. The Belfast Cathedral Choir's pristine vocals and the thoughtful arrangements make "Celtic Inspirations" a timeless addition to any music lover's collection.
(C) 2006 Priory Records(P) 2006 Priory Records
Tracks
Be Thou My Vision (Arr. P. Stopford for Choir, Flute & Piano)Traditional, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Philip Stopford
Draw Nigh and Take the BodyEric Thiman, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber, Philip Stopford
As Now the Sun's Declining RaysCharles Villiers Stanford, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber, Philip Stopford
4 Intermezzi, Op. 189: No. 4, Londonderry Air (Arr. for Flute)Charles Villiers Stanford, Priory Records
Expectans expectaviCharles Wood, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber, Philip Stopford
Belfast Centenary Eucharist: I. KyriePhilip Stopford, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber
Belfast Centenary Eucharist: II. GloriaPhilip Stopford, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber
Belfast Centenary Eucharist: III. SanctusPhilip Stopford, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber
Belfast Centenary Eucharist: IV. BenedictusPhilip Stopford, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber
Belfast Centenary Eucharist: V. Agnus DeiPhilip Stopford, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber
Wexford Carol (Arr. J. Rutter for Choir)Traditional, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Philip Stopford
Who Are We That Stand and Sing?Ralph Vaughan Williams, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber, Philip Stopford
Psalm 23 "The Lord Is My Shepherd"Harry Grindle, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Philip Stopford
Requiem: III. Pie JesuJohn Rutter, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber, Philip Stopford
Horsley "There Is a Green Hill Far Away"William Horsley, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber, Philip Stopford
Londonderry Air "O Christ the Same Through All Our Story's Pages"Traditional, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber, Philip Stopford
A Prayer of Saint PatrickJohn Rutter, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Philip Stopford
Bi 'Îosa Im ChroíseTraditional, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Philip Stopford
You Raise Me UpRolf Løvland, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Philip Stopford
Wexford Carol (Arr. J. Rutter for Flute)Traditional, Priory Records
St. Patrick "I Bind unto Myself Today"Charles Villiers Stanford, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Ian Barber, Philip Stopford
An Irish BlessingJames E. Moore, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Philip Stopford