Choral Images - Sir Michael Tippett - Michael Tippett

"Choral Images" is a captivating collection of Michael Tippett's choral works, showcasing the composer's mastery of the genre and his enduring influence on British choral music. This album, released in February 2007 under the Signum Records label, features a diverse range of pieces composed between the late 1930s and early 1960s, performed by the renowned BBC Singers under the direction of Stephen Cleobury.

The album opens with the lively "Dance, Clarion Air" and "Plebs Angelica," followed by the poignant "The Weeping Babe." One of the highlights is Tippett's setting of the "Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis," a stunning example of his ability to blend traditional choral textures with innovative harmonic language. The album also includes a selection of folk song arrangements from the British Isles, each one a gem in its own right, and the evocative "Over The Sea To Skye."

Tippett's deep engagement with spiritual and social themes is evident in the inclusion of five Negro Spirituals from his oratorio "A Child Of Our Time." These powerful settings, including "Steal Away" and "Deep River," demonstrate Tippett's ability to infuse traditional material with profound emotional resonance.

The album also features some of Tippett's most celebrated individual choral works, such as the ethereal "The Windhover" and the haunting "Lullaby." Each piece is a testament to Tippett's unique voice and his enduring contribution to the choral repertoire. With a total duration of over an hour, this album is a comprehensive introduction to Tippett's choral output, expertly produced by Michael Emery and engineered by Tony Wass. Whether you're a longtime fan of Tippett's music or a newcomer to his work, "Choral Images" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Michael Tippett was a pioneering English composer who left an indelible mark on 20th-century classical music. Emerging during the tumultuous years of the Second World War, Tippett's bold and innovative compositions quickly established him as a leading figure in British music, often mentioned in the same breath as his contemporary Benjamin Britten. His works, such as the profound oratorio "A Child of Our Time" and the enchanting opera "The Midsummer Marriage," showcase his unique voice and unyielding creativity. Tippett's music is a testament to his fearless imagination, often pushing the boundaries of what performers and audiences expected. His neoclassical style, while distinctly English, stands apart from his contemporaries, making his compositions instantly recognizable. Beyond his musical contributions, Tippett was also a passionate advocate for peace, serving as the President of the Peace Pledge Union. His legacy continues to inspire through the Michael Tippett Musical Foundation, which supports the music of future generations.