Finzi: Earth and Air and Rain / To A Poet / By Footpath and Stile

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gerald Finzi's vocal music with this captivating album, released on Naxos in 2006. Finzi, a British composer with a deep appreciation for poetry, offers a collection of songs that are as insightful as they are melodious. The album features three distinct song cycles: "Earth and Air and Rain," "To a Poet," and "By Footpath and Stile," each showcasing Finzi's unique ability to translate the essence of poetry into music.

"Earth and Air and Rain" is a setting of ten poems by Thomas Hardy, demonstrating Finzi's uncanny sympathy and insight into Hardy's verse. The cycle is followed by "To a Poet," a collection of songs that further exhibit Finzi's skill in setting various poets to music. The album concludes with "By Footpath and Stile," Finzi's first published work, which includes six songs that capture the beauty of the English countryside.

With a duration of 71 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Finzi's vocal music. His compositions are marked by a deep understanding of the texts he sets, resulting in songs that are both musically engaging and poetically profound. Whether you're a fan of classical music, poetry, or simply appreciate the art of song, this album is sure to delight and inspire.