Finzi: Young Man's Exhortation / Till Earth Outwears / Oh Fair To See

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gerald Finzi's vocal masterpieces with this captivating album, released on Naxos in 2007. This collection brings together three of Finzi's most celebrated song cycles, each a testament to his profound musical sensitivity and his deep connection to the poetry of Thomas Hardy. The album features the renowned tenor John Mark Ainsley and pianist Iain Burnside, whose performances breathe life into Finzi's evocative compositions.

The album opens with "A Young Man's Exhortation, Op. 14," a cycle that captures the youthful exuberance and introspection of Hardy's poetry. The ten songs in this cycle, ranging from the energetic "A Young Man's Exhortation" to the reflective "The Dance Continued," showcase Finzi's ability to translate the nuances of Hardy's verse into music of great depth and beauty.

Following this is "Till Earth Outwears, Op. 19a," a cycle that delves into themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. The seven songs in this set, including the poignant "Let Me Enjoy the Earth" and the haunting "At a Lunar Eclipse," offer a meditative journey through the human experience.

The album concludes with "Oh Fair to See, Op. 13b," a cycle that celebrates the beauty of nature and the fleeting moments of joy in life. The seven songs in this collection, from the tender "I Say 'I'll Seek Her Side'" to the bittersweet "Since We Loved," highlight Finzi's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of Finzi's finest vocal works. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Finzi's music or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.