"Around the Curve of the World" by Francis Grier is a captivating choral work that invites you into a world of rich musical storytelling. Commissioned to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the founding of Christchurch, New Zealand, this oratorio is a testament to Grier's compositional prowess and his ability to blend narrative with music seamlessly.
The album, released on SOMM Recordings in February 2014, spans a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, offering a substantial and immersive listening experience. Grier's work is a choral masterpiece, interweaving canticles, psalms, and narratives to create a cohesive and engaging musical journey. The piece is performed by the Canterbury Choral Society, with soloists including Lucy Hall and others, bringing the compositions to life with their powerful vocals.
"Around the Curve of the World" is not just a collection of tracks but a carefully crafted oratorio that tells a story through its music. The themes explored in the work are both profound and moving, reflecting the journey and experiences of the emigrants who founded Christchurch. The choral arrangements are intricate and beautifully layered, showcasing Grier's skill in creating a rich and dynamic soundscape.
For fans of choral music and those interested in the intersection of music and history, this album is a treasure trove. Francis Grier's ability to evoke emotion and tell a story through his compositions makes "Around the Curve of the World" a standout piece in the choral genre. Whether you're a seasoned listener of choral works or new to the genre, this album offers a compelling and enriching experience.
2014 SOMM Recordings2014 SOMM Recordings
Tracks
Around the Curve of the World: Canticle 1. Praise the Lord (Emigrant Woman, Chorus, Emigrant Man)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Daniel Norman, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Stephen Darlington, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 1. Now the Lord said unto Abraham (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: First Psalm. I rise in the morning (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 2. Behold, a sower went out to sow (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Canticle 1. The dry land is left behind (Chorus)Francis Grier, Stephen Darlington, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 3. Thus saith the Lord (John Godley, Charlotte Godley)Francis Grier, Paul Whelan, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Second Psalm. How deep are your oceans! (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 4. The ship was now in the midst (John Godley, Emigrant Woman)Francis Grier, Paul Whelan, Patricia Rozario, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Canticle 3. The sea teems with life (Chorus)Francis Grier, Stephen Darlington, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 5. Now therefore ye are not strangers (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Third Psalm. My breath lies quiet (Chorus)Francis Grier, Stephen Darlington, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford
Around the Curve of the World: Narrative 6. He is like the man (All)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Anne Schwanewilms, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Norman, Paul Whelan, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
Around the Curve of the World: Canticle 4. Praise to our God! (Chorus, Emigrant Woman, Emigrant Man)Francis Grier, Patricia Rozario, Daniel Norman, Oxford University Chamber Orchestra, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Oxford, Stephen Darlington
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