Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gustav Holst's "The Cloud Messenger," a masterful choral-orchestral work that has long been overshadowed but is now brilliantly revived in this chamber version. Completed in 1910 after seven years of dedicated work, this piece is a testament to Holst's deep fascination with ancient Indian literature and mythology. Inspired by the epic poem "Meghadūta" by the Sanskrit poet Kālidāsa, "The Cloud Messenger" tells the poignant story of an exiled yaksha who sends a message of love to his distant wife via a passing cloud.
This album, released on Delphian Records, features a chamber version arranged by Joseph Fort, which lends the work a new intimacy and clarity while retaining its original grandeur. The Choir of King's College London and the Strand Ensemble, under the skilled direction of Joseph Fort, bring this rarely performed masterpiece to life with stunning precision and depth. The album also includes a selection of Holst's Five Partsongs, Op. 12, adding further richness to this collection.
With a duration of 58 minutes, this recording offers a captivating journey through Holst's late-romantic style, showcasing his unique ability to blend Western musical traditions with Eastern influences. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Holst's work, this album is a delightful addition to any collection, offering a fresh perspective on a neglected gem of the choral repertoire.
(C) 2020 Delphian Records LTD(P) 2020 Delphian Records LTD
Tracks
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Prelude - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: O thou, who com’st from Heaven’s king - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: In the city of the Great God - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Bringer of rain - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Rushing northward - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: See how all greet thee - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Behold the villages - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: As the rain descends - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Tarry not, O cloud, tarry not - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, Caitlin Goreing, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Tarry not, O cloud - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: And hark! - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Thou hast reached the snowy peaks - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: And see! The Great God himself - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Chorus (Moderato maestoso) – Vivace - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: When the dancers are weary - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Wait near her flower-covered window - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: The Message (I, the bringer of the rain) - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: 'Beloved!' - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Dream TrystGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Ye little birdsGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Her eyes the glow-worm lend theeGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Now is the month of MayingGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Come to meGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
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