Howells: Hymnus Paradisi / Sir Patrick Spens

Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative choral masterpieces of Herbert Howells with this captivating album, featuring two of his most significant works: "Hymnus Paradisi" and "Sir Patrick Spens." Released in 2007, this album showcases Howells' deep musical prowess and his ability to convey both the sublime and the dramatic through choral and orchestral arrangements.

"Hymnus Paradisi," composed between 1936 and 1938, is a deeply personal work inspired by the tragic loss of Howells' son, Michael, to polio in 1935. This choral masterpiece, scored for soprano and tenor soloists, mixed chorus, and orchestra, is considered one of the high points of 20th-century British choral music. The work is a testament to Howells' ability to blend liturgical elements with deeply personal expression, resulting in a piece that is both moving and transcendent.

Complementing "Hymnus Paradisi" is "Sir Patrick Spens," a maritime cantata that Howells first set in 1917. This work, featuring a solo baritone, choir, and orchestra, showcases Howells' early choral writing style, which nods to the influences of Stanford and Vaughan Williams. The cantata's vivid tone painting and dramatic narrative provide a striking contrast to the more contemplative "Hymnus Paradisi."

The album features the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and the Bach Choir, conducted by David Hill, delivering a dedicated and eloquent performance. The coupling of these two works offers a comprehensive exploration of Howells' choral and orchestral genius, making it a valuable addition to any classical music collection. With a duration of approximately one hour and five minutes, this album is a rich and rewarding listening experience for fans of choral music and those discovering the works of Herbert Howells for the first time.