Howells: Requiem; St Paul's & Gloucester Services etc.

Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative choral works of Herbert Howells with this exquisite collection, released on Hyperion in 2012. This album showcases Howells' mastery of liturgical music, featuring two of his most celebrated evening services: the Gloucester Service and the St. Paul's Service. These settings of the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis are renowned for their elegance and depth, reflecting Howells' deep spiritual sensitivity and musical genius.

The centerpiece of the album is Howells' poignant Requiem, a work composed in response to the tragic loss of his son Michael. This a cappella masterpiece is a testament to Howells' ability to convey profound grief and consolation through music. The Requiem is complemented by other significant works, including the hauntingly beautiful "Take Him, Earth, for Cherishing," a motet written in memory of President John F. Kennedy, and the serene "Salve Regina."

The album also includes a variety of anthems and hymns, such as "A Hymn for St. Cecilia" and "All My Hope on God Is Founded," arranged by John Rutter. Each piece is performed with exquisite precision and sensitivity by The Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge, under the direction of Stephen Layton. The ensemble's rich, resonant voices bring out the full beauty and complexity of Howells' compositions, making this album a treasure for lovers of choral music.

Herbert Howells, a prominent figure in mid-twentieth-century music, was deeply influenced by the tragedies of his time, including the loss of friends in World War I and the personal tragedy of his son's death. This album reflects his unique ability to transform personal and historical pain into music of enduring beauty and consolation. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Howells' work or a newcomer to his music, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Herbert Norman Howells, born in 1892, was a towering figure in 20th-century English music, renowned for his profound contributions to Anglican church music. As a composer, organist, and teacher, Howells' work spans a wide range of genres, including orchestral, chamber, piano, and vocal music. His choral compositions, in particular, are celebrated for their atmospheric beauty and emotional depth, with his Carol Anthems being a standout example. Howells' musical journey began under the tutelage of Dr. Herbert Brewer at Gloucester Cathedral, where he studied alongside future stars like Ivor Novello and Ivor Gurney. His career took him to the Royal College of Music and eventually to St. John's College, Cambridge, where he served as the Acting Organist during World War II. Howells' legacy endures through his extensive discography and the Herbert Howells Trust, which supports young musicians and promotes his enduring musical heritage. His compositions, characterized by a distinctly English romantic style, continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.