Howells: St Paul's Service & Other Works

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant sounds of St. Paul's Cathedral with this exquisite collection of works by Herbert Howells. Released in 1988, this album showcases the renowned composer's mastery of choral and organ music, performed by the esteemed St. Paul's Cathedral Choir under the direction of John Scott, with Christopher Dearnley at the organ.

The centerpiece of the album is Howells' celebrated "St. Paul's Service," a profound and moving setting of the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis, composed specifically for the unique acoustics of St. Paul's Cathedral. This service is complemented by a selection of other works that highlight Howells' distinctive style and deep spiritual insight.

The album opens with the "Collegium Regale Service," a set of choral pieces that demonstrate Howells' skill in blending traditional liturgical texts with modern harmonic language. The "6 Pieces for Organ" and "Psalm-Preludes Set 2" offer a glimpse into Howells' organ writing, characterized by its lyrical melodies and intricate counterpoint. The "4 Anthems" provide further examples of Howells' choral writing, with texts drawn from the Psalms and other biblical sources.

Throughout the album, the St. Paul's Cathedral Choir's rich, blended sound and precise execution bring Howells' music to life, while Christopher Dearnley's organ playing adds depth and resonance. Whether you're a longtime fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and uplifting 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.