Immerse yourself in the sacred and sublime with "John Blow: Anthems," a remarkable collection of choral works by one of the Restoration period's most distinguished composers, John Blow. Released in 1995 under the prestigious Hyperion label, this album is a testament to Blow's mastery of the anthem form, showcasing his profound understanding of vocal writing and his ability to evoke spiritual depth and musical beauty.
Spanning nearly two hours, this album features a selection of Blow's most revered anthems, performed with exquisite precision and devotion by the Winchester Cathedral Choir under the direction of David Hill. The ensemble's crystalline voices bring to life the intricate polyphony and rich harmonies that characterize Blow's compositions, offering a captivating journey through the sacred music of the late 17th century.
The album opens with "God Spake Sometime in Visions" and closes with "I Said in the Cutting Off of My Days," framing a diverse collection of anthems that explore themes of faith, hope, and divine communion. Each piece is a masterclass in choral writing, demonstrating Blow's innovative use of counterpoint, his sensitivity to text, and his ability to create moments of profound contemplation and exultation.
"John Blow: Anthems" is not just a collection of beautiful choral works; it is a historical and musical treasure, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of English sacred music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an enriching and spiritually uplifting experience. Recorded in the acoustically superb New Hall at Winchester College, the album's sound quality is exceptional, allowing every nuance of the choir's performance to shine through.
God Spake Sometime in Visions, Coronation Anthem for James IIJohn Blow, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
How Doth the City Sit SolitaryJohn Blow, Stephen Varcoe, Robin Blaze, Joseph Cornwell, David Hill, The Parley of Instruments
The Lord Is My ShepherdJohn Blow, David Hill, Donald Sweeney, Joseph Cornwell, Robin Blaze, Stephen Alder, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
God Is Our Hope and StrengthJohn Blow, The Parley of Instruments, David Hill, Winchester Cathedral Choir
I Beheld, and Lo! a Great MultitudeJohn Blow, David Hill, Joseph Cornwell, Robin Blaze, Stephen Alder, Stephen Varcoe, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
Turn Thee unto Me, O LordJohn Blow, David Hill, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
Blessed Is the Man That Hath Not WalkedJohn Blow, David Hill, Joseph Cornwell, Robin Blaze, Stephen Alder, Stephen Varcoe, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
Lift Up Your Heads, O Ye GatesJohn Blow, Winchester Cathedral Choir, The Parley of Instruments, David Hill
O Lord, I Have SinnedJohn Blow, The Parley of Instruments, Robin Blaze, David Hill, Winchester Cathedral Choir, William Kendall, Stephen Varcoe
O Give Thanks unto the Lord, for He Is GraciousJohn Blow, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
O Lord, Thou Hast Searched Me Out and Known MeJohn Blow, Stephen Alder, Stephen Varcoe, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
Cry Aloud and Spare NotJohn Blow, Winchester Cathedral Choir, The Parley of Instruments, William Kendall, Stephen Alder, Joseph Cornwell, David Hill
Lord, Who Shall Dwell in Thy Tabernacle?John Blow, Joseph Cornwell, David Hill, Robin Blaze, Stephen Varcoe, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
I Said in the Cutting Off of My DaysJohn Blow, Winchester Cathedral Choir, The Parley of Instruments, Robin Blaze, Joseph Cornwell, William Kendall, David Hill
John Blow, born in 1649, was a prominent English composer and organist of the Baroque era, renowned for his significant contributions to English music. As a chorister at the Chapel Royal and later the organist of Westminster Abbey, Blow's influence extended to his pupils, including the esteemed Henry Purcell. His only stage work, 'Venus and Adonis', is believed to have inspired Purcell's famous opera 'Dido and Aeneas'. Blow's compositions were frequently performed at St Paul's Cathedral, where he served as choirmaster, and he was later appointed Composer to the Chapel Royal. His legacy endures through his diverse and distinguished body of work, making him one of the most notable English composers of his time.
Vinylscout
John Blow
