Kenneth Leighton: Crucifixus & Other Choral Works

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and evocative world of Kenneth Leighton's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, "Kenneth Leighton: Crucifixus & Other Choral Works." Released in April 2015 by Hyperion, this collection showcases the beloved choral compositions of Kenneth Leighton, a name synonymous with the rich Anglican tradition. The album spans a diverse range of works, from the serene beauty of "Magnificat & Nunc dimittis" to the profound intensity of "Crucifixus pro nobis."

The album features a variety of choral pieces, including the moving "God's Grandeur" and the contemplative "Give Me the Wings of Faith." Leighton's "Missa brevis, Op. 50" and "Missa de Gloria, Op. 82" offer a glimpse into his mastery of the mass form, while "The Second Service, Op. 62" and "Crucifixus pro nobis, Op. 38" highlight his ability to convey deep spiritual themes through choral music. The album concludes with the poignant "Hymn," a fitting finale to this collection of sacred works.

Recorded over various dates and venues, this album benefits from the expertise of producer Adrian Peacock and engineer David Hinitt, ensuring a high-quality listening experience. With a duration of approximately 72 minutes, this album is a testament to Kenneth Leighton's enduring legacy in the world of choral music. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Leighton's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is sure to resonate with your love for choral music.

29 maart 2015

℗ 2015 Hyperion Records Limited

About Kenneth Leighton

Kenneth Leighton, born in Wakefield in 1929, was a distinguished British composer and pianist whose musical journey was as rich and varied as the landscapes of his beloved Scotland. Beginning his musical education as a chorister at Wakefield Cathedral, Leighton's early prowess earned him the LRAM Piano Performer's Diploma while still in school. His academic pursuits led him to Oxford, where he studied Classics, but his heart remained in music, influenced by notable figures like Gerald Finzi, Edmund Rubbra, and Vaughan Williams. Leighton's compositions span a wide range of genres, from church and choral music to concertos, symphonies, and even an opera. His distinctive style, a blend of English and Italian traditions, is evident in his ten mass settings alone, each in a different language and style. As a teacher at universities in Leeds, Oxford, and primarily Edinburgh, Leighton's influence extended beyond his own compositions, inspiring generations of musicians. His legacy endures in his extensive body of work, which continues to captivate audiences with its depth and talent.