Immerse yourself in the sacred and serene world of Kenneth Leighton's choral compositions with this exquisite collection, "The World's Desire & Other Choral Works." Recorded in the resplendent acoustics of Wells Cathedral, United Kingdom, in June 2007, this album captures the essence of Leighton's mastery in choral writing, making it a cornerstone of the English Cathedral repertoire.
The album features a diverse array of Leighton's works, including the substantial and evocative "The World's Desire," a sequence for Epiphany, and the contemplative "Sequence for All Saints." Each piece showcases Leighton's deep understanding of choral textures and his ability to create profound spiritual atmospheres. The performances by the esteemed Wells Cathedral Choir, conducted by Matthew Owens, are complemented by the skilled organ playing of David Bednall, adding depth and richness to the recordings.
Highlights include the intricate and moving "Sequence for All Saints," which unfolds in five distinct movements, and the joyous "Morning Canticles," featuring the traditional Venite, Te Deum laudamus, and Jubilate Deo. The album also includes the reflective "O God, Enfold Me in the Sun" and the elegant "Chorale Prelude on Rockingham," demonstrating Leighton's versatility and compositional prowess.
Released on the prestigious Hyperion label in May 2008, this album is a testament to Leighton's enduring legacy in the world of choral music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of classical choral works or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's duration of 76 minutes provides ample time to savor the beauty and complexity of Leighton's compositions, making it an essential addition to any classical music library.
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: I. IntroitKenneth Leighton, David Bednall, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: II. GradualKenneth Leighton, Matthew Owens, David Bednall, Stephen Foulkes, Wells Cathedral Choir
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: III. OffertoryKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens, Jacob Coton, David Bednall
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: IV. CommunionKenneth Leighton, David Bednall, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir, Stephen Foulkes
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: V. FinaleKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral School Chapel Choir, Wells Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens, David Bednall
Chorale Prelude on RockinghamKenneth Leighton, David Bednall
O God, Enfold Me in the SunKenneth Leighton, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir, David Bednall
Morning Canticles: I. VeniteKenneth Leighton, David Bednall, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir
Morning Canticles: II. Te Deum laudamusKenneth Leighton, David Bednall, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir
Morning Canticles: III. Jubilate DeoKenneth Leighton, Matthew Owens, David Bednall, Wells Cathedral Choir
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 1: I. Now When Jesus Was Born in BethlehemKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens, Christopher Sheldrake, David Bednall, Iain Milne
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 1: II. Bright Babe, Whose Awful Beauties MakeKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral School Chapel Choir, Wells Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens, David Bednall
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 2: I. The Christ-Child Lay on Mary's LapKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral Choir, David Bednall, Léonie Maxwell, Matthew Owens
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 2: II. Behold, I Send My MessengerKenneth Leighton, Christopher Sheldrake, Iain Milne, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir, David Bednall
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 2: III. Today the Grace of the SpiritKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral School Chapel Choir, Wells Cathedral Choir, Simon Clulow, Matthew Owens, Léonie Maxwell, Iain Milne, David Bednall, Christopher Sheldrake
Vinylscout