Kenneth Leighton: The World's Desire & Other Choral Works

Album Description

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.

1 mei 2008

℗ 2008 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.