Leighton: An Easter Sequence & Crucifixus pro Nobis

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, evocative choral works of Kenneth Leighton with this compelling album, "Leighton: An Easter Sequence & Crucifixus pro Nobis." This collection, released in 2004, showcases the masterful compositions of Leighton, a prolific British composer known for his distinctive style characterized by lush harmonies, subtle dissonance, and rhythmic energy.

The album features a diverse range of choral pieces, including the stirring "An Easter Sequence," commissioned by the Berkshire Boy Choristers for a service in Paris, and the powerful cantata "Crucifixus pro Nobis." Leighton's compositions are brought to life by the renowned St. John's College Choir, Cambridge, under the direction of Christopher Robinson, ensuring a performance of the highest caliber.

Highlights of the album include the intricate "Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis 'Collegium Magdalenae Oxoniense'," the reflective "Give Me the Wings of Faith," and the dramatic "Rockingham," a chorale prelude on the hymn "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross." Each piece is performed with precision and passion, capturing the essence of Leighton's unique compositional voice.

Whether you are a fan of choral music or simply appreciate the beauty of well-crafted compositions, this album offers a captivating exploration of Kenneth Leighton's musical genius. With a duration of just over an hour, it provides a comprehensive overview of his sacred choral works, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection.

1 maart 2004

2004 Naxos

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.