Leighton: Choral Music

Kenneth Leighton's "Choral Music" is a captivating collection of sacred choral works that showcase the composer's profound musicality and deep spiritual sensitivity. Released in June 1997 by Chandos, this album is a testament to Leighton's mastery of choral writing, featuring a diverse range of pieces that span from intimate, reflective works to grand, majestic compositions.

The album opens with "God's Grandeur," a piece that sets the tone for the entire collection with its awe-inspiring depiction of divine magnificence. It is followed by "What Love is This of Thine?" and "Give Me the Wings of Faith," both of which explore themes of love, faith, and spiritual longing. The four-part "Crucifixus pro nobis, Op. 38" is a standout piece, offering a deeply moving meditation on the passion of Christ.

One of the most beloved works on the album is "Lully, Lulla, Thou Little Tiny Child," a seasonal staple that Leighton composed in his teens. This piece, with its gentle, lullaby-like melody, is a beautiful addition to the album's diverse repertoire.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Mass, Op. 44," a monumental work dedicated to Herrick Bunney and the Edinburgh University Singers. This six-movement mass is a tour de force of choral writing, showcasing Leighton's ability to blend intricate polyphony with soaring melodies.

The album concludes with "Laudate pueri, Op. 68," a joyful and exuberant piece that leaves the listener with a sense of spiritual uplift. Throughout the album, the Finzi Singers, conducted by Paul Spicer, deliver performances of exceptional beauty and precision, accompanied by the sensitive organ playing of Andrew Lumsden.

With a duration of just over an hour, "Choral Music" is a rich and rewarding listening experience that offers a deep dive into the sacred choral music of Kenneth Leighton. Whether you are a fan of choral music or simply seeking a spiritually uplifting musical experience, this album is sure to resonate with you.