Experience the grandeur and solemnity of royal ceremonies with "Music for Royal Occasions" by The Choir of Westminster Abbey. Released on June 15, 2010, under Griffin Records, this choral masterpiece is a collection of hymns and anthems that have echoed through the historic walls of Westminster Abbey during significant royal events. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, the album is a testament to the rich musical heritage and the ceremonial traditions of the British monarchy.
The tracklist features a blend of traditional hymns and original compositions, including "I Vow to Thee, My Country," "Love Divine," and "Eventide: Abide with Me." The album also includes the Welsh National Anthem, "Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau," and the "Investiture Anniversary Fanfare," adding a touch of national pride and festivity. Notable pieces like "Rhapsody for a Prince" and "God Bless the Prince of Wales" underscore the regal theme, while "Set Me as a Seal" and "Make Me a Channel of Your Peace" offer moments of reflection and spiritual connection.
Under the direction of James O'Donnell, the Organist and Master of the Choristers at Westminster Abbey, the choir delivers a performance that is both majestic and intimate. The album captures the essence of royal occasions, from the solemnity of state ceremonies to the joyous celebrations of national pride. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply appreciate the grandeur of royal traditions, "Music for Royal Occasions" offers a captivating listen that resonates with the timeless elegance of Westminster Abbey.
2010 Griffin Records2010 Griffin Records
Tracks
I vow to thee my countryGustav Holst, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Martin Baker (organ), London Brass, Martin Neary
Love Divinetrad Blaenwern, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, London Brass, Martin Baker (organ), Martin Neary
Wash me throughlySamuel Sebastian Wesley, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Martin Neary, London Brass, Ian Simcock (organ)
Lord, for Thy tender mercy`s sakeJohn Hilton, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, London Brass, Ian Simcock (organ), Martin Neary
Give rest, O Christtrad kontakion, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Martin Neary, London Brass, Martin Baker (organ)
O God, our help in ages pastWilliam Croft, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Martin Neary, Martin Baker (organ), London Brass
I will lift up mine eyeWilliam McKie, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Martin Neary, London Brass, Ian Simcock (organ)
Welsh National Anthem: Hen wlad fy nhadauTrad, Llandaff Cathedral Choir, Michael Hoeg (organ/piano), Michael A. Smith, Welsh National Opera Brass
Investiture Anniversary FanfareWilliam Mathias, Llandaff Cathedral Choir, Michael Hoeg (organ/piano), Michael A. Smith, Welsh National Opera Brass
Rhapsody for a PrinceMansel Thomas, Llandaff Cathedral Choir, Michael A. Smith, Michael Hoeg (organ/piano), Welsh National Opera Brass
Hail the day that sees Him rise: Gwyn a Dwridog, Hawddgar IawnTrad, Llandaff Cathedral Choir, Welsh National Opera Brass, Michael Hoeg (organ/piano), Michael A. Smith
Fanfare: ArrivalDavid Wynne, Llandaff Cathedral Choir, Michael A. Smith, Michael Hoeg (organ/piano), Welsh National Opera Brass
God Bless the Prince of WalesRichards, Llandaff Cathedral Choir, Welsh National Opera Brass, Michael Hoeg (organ/piano), Michael A. Smith
Set me as a sealWilliam Walton, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Ian Simcock (organ), Martin Neary, London Brass
Make me a channel of Your PeaceTemple arr Martin Neary, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Martin Neary, Martin Baker (organ), London Brass
Eventide: Abide with meTrad, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Martin Baker (organ), Martin Neary, London Brass