Nicholas Maw: One Foot in Eden Still, I Stand & Other Choral Works

Album Description

Nicholas Maw's sublime choral works are beautifully showcased in this captivating album, 'Nicholas Maw: One Foot in Eden Still, I Stand & Other Choral Works'. Released on 1 January 2007 by Hyperion, this 58-minute masterpiece features the talented Schola Cantorum of Oxford, conducted by Mark Shepherd.

The album is a testament to Maw's skill as a composer, with each piece demonstrating his unique ability to craft emotive and uplifting music. The title work, 'One Foot in Eden Still, I Stand', is a stunning motet that sets the poetry of Edwin Muir to music, commissioned by King's College, Cambridge to mark the 500th anniversary of the college's founding.

The album also includes a range of other choral works, including '3 Hymns', '5 Epigrams', and '5 Irish Songs', each one showcasing Maw's versatility and talent. From the serene 'Morning Hymn' to the lively 'Jig', every piece is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of wonder and joy.

With its perfect blend of traditional and modern elements, this album is a must-listen for fans of choral music. Nicholas Maw's compositions are brought to life by the exceptional performances of the Schola Cantorum of Oxford, making this album a true treasure for anyone who appreciates beautiful music.

1 jan 2007

℗ 2007 Hyperion Records Limited

About Nicholas Maw

Nicholas Maw, born in Grantham, Lincolnshire in 1935, was a celebrated British composer known for his unique blend of Romantic sensibilities and modern techniques. Studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London and with renowned figures like Nadia Boulanger in Paris, Maw honed a distinctive musical language that made him one of Britain's most admired composers. His breakthrough work, "Scenes and Arias," premiered at the BBC Proms, showcasing his ability to reconnect with the Romantic tradition while pushing musical boundaries.

Maw's repertoire spans various genres, but he is perhaps best known for his operas, including "The Rising of the Moon" and the powerful "Sophie's Choice," based on William Styron's novel. His orchestral works, such as the epic "Odyssey" and a sumptuous Violin Concerto dedicated to Joshua Bell, further cement his status as a pivotal figure in the neo-Romantic revival. Maw's music is characterized by its clear harmonic organization, lyricism, and emotional depth, making each of his compositions a journey into a richly textured musical world.