Parry: Songs of Farewell & Other Choral Works

Experience the sublime voices of the Choir of New College, Oxford, as they pay tribute to the enduring legacy of Charles Hubert Hastings Parry with this exquisite collection of choral works. Released in 2018 to commemorate the centenary of Parry's passing, this album is a testament to the composer's profound influence on English music before the First World War.

The album opens with the powerful "Hear My Words, Ye People," arranged for choir and organ, setting the stage for the six motets from Parry's Op. 79. Each motet is dedicated to a specific liturgical occasion, offering a rich tapestry of sacred music that spans the Christian calendar. From the joyous "Weihnachten" to the reflective "Am Karfreitage," these motets showcase Parry's mastery of choral composition and his deep understanding of the human voice.

The centerpiece of the album is Parry's "Songs of Farewell," a cycle of six songs composed in the final decade of his life. These elegiac pieces are performed with stunning clarity and sensitivity, reflecting the sense of loss and longing that permeates Parry's late works. The album also includes an early version of "There Is an Old Belief," providing a fascinating glimpse into the composer's creative process.

The album concludes with the dramatic "Toccata & Fugue 'The Wanderer'," a thrilling showcase of the choir's technical prowess and musical versatility. Under the expert direction of Robert Quinney, the Choir of New College, Oxford delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving, making this album a essential addition to any choral music enthusiast's collection. The album is a fitting tribute to Parry's enduring legacy and a testament to the enduring power of his music.