Philip Stopford: Sacred Choral Music

Immerse yourself in the divine harmonies of Philip Stopford's latest sacred choral masterpiece, "Philip Stopford: Sacred Choral Music." This captivating album, released on January 12, 2024, under the prestigious Naxos label, showcases the brilliance of Philip Stopford, a composer renowned for his beautifully crafted music deeply rooted in the Anglican tradition. With a runtime of 72 minutes, this collection is a testament to Stopford's ability to create memorable and colorful compositions that resonate with both British and American audiences.

The album features the stunning Missa Deus nobiscum, a grand choral work for soprano, choir, and orchestra, divided into eight sacred movements. Each piece, from the solemn "Kyrie eleison" to the triumphant "Agnus Dei," is a testament to Stopford's mastery of choral writing. Beyond the Missa, the album includes a variety of sacred choral works, each offering a unique blend of spiritual depth and musical elegance. Highlights include the joyous "O Sing unto the Lord a New Song," the serene "The Lord Is My Shepherd," and the powerful "He Is Risen," featuring a brass quintet, timpani, and organ.

Recorded in October 2022 and released in January 2024, this album is performed by the esteemed Choir of St Luke's, Chelsea, under the direction of Philip Stopford himself. The meticulous attention to detail and the rich, resonant voices of the choir bring Stopford's compositions to life, creating an atmosphere of reverence and awe. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.