Quilter: Folk-Song Arrangements / Part-Songs for Women's Voices

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Roger Quilter's musical genius with this comprehensive collection of his folk-song arrangements and part-songs for women's voices. Released on April 1, 2005, by Naxos, this album spans a generous 77 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of Quilter's masterful compositions and arrangements.

Roger Quilter, renowned for his art songs, folk songs, and traditional song arrangements, presents a stunning array of works that capture the essence of Victorian drawing-room ballads. The album features a diverse selection of songs, including well-known pieces like "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" and "My Lady Greensleeves," as well as lesser-known gems that showcase Quilter's versatility and depth.

Highlights include the enchanting "Love at the Inn" cycle, the hauntingly beautiful "The Arnold Book of Old Songs" series, and the delightful "Child Songs" and "Shakespeare Songs." Each track is meticulously arranged, bringing to life the rich poetic texts and melodic charm that Quilter is celebrated for.

This album is a treasure trove for both seasoned enthusiasts of classical music and those new to Roger Quilter's work. It features premiere recordings of vocal duets and the first complete recording of Quilter's folk-song arrangements, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're drawn to the timeless elegance of English folk songs or the intricate beauty of part-songs, this album promises a captivating listening experience.

1 april 2005

2005 Naxos

About Roger Quilter

Roger Quilter (1877-1953) was a distinguished British composer renowned for his exquisite art songs, which have become a cornerstone of the English vocal repertoire. Born into a wealthy family in Hove, Quilter's musical journey began at Eton and continued at Dr Hoch's Konservatorium in Frankfurt, where he studied alongside notable contemporaries. His compositions, over a hundred in number, often set music to texts by literary greats such as William Shakespeare, Robert Herrick, and Percy Bysshe Shelley, showcasing his deep appreciation for poetry and his gift for melody. Quilter's works, characterised by their elegance and impressionistic piano accompaniments, are essential for any classical singer's repertoire. Beyond his art songs, Quilter also contributed to the world of choral, instrumental, and stage works, with notable pieces including his Children’s Overture and the light opera 'Where the Rainbow Ends'. His legacy endures as a testament to his refined musical style and enduring influence on English art song.