Richard Blackford's latest album, "La Sagrada Familia Symphony & Babel, A Cantata," is a captivating journey through two distinct yet interconnected musical works. The album opens with the "La Sagrada Familia Symphony," a three-movement piece inspired by the iconic architectural masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí. Richard Blackford has crafted a symphony that stands alone as a musical homage to Gaudí, with each movement—Nativity, Passion, and Glory—evoking the grandeur and spiritual essence of the basilica.
The second half of the album presents "Babel, A Cantata," a two-part choral work that draws from the biblical stories of Noah and the Great Flood, and the Tower of Babel. This cantata is divided into two parts, each beginning with the children of Seth and Noah, respectively. The narrative unfolds through a series of movements, each telling a segment of the story, from the flood and its aftermath to the scattering of languages and the promise of God to Noah. The cantata culminates in a powerful finale, "Praise My Soul the King of Heaven," a testament to Blackford's skill in blending narrative and music.
Recorded with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, this album showcases Richard Blackford's ability to create deeply moving and intellectually stimulating music. The performances are impeccable, bringing to life the rich textures and emotional depth of both the symphony and the cantata. The album is a testament to Blackford's artistic vision and his ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Whether you are a fan of symphonic music, choral works, or simply appreciate the beauty of well-crafted compositions, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
2024 Lyrita Recorded Edition2024 Lyrita Recorded Edition
Tracks
La Sagrada Familia Symphony: I. NativityRichard Blackford, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales
La Sagrada Familia Symphony: II. PassionRichard Blackford, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales
La Sagrada Familia Symphony: III. GloryRichard Blackford, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales
Babel, Pt. 1 "The Flood": No. 1, The Children of Seth Praised GodRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Stephen Gadd
Babel, Pt. 1 "The Flood": No. 2, God Gave the Signal and It Began to RainRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Stephen Gadd
Babel, Pt. 1 "The Flood": No. 3, The Rain CeasedRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Stephen Gadd, Rebecca Bottone, Alessandro Fisher
Babel, Pt. 1 "The Flood": No. 4, Do Not Fear the Largeness of the ShowersRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Stephen Gadd, Rebecca Bottone
Babel, Pt. 2 "Babel": No. 5, The Children of Noah Were ThreeRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Alessandro Fisher
Babel, Pt. 2 "Babel": No. 6, Now Nimrod, the Mighty WarriorRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Stephen Gadd, Rebecca Bottone, Alessandro Fisher
Babel, Pt. 2 "Babel": No. 7, And He Confounded Their LanguageRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Stephen Gadd, Rebecca Bottone, Alessandro Fisher
Babel, Epilogue "God's Promise to Noah": No. 8, But Noah Was AfraidRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Stephen Gadd, Rebecca Bottone, Alessandro Fisher
Babel, Epilogue "God's Promise to Noah": No. 9, While Earth RemainsRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Stephen Gadd, Rebecca Bottone, Alessandro Fisher
Babel: No. 10, Praise My Soul the King of HeavenRichard Blackford, Ikon Singers & Ensemble, David Hill, Stephen Gadd, Rebecca Bottone, Alessandro Fisher
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