Celebrating her 50th birthday, British composer Roxanna Panufnik presents "Celestial Bird," a captivating anthology of her choral music, released on Signum Records. This collection, recorded in January 2018 at the Bramall Music Building, University of Birmingham, is a testament to Panufnik's imaginative and expressive compositional style, showcasing her versatility across liturgical, world, secular, and romantic themes.
The album features the renowned Ex Cathedra choir, conducted by Jeffrey Skidmore, alongside Milapfest, delivering a rich and diverse range of choral works. From the ethereal "Celestial Bird" to the tender "A Cradle Song," and the powerful "St Pancras Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis," each piece is a testament to Panufnik's distinctive voice and her ability to evoke a wide range of emotions.
"Celestial Bird" is a journey through Panufnik's musical landscape, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary influences. The album's duration of 56 minutes provides a comprehensive exploration of her choral works, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Roxanna Panufnik or a newcomer to her music, this album is sure to impress with its beauty, depth, and variety.