"Sacred and Profane," released in 2015, is a profound exploration of Benjamin Britten's choral mastery, showcasing his ability to blend the sacred and the secular in a seamless musical journey. Composed in 1975, just a year before Britten's passing, this album features eight lyrics based on medieval English poems, each set in their original language, offering a unique historical and cultural context.
The album spans a rich tapestry of genres, including classical, requiem, opera, neoclassical, and choral, providing a diverse listening experience that highlights Britten's versatility and depth as a composer. With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, "Sacred and Profane" is a substantial body of work that invites repeated exploration.
The tracklist is a fascinating mix of traditional hymns, medieval poems, and original compositions, including works like "St. Godric's Hymn," "The Long Night," and "God's Grandeur." The album also features contributions from other notable composers, such as Herbert Howells and Anthony O'Daly, adding layers of richness to the overall composition.
Conducted by Richard Pearce and performed by the BBC Singers, this album benefits from the expertise of some of the finest voices in choral music. The performances are nuanced and powerful, bringing Britten's compositions to life with clarity and passion.
"Sacred and Profane" is not just an album; it is a testament to Benjamin Britten's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the choral genre. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Britten's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a compelling and enriching listening experience.
2015 Treasure Island2015 Treasure Island
Tracks
St. Godric's HymnBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
I Mon Waxe WodBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Lenten Is ComeBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
The Long NightBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Yif Ic of Luve CanBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
CarolBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Yet That Passen ByBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
A DeathBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Herbert Howells: InheritanceHerbert Howells, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
What Is It LikeArnold Bax, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
White-Flowering DaysGerald Finzi, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Silence and MusicRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Spring at This HourLennox Berkeley, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
AubadeArthur Bliss, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Mary HinesBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Anthony O DalyBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
The CoolinBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
On the Death of AntonyBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
On the Death of CleopatraBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
The Monk and His CatBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Prayer IBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Rosa MysticaBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
God's GrandeurBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Prayer IIBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
O Deus, Ego Am TeBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
The SoldierBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
Heaven HavenBenjamin Britten, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Timothy Brown
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