Song of Songs

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Patrick Hawes' "Song of Songs," a captivating choral and organ album released on April 27, 2009, under Signum Records. This exquisite collection centers around the timeless beauty and mystery of the Old Testament, with a particular focus on the poetic love songs from the Song of Solomon. Hawes, both the composer and conductor, masterfully brings these ancient texts to life with the help of the Conventus choir and the English Chamber Orchestra, accompanied by the stunning vocals of Welsh soprano Elin Manahan Thomas.

The album is a harmonious blend of sacred and secular, featuring eight tracks inspired by the Song of Solomon, including "Love's Promise," "Rhapsody," and "Faint with Love," as well as other scriptural pieces like "Perfect Love," "When Israel was a Child," and "The Lord's Prayer." The libretto for these tracks was thoughtfully crafted by Andrew Hawes, adding depth and context to the musical journey.

In addition to the choral works, the album also includes four part songs from "The Vauday" and a final organ piece, "Toccata," showcasing the versatility and range of Hawes' compositional prowess. The entire album spans 59 minutes, offering a rich and immersive listening experience that highlights the power of music to bring ancient texts to life in a contemporary setting. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply appreciate the beauty of the Old Testament, "Song of Songs" is a must-listen album that will leave you spellbound.