Immerse yourself in the sacred choral masterpieces of Lennox Berkeley with this exquisite album, "Stabat Mater: Sacred Choral Music by Lennox & Michael Berkeley." Released on July 29, 2016, under Delphian Records LTD, this collection showcases the profound depth and spiritual resonance of Berkeley's compositions, spanning a duration of one hour. The album is a testament to Berkeley's mastery of chamber music, featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary choral works.
The centerpiece of the album is the "Stabat Mater," a powerful and poignant setting of the medieval Latin hymn that reflects on the sorrow of the Virgin Mary at the crucifixion of Jesus. Each of the ten movements, from the solemn "Lento" to the fervent "Allegro moderato," is a journey through the depths of human emotion and divine devotion. Berkeley's intricate harmonies and evocative melodies bring a fresh perspective to this timeless text, making it a standout piece in the choral repertoire.
In addition to the "Stabat Mater," the album includes the "Mass for Five Voices," a stunning choral work that encompasses the traditional sections of the Mass—Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. Berkeley's setting is both reverent and innovative, blending the rich traditions of sacred music with his unique compositional voice. The album also features "Judica me," a moving solo piece, and "Touch Light," a collaborative work for soprano, countertenor, and string quartet that adds a contemporary touch to the collection.
Lennox Berkeley, a renowned British composer, is celebrated for his contributions to 20th-century classical music. His works often reflect a deep spiritual and emotional depth, and this album is no exception. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The combination of Berkeley's timeless compositions and the exquisite performances by the featured artists makes this a truly memorable collection of sacred choral music.
(C) 2016 Delphian Records LTD(P) 2016 Delphian Records LTD
Tracks
Stabat Mater: I. Lento - Stabat Mater dolorosaLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Stabat Mater: II. Andante con moto - O quam tristis et afflictaLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Stabat Mater: III. Adagio - Quis et homo qui non fleretLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Stabat Mater: IV. Allegro - Pro peccatis suae gentrisLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Stabat Mater: V. Andantino - Eia Mater, fons amorisLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Stabat Mater: VI. Maestoso - Sancta Mater, istud agasLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Stabat Mater: VII. Moderato - Fac me tecum pie flereLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Stabat Mater: VIII. Andante - Virgo virginum preaclaraLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Stabat Mater: IX. Allegro moderato - Fac me plagis vulnerariLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Stabat Mater: X. Andante - Christe, cum sit hinc exireLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Mass for Five Voices: KyrieLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Mass for Five Voices: GloriaLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Mass for Five Voices: SanctusLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Mass for Five Voices: BenedictusLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Mass for Five Voices: Agnus DeiLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Judica meLennox Berkeley, The Marian Consort, David Wordsworth, Rory McCleery
Touch Light - for soprano, countertenor and string quartetMichael Berkeley, The Marian Consort, Berkeley Ensemble, David Wordsworth