Stanford: A Song of Agincourt & Other Works

"Stanford: A Song of Agincourt & Other Works" offers a captivating journey through the ceremonial and evocative compositions of Charles Villiers Stanford, a prominent figure in late Romantic English music. This album, released in 2019 on the Hyperion label, showcases Stanford's mastery of choral and orchestral works, spanning a duration of one hour and five minutes.

The album opens with the dramatic "Overture in the Style of a Tragedy, Op. 90," setting the tone for a collection that balances grandeur and intimacy. The orchestral arrangements of "Verdun," originally composed for organ, are particularly striking, with the "Solemn March" and "Heroic Epilogue" highlighting Stanford's ability to convey both solemnity and triumph.

"A Welcome March, Op. 87," composed for the state visit of Edward VII to Ireland, is a standout piece, blending royal pomp with a touch of Irish charm. The ethereal beauty of "Fairy Day, Op. 131," performed by the Codetta chamber choir, provides a delicate contrast to the more robust works on the album.

The titular piece, "A Song of Agincourt, Op. 168," is a stirring tone poem dedicated to the members of the Royal College of Music who served in World War I. Incorporating the famous "Agincourt Song," this work is both a tribute and a powerful musical narrative.

Under the direction of Howard Shelley and performed by the Ulster Orchestra, this album is a testament to Stanford's enduring legacy. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or new to Stanford's work, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Charles Villiers Stanford, an eminent figure of the late Romantic era, was an Anglo-Irish composer, conductor, and music educator whose influence resonates through the generations. Born into a musically inclined family in Dublin, Stanford's journey took him from the halls of the University of Cambridge to the prestigious music conservatories of Leipzig and Berlin. His contributions to the musical world are vast, notably his role in elevating the Cambridge University Musical Society to international acclaim. Stanford's compositions, particularly his choral works and requiems, are celebrated for their depth and emotional resonance, earning him the title of Ireland's most prolific composer. His legacy endures, inspiring countless musicians and composers, including the likes of Ralph Vaughan Williams and Gustav Holst. Stanford's Anglican cathedral music remains a staple in the repertoire, a testament to his enduring impact on the world of music.