"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.
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