Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of sacred choral music with "Stanford: Choral Works," a captivating collection of compositions by the esteemed Charles Villiers Stanford. This album, released on December 1, 2014, under Convivium Records, showcases the brilliance of Stanford's choral and requiem genres, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes.
Performed by the renowned Winchester College Chapel Choir, accompanied by the newly installed Dobson organ in Merton College Chapel, Oxford, this album is a testament to Stanford's enduring legacy. The choir, under the skilled direction of David Hill, delivers a flawless performance that highlights the depth and beauty of Stanford's sacred choral works.
"Stanford: Choral Works" features a diverse selection of Stanford's compositions, including excerpts from his "Morning, Evening & Communion Service in C Major, Op. 115," the "3 Latin Motets, Op. 38," and the "Bible Songs, Op. 113." The album also includes beloved hymns and anthems such as "O for a Closer Walk with God," "When, in Our Music, God Is Glorified," and "The Lord Is My Shepherd." This collection is a celebration of Stanford's contributions to choral music, offering both his most celebrated pieces and lesser-known works that deserve wider recognition.
As we mark the centenary of Charles Villiers Stanford's death, this album provides a comprehensive survey of his sacred choral works, focusing on the music composed during his formative years in Cambridge. Stanford, an Irish composer, conductor, and teacher, played a pivotal role in the revival of English music and left an indelible mark on the choral and orchestral repertoire. His influence as a professor of music at the Royal College of Music further solidified his status as a key figure in British musical history.
The album is meticulously curated, with program notes compiled by Professor Jeremy Dibble, a leading authority on Stanford's music. The cover portrait, commissioned for this release, adds a touch of elegance to the overall presentation. Whether you are a seasoned fan of choral music or a newcomer to Stanford's works, this album offers a profound and enriching listening experience.