Stanford: Te Deum in B-Flat Major, Op. 66 & Elegiac Ode, Op. 21

Dive into the rich and resonant world of Charles Villiers Stanford with this captivating album, featuring two of his most significant choral works. The centerpiece is Stanford's grand "Te Deum in B-Flat Major, Op. 66," a monumental composition first performed at the Leeds Festival in 1898. Commissioned to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, this opulent and ambitious piece showcases Stanford's mastery of choral writing and his ability to create music of grand scale and deep spiritual resonance.

Complementing the "Te Deum" is Stanford's "Elegiac Ode, Op. 21," a poignant and introspective work that contrasts beautifully with the grandeur of the "Te Deum." This four-movement ode, with its hauntingly beautiful texts, offers a glimpse into Stanford's more intimate and reflective side.

Performed by the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales, under the baton of Adrian Partington, this album benefits from stellar performances and top-notch production. The album features a stellar cast of soloists, including Rhian Lois, Samantha Price, Alessandro Fisher, and Morgan Pearse, who bring these works to life with passion and precision.

Recorded in 2023 at the BBC Hoddinott Hall in Cardiff, this album offers a rich and immersive listening experience. With a duration of over an hour, it provides a substantial and rewarding exploration of Stanford's choral artistry. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Stanford's music or a newcomer to his works, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The album includes texts and translations, enhancing the listener's understanding and appreciation of these profound works.

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.