That Sweet City

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of choral music with "That Sweet City," a captivating album featuring the works of renowned composer Kenneth Leighton. This album, set for release on October 25, 2024, by Signum Records, showcases the exquisite vocal talents of the Choir of The Queen's College, Oxford, accompanied by the Britten Sinfonia. The centerpiece of this collection is the first-ever recording of Kenneth Leighton's early cantata "Veris gratia, Op. 6," a masterful composition that highlights the composer's early genius.

The album spans a total of 61 minutes and 46 seconds, offering a rich tapestry of choral music that includes ten movements from "Veris gratia" and an additional piece, "An Oxford Elegy." Each track is meticulously crafted, showcasing Leighton's unique style and the choir's impeccable performance. The album also features narration by the renowned Rowan Atkinson, adding a layer of depth and storytelling to the musical experience.

"Veris gratia, Op. 6" is divided into ten distinct movements, each with its own character and mood. From the serene "Prelude" to the triumphant "Paean," and the reflective "Nocturne," the cantata takes listeners on a journey through a variety of musical landscapes. The final movement, "Epilogue," provides a fitting conclusion to this choral masterpiece.

In addition to Leighton's work, the album includes "An Oxford Elegy," a poignant piece that further showcases the choir's versatility and the composer's depth. The album is a testament to the enduring beauty of choral music and the timeless appeal of Kenneth Leighton's compositions. Whether you are a seasoned fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, "That Sweet City" promises an enriching and memorable listening experience.

25 oktober 2024

(P) 2024 Signum Records

About Kenneth Leighton

Kenneth Leighton, born in Wakefield in 1929, was a distinguished British composer and pianist whose musical journey was as rich and varied as the landscapes of his beloved Scotland. Beginning his musical education as a chorister at Wakefield Cathedral, Leighton's early prowess earned him the LRAM Piano Performer's Diploma while still in school. His academic pursuits led him to Oxford, where he studied Classics, but his heart remained in music, influenced by notable figures like Gerald Finzi, Edmund Rubbra, and Vaughan Williams. Leighton's compositions span a wide range of genres, from church and choral music to concertos, symphonies, and even an opera. His distinctive style, a blend of English and Italian traditions, is evident in his ten mass settings alone, each in a different language and style. As a teacher at universities in Leeds, Oxford, and primarily Edinburgh, Leighton's influence extended beyond his own compositions, inspiring generations of musicians. His legacy endures in his extensive body of work, which continues to captivate audiences with its depth and talent.