"The Music of Westminster Cathedral Choir," released in 1998 under the Hyperion label, is a captivating collection of sacred choral music performed by the renowned Westminster Cathedral Choir, conducted by James O'Donnell. This album is a testament to the choir's exceptional artistry and their deep-rooted tradition of excellence in Catholic church music. Spanning a little over an hour and nineteen minutes, the album features a diverse repertoire that includes Gregorian chants, masses, and requiems, showcasing the choir's versatility and mastery of various musical styles.
The album opens with "Great Is the Lord, Op. 67" and closes with "Magnificat for 8-Part Chorus, Op. 164," offering a rich tapestry of sacred music that highlights the choir's ability to convey both solemnity and exultation. Notable works include the "Missa brevis, Op. 63" and the "Mass in G Major, FP 89," which demonstrate the choir's precision and harmonic richness. The album also features the "Westminster Mass: III. Deus, Deus meus," a piece that underscores the choir's deep connection to their namesake cathedral.
One of the standout tracks is the "Mass for Double Choir" by Frank Martin, which earned the album the prestigious 1998 Gramophone Award for Best Choral Recording of the Year and the overall Record of the Year. This piece, along with the "Requiem" by Ildebrando Pizzetti, showcases the choir's ability to handle complex polyphonic textures and their profound understanding of the sacred repertoire.
The Westminster Cathedral Choir, known as the "crowning jewel of Catholic church music," brings a sense of reverence and devotion to each piece, making this album a profound listening experience. Whether you are a devotee of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, "The Music of Westminster Cathedral Choir" offers a timeless collection that celebrates the beauty and spirituality of sacred choral traditions.
Vinylscout