The Songs of Roger Quilter

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Roger Quilter's art song repertoire with this exquisite collection of his most beloved works. Released on May 1, 2015, via Nimbus Records, "The Songs of Roger Quilter" is a testament to the composer's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the English musical landscape.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, this album features a diverse array of Quilter's compositions, showcasing his mastery of the song form. From the whimsical "St. Valentine's Day" to the evocative "Songs, Op. 14" and "Songs, Op. 25" series, each track offers a unique glimpse into the composer's artistic vision. Notable inclusions also feature settings of Shakespeare's poetry, such as "How Should I Your True Love Know?" and "Orpheus with his Lute," as well as adaptations of William Blake's poetry in "Three Songs of William Blake."

Roger Quilter, born on November 1, 1877, and passing away on September 21, 1953, was an English composer renowned for his exquisite songs. His works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and poetic sensitivity, making them staples in the English art song canon. This collection not only highlights Quilter's musical genius but also includes informative notes and a comprehensive biography, providing valuable context and insight into the composer's life and creative process.

Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of classical vocal music or a newcomer to the genre, "The Songs of Roger Quilter" promises an enriching and captivating experience. The album's thoughtful curation and high-quality production ensure that every note and lyric resonates with clarity and depth, making it a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.

1 mei 2015

About Roger Quilter

Roger Quilter (1877-1953) was a distinguished British composer renowned for his exquisite art songs, which have become a cornerstone of the English vocal repertoire. Born into a wealthy family in Hove, Quilter's musical journey began at Eton and continued at Dr Hoch's Konservatorium in Frankfurt, where he studied alongside notable contemporaries. His compositions, over a hundred in number, often set music to texts by literary greats such as William Shakespeare, Robert Herrick, and Percy Bysshe Shelley, showcasing his deep appreciation for poetry and his gift for melody. Quilter's works, characterised by their elegance and impressionistic piano accompaniments, are essential for any classical singer's repertoire. Beyond his art songs, Quilter also contributed to the world of choral, instrumental, and stage works, with notable pieces including his Children’s Overture and the light opera 'Where the Rainbow Ends'. His legacy endures as a testament to his refined musical style and enduring influence on English art song.