"This Is the Day: Music on Royal Occasions" by John Rutter is a captivating collection of choral music that pays tribute to the royal occasions celebrated during the reign of HM Queen Elizabeth II. Released on April 24, 2012, under the Collegium label, this album spans a little over an hour and fourteen minutes, offering a rich tapestry of sacred and ceremonial pieces that have marked significant moments in royal history.
The album features the renowned Cambridge Singers and the Aurora Orchestra, conducted by John Rutter himself, delivering a harmonious blend of choral mastery and orchestral elegance. It includes a diverse range of compositions, from the uplifting "This Is the Day" to the solemn and reflective "Ein deutsches Requiem," showcasing Rutter's versatility and the ensemble's exceptional skill.
Each track reflects the personal choices and commissions of the Royal Family for weddings, funerals, and anniversaries over the past six decades. Highlights include the majestic "Gloriana" and the poignant "Song for Athene," offering a glimpse into the musical heritage that has accompanied royal celebrations and commemorations.
Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply appreciate the grandeur of royal traditions, this album provides a unique and enchanting listening experience. John Rutter's meticulous arrangements and the impeccable performances by the Cambridge Singers and Aurora Orchestra make "This Is the Day: Music on Royal Occasions" a timeless tribute to the music that has graced some of the most memorable moments in royal history.
2012 Collegium2012 Collegium
Tracks
This Is the DayJohn Rutter, Aurora Orchestra, The Cambridge Singers
Vesperae solennes de confessore, K. 339: V. Laudate DominumWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, John Rutter, Aurora Orchestra, The Cambridge Singers, Elin Manahan Thomas
Psalm 23, Op. 132, D. 706Franz Schubert, John Rutter, Aurora Orchestra, The Cambridge Singers
Ein deutsches Requiem, Op. 45: IV. How lovely is thy dwelling placeJohannes Brahms, John Rutter, Aurora Orchestra, The Cambridge Singers
The Apostles, Op. 49: Prologue (The Spirit of the Lord Is upon Me)Edward Elgar, John Rutter, Andrew Lucas, The Cambridge Singers
We Wait for Thy Loving KindnessWilliam McKie, John Rutter, Andrew Lucas, The Cambridge Singers, Simon Wall
Ubi caritasPaul Mealor, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers, Alison Hill
4 Motets on Gregorian Themes, Op. 10: Ubi caritasMaurice Duruflé, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Holy Is the True LightWilliam Henry Harris, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Song for AtheneJohn Tavener, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
These ThreeRichard Rodney Bennett, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Set Me as a Seal upon Thine HeartWilliam Walton, John Rutter, Ben Alden, The Cambridge Singers, Grace Davidson
God Be in My HeadHenry Walford Davies, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
I Would be TrueTraditional, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Touch Her Soft Lips and Part (From "Henry V")William Walton, John Rutter, Aurora Orchestra
Gloriana, Op. 53: Choral Dance No. 1, TimeBenjamin Britten, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Gloriana, Op. 53: Choral Dance No. 2, ConcordBenjamin Britten, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Gloriana, Op. 53: Choral Dance No. 3, Time and ConcordBenjamin Britten, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Gloriana, Op. 53: Choral Dance No. 4, Country GirlsBenjamin Britten, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Gloriana, Op. 53: Choral Dance No. 5, Rustics and FishermenBenjamin Britten, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Gloriana, Op. 53: Choral Dance No. 6, Final Dance of HomageBenjamin Britten, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
Samson, HWV 57: Let the Bright Seraphim in Burning Row - Let Their Celestial Concerts All UniteGeorge Frideric Handel, John Rutter, Simon Cox, Aurora Orchestra, The Cambridge Singers, Elin Manahan Thomas
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