Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Christmas with "Three Christmas Cantatas" by the legendary Sir David Willcocks. This captivating album, released on November 4, 2022, under Heritage Records, is a celebration of choral and Christmas music that spans a little over an hour and seven minutes. Sir David Willcocks, a name synonymous with Christmas, brings together the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Royal College of Music Chamber Choir to perform two rarely heard twentieth-century Christmas cantatas by Geoffrey Bush and George Dyson, along with Benjamin Britten's iconic "A Ceremony of Carols."
The album opens with "In Praise of Mary," a six-part cantata that showcases Willcocks' masterful arrangements and the choir's ethereal harmonies. The second part of the album features "A Ceremony of Carols," a beloved collection of carols that Britten composed during World War II. The final track, "The Bells of St Chad's," is a delightful bonus that adds a touch of festive cheer to the album.
Sir David Willcocks, who passed away in 2015, was a prominent figure in post-war British musical life. His contributions to Christmas music are unparalleled, and this album is a testament to his enduring legacy. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply looking for the perfect soundtrack to your holiday season, "Three Christmas Cantatas" is sure to delight and inspire. So, sit back, relax, and let the magical sounds of Christmas transport you to a world of wonder and joy.
(C) 2022 Heritage Records(P) 2022 Heritage Records
Tracks
In Praise of Mary: I. PrologueGeoffrey Bush, Sir David Willcocks, Valery Hill, Jane Watts, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
In Praise of Mary: II. There is no roseGeoffrey Bush, Sir David Willcocks, Valery Hill, Jane Watts, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
In Praise of Mary: III. A Maid peerlessGeoffrey Bush, Sir David Willcocks, Valery Hill, Jane Watts, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
In Praise of Mary: IV. Adam lay y-boundenGeoffrey Bush, Sir David Willcocks, Valery Hill, Jane Watts, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
In Praise of Mary: V. Lully lullayGeoffrey Bush, Sir David Willcocks, Valery Hill, Jane Watts, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
In Praise of Mary: VI. EpilogueGeoffrey Bush, Sir David Willcocks, Valery Hill, Jane Watts, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
A Christmas GarlandGeorge Dyson, Sir David Willcocks, Valery Hill, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
A Ceremony Of Carols: I. ProcessionBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: II. Wolcome YoleBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: III. There is no roseBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: IV. That yonge childeBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: V. BalulalowBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: VI. As dew in AprilleBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: VII. This little babeBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: VIII. InterludeBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: IX. In freezing winter nightBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: X. Spring carolBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: XI. Deo graciasBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
A Ceremony Of Carols: X!!. RecessionBenjamin Britten, Copenhagen Boys' Choir, Enid Simon
The Holy BoyJohn Ireland, Sir David Willcocks, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
The Bells of St Chad'sHeathcote Statham, Sir David Willcocks, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
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