Michael Tippett's "A Child of Our Time" is a profound and powerful choral work that transcends the boundaries of traditional neoclassical music. Released on September 5, 2025, under the London Philharmonic Orchestra label, this album spans a captivating 1 hour and 5 minutes, offering a deeply moving exploration of human suffering, resilience, and redemption.
Composed with meticulous detail, Tippett's masterpiece is divided into three parts, each delving into the struggles of oppression, persecution, and the enduring spirit of hope. The album opens with haunting melodies and poignant lyrics, setting the stage for a journey through the darkest corners of human experience. Tippett's use of spirituals, such as "Steal Away" and "Nobody Knows the Trouble I See, Lord," adds a layer of cultural richness and historical depth, weaving a tapestry of shared human experiences.
The orchestration is nothing short of breathtaking, with the London Philharmonic Orchestra bringing Tippett's vision to life with precision and passion. The choral arrangements are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the incredible range and emotional depth of the vocalists. From the somber tones of "The Terror" to the uplifting harmonies of "O, by and By," each track is a testament to Tippett's genius and the orchestra's exceptional skill.
"A Child of Our Time" is not just an album; it's an experience that challenges and inspires. Tippett's ability to blend neoclassical elements with spirituals creates a unique and timeless sound that resonates with listeners on a profound level. Whether you're a seasoned fan of neoclassical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album is a must-listen. Dive into the rich tapestry of sound and let Michael Tippett's masterpiece leave an indelible mark on your soul.
2025 London Philharmonic Orchestra2025 London Philharmonic Orchestra
Tracks
A Child of Our Time, Part I: The World Turns on Its Dark DideMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale
A Child of Our Time, Part I: The Argument. Man has Measured The Heavens With a TelescopeMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sarah Connolly
A Child of Our Time, Part I: InterludiumMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra
A Child of Our Time, Part I: Scena. Is Evil Then Good?Michael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale, Sarah Connolly
A Child of Our Time, Part I: The Narrator. Now In Each Nation There Were Some Cast OutMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part I: Chorus of the Oppressed. When Shall The Usurers' City CeaseMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale
A Child of Our Time, Part I: I Have No Money For My BreadMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Kenneth Tarver
A Child of Our Time, Part I: How Can I Cherish My Man in Such DaysMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Nadine Benjamin
A Child of Our Time, Part I: A Spiritual. Steal AwayMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Nadine Benjamin, Sarah Connolly, Kenneth Tarver, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part II: A Star Rises in Mid-WinterMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Narrator. And a Time CameMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part II: Double Chorus of Persecutors and Persecuted. Away with Them!Michael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Narrator. Where They Could, They Fled from The TerrorMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part II: Choruse of the Self-Righteous. We Cannot Have Them in Our EmpireMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Narrator. And the Boy's Mother Wrote a LetterMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part II: Scena. O My Son!Michael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Nadine Benjamin, Kenneth Tarver, Sarah Connolly, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part II: A Spiritual. Nobody Knows the Trouble I See, LordMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sarah Connolly, Nadine Benjamin, Kenneth Tarver, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Boy Comes Desperate in His AgonyMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roderick Williams, Sarah Connolly
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Narrator. They Took a Terrible VengeanceMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Terror. Burn Down Their Houses!Michael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Narrator. Men Were Ashamed of What Was DoneMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part II: A Spiritual of Anger. Go Down, MosesMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale, Roderick Williams
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Boy Sings in His Prison. My Dreams Are All Shattered in a Ghastly RealityMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Kenneth Tarver
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Mother. What Have I Done to You, My Son?Michael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Nadine Benjamin
A Child of Our Time, Part II: The Dark Forces Rise like a FloodMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sarah Connolly
A Child of Our Time, Part II: A Spiritual. O, by and ByMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale, Nadine Benjamin
A Child of Our Time, Part III: The Cold DeepensMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale
A Child of Our Time, Part III: The Soul of a Man Is Impassioned like a WomanMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sarah Connolly
A Child of Our Time, Part III: Scena. The Words of Wisdom Are TheseMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roderick Williams, London Philharmonic Choir, London Adventist Chorale
A Child of Our Time, Part III: PreludiumMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra
A Child of Our Time, Part III: General Ensemble. I Would Know My Shadow and My LightMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Kenneth Tarver, Roderick Williams, Nadine Benjamin, Sarah Connolly
A Child of Our Time, Part III: A Spiritual. Deep River, My Home Is over JordanMichael Tippett, Edward Gardner, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Kenneth Tarver, Roderick Williams, Nadine Benjamin, Sarah Connolly
Vinylscout