Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of British choral tradition with Ralph Vaughan Williams' "Hymns & Choral Music," released on July 1, 2003, under the esteemed Chandos label. This classical gem spans a concise yet impactful 54 minutes, offering a diverse collection of hymns and choral pieces that showcase Vaughan Williams' mastery of the genre.
The album opens with the evocative "Come Down, O Love Divine," setting the tone for a journey through both familiar and lesser-known works. It features the enchanting "O Taste and See" and a selection of traditional English carols, including the lively "Wassail Song." Vaughan Williams' compositions, such as "Wither's Rocking Hymn" and "Sine nomine (For All The Saints)," are interspersed with sacred texts like the "Te Deum" and the "Communion Service in G Minor: Sanctus," highlighting his deep spiritual connection to his music.
The album also includes three choral hymns, each dedicated to significant Christian festivals: Easter, Christmas, and Whitsunday. These pieces, along with the "Festival Te Deum," demonstrate Vaughan Williams' ability to blend traditional hymnody with innovative choral writing.
For fans of classical choral music, this album is a treasure trove of Vaughan Williams' contributions to the genre. His distinctive style, characterized by modal harmonies and folk-inspired melodies, is evident throughout, making this a compelling addition to any classical music collection.
Vinylscout