Experience the resplendent voices of the Gloucester Cathedral Choir in this captivating collection of sacred choral works by Louis Vierne and Jean Langlais. Released on March 23, 1997, via Priory Records, this album showcases the choir's exceptional skill and the rich acoustics of Gloucester Cathedral, making it a standout recording in the choral genre.
The album opens with Vierne's grand "Messe solennelle, Op. 16," a work that demands both technical prowess and expressive depth from the choir. The five movements of this mass are performed with clarity and fervor, highlighting the choir's ability to convey both the solemnity and the jubilation of the text. Following this, the album presents Langlais' own "Messe solennelle, Op. 67," another substantial work that offers ample opportunity for the choir to display their full range of dynamics and tonal colors.
In addition to these two masses, the album includes a selection of other works by both composers, providing a broader context for their choral writing. Vierne's "3 Paraphrases grégoriennes, Op. 5: No. 3" and "9 Pieces, Op. 40 (Excerpts)" offer a taste of his more contemplative side, while Langlais' "Hymne d'actions de grâce 'Te Deum'" is a triumphant celebration of faith.
Under the direction of Mark Lee, and with David Briggs at the organ, the Gloucester Cathedral Choir delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving. The album's duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes offers a substantial exploration of these composers' choral works, making it an essential addition to any fan of sacred choral music.
Vinylscout