Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Grace Williams' 1998 album, a captivating blend of sacred and secular choral works that showcase her mastery of composition. This album, released under the esteemed Chandos label, is a testament to Williams' ability to evoke a sense of worship and reverence through her music.
The album opens with "The Dancers," a five-movement suite that is both lively and introspective, followed by two choruses that are as hauntingly beautiful as they are powerful. "Ave Maris Stella," a traditional Marian hymn, is rendered with a sense of devotion that is truly moving.
The final six tracks are settings of poems by Gerard Manley Hopkins, a poet known for his innovative use of language and rhythm. Williams' settings of these poems are a testament to her ability to capture the essence of the words and translate them into music that is both accessible and profound.
With a running time of just under an hour, this album is a perfect introduction to the work of Grace Williams, one of the most important British composers of the 20th century. Whether you're a fan of choral music, a lover of poetry, or simply someone looking for something beautiful and uplifting, this album is sure to delight.
1998 Chandos Records1998 Chandos Records
Tracks
The Dancers: I. Gather for FestivalGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: II. TarantellaGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: III. RoundelayGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: IV. Lose the Pain in the SnowGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: V. To the Wild Hills!Grace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
Two Choruses: I. Harp Song of the Dane WomenGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Richard Hickox Singers, Frank Lloyd, Cristopher Larkin, Caryl Thomas
Two Choruses: II. Mariners' SongGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Richard Hickox Singers, Frank Lloyd, Cristopher Larkin, Caryl Thomas
Ave Maris StellaGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Richard Hickox Singers
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: I. Pied BeautyGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: II. PeaceGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: III. Spring and FallGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: IV. No worst, there is none…Grace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: V. Hurrahing the HarvestGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: VI. The WindhoverGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
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