"Young Composers 5" is a captivating collection of new choral works by four exceptionally talented young composers, brought to life by the National Youth Choir of Great Britain. This album, released on January 26, 2024, under NMC Recordings, showcases the vibrant and imaginative compositions of Millicent B. James, Will Harmer, Emily Hazrati, and Alex Tay. With a vivid use of texture and challenging writing, each piece offers a unique exploration of choral music, making it a standout addition to any classical enthusiast's collection.
The album opens with "Children of the Forest" by Millicent B. James, followed by a trio of madrigals by Will Harmer: "Spring in All Her Glory," "Sweet Eyes," and "Sing We at Pleasure." These pieces are followed by "One Thousand Threads" by Emily Hazrati, and "RainFlow’rs" by Alex Tay. The album also features "Fireworks," "DEEP (HUH?!) [Abridged]," "khāné (meditations on home)," and "Finding Your Home," each contributing to the diverse and rich tapestry of sounds and themes.
"Young Composers 5" is a testament to the National Youth Choir of Great Britain's commitment to nurturing young talent and pushing the boundaries of choral music. With a duration of 43 minutes, this album is a rewarding introduction to the works of these promising composers, offering a fresh and inspiring perspective on contemporary choral music.