Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of choral music with Roderick Williams' latest album, "A Birthday Garland," released on March 15, 2024, under SOMM Recordings. This captivating collection of 30 tracks, spanning a total of 1 hour and 16 minutes, is a tribute to the timeless compositions of Ralph Vaughan Williams, expertly performed by the renowned baritone Roderick Williams and accompanied by the talented pianist Susie Allan.
Recorded in 2023 at The Menuhin Hall in Stoke d'Abernon, UK, this album is a testament to the enduring beauty of Vaughan Williams' music. The tracklist is a diverse array of songs, ranging from folk-inspired pieces like "Linden Lea" and "Down by the Salley Gardens" to more contemplative works such as "Darest Thou Now, O Soul" and "A Clear Midnight." Each piece is a masterclass in vocal and piano accompaniment, showcasing the depth and versatility of both Roderick Williams and Susie Allan.
"A Birthday Garland" is not just a celebration of Vaughan Williams' musical legacy but also a journey through the rich tapestry of English choral music. The album includes works from other notable composers as well, such as Ina Boyle and Max Bruch, adding an extra layer of depth and variety to the listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. Don't miss out on this exquisite collection of musical gems, available now on CD and digital platforms.
2024 SOMM Recordings2024 SOMM Recordings
Tracks
The Splendour FallsRalph Vaughan Williams, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
5 Songs: No. 3, Fortune and Her WheelCharles Wood, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
Linden LeaRalph Vaughan Williams, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
Chanson écossaise, M.A 12Maurice Ravel, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
12 Schottische Volkslieder: No. 6, O sahst du den Vater?Max Bruch, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
Down by the Salley GardensRebecca Clarke, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
2 Welsh Folk Songs: No. 1, Jim CroGrace Williams, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
Folk Songs from Sussex: No. 9, Roving in the DewGeorge Butterworth, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
Darest Thou Now, O Soul, H. 72Gustav Holst, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
A Last InvocationIna Boyle, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
ReconciliationIvor Gurney, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
3 Poems by Walt Whitman: No. 2, A Clear MidnightRalph Vaughan Williams, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
Songs of Faith, Op. 97: No. 6, Joy, Shipmate, Joy!Charles Villiers Stanford, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
4 Baritone Songs, Op. 4b: No. 4, The PulleyRuth Gipps, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
5 Mystical Songs: No. 4, The CallRalph Vaughan Williams, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
2 Poems by Seumas O'Sullivan: No. 1, The Twilight PeopleRalph Vaughan Williams, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
5 Songs, Op. 2: No. 4, The Sorrow of LoveHerbert Howells, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
4 Shakespeare Songs: No. 2, The Wind and the RainElizabeth Maconchy, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
English Lyrics, Set 6: No. 6, Under the Greenwood TreeSir Charles Hubert Parry, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
7 Shakespeare Songs: No. 7, Take, O Take Those Lips AwayMadeleine Dring, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
3 Songs from Shakespeare: No. 2, When Icicles Hang by the WallRalph Vaughan Williams, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
Let Us Garlands Bring, Op. 18: No. 2, Who Is Silvia?Gerald Finzi, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
Songs of Travel: No. 9, I Have Trod the Upward and the Downward SlopeRalph Vaughan Williams, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
4 Last Songs: No. 4, MenelausRalph Vaughan Williams, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
A Square and Candle-Lighted Boat: No. 1, Bedroom DawnSarah Cattley, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
A Square and Candle-Lighted Boat: No. 2, The Coast. NorfolkSarah Cattley, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
A Square and Candle-Lighted Boat: No. 3, Bicker's CottageSarah Cattley, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
A Square and Candle-Lighted Boat: No. 4, The Country BedroomSarah Cattley, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
A Square and Candle-Lighted Boat: No. 5, Waking in the Attic BedroomSarah Cattley, Roderick Williams, Susie Allan
Roderick Williams, a celebrated British baritone and composer, has captivated audiences worldwide with his rich, resonant voice and versatile repertoire. Born in London in 1965 to a Welsh father and Jamaican mother, Williams has become one of the most sought-after baritones of his generation. His performances span a wide range of styles, from baroque to contemporary music, enchanting listeners in opera houses, concert halls, and recital venues alike. With a career that includes appearances on acclaimed albums such as "Rutter: Mass of the Children" and "The Official Album of The Coronation: The Complete Recording," Williams has solidified his status as a true master of his craft. His ability to connect with audiences and bring stories to life through song makes every performance a memorable experience.
Vinylscout
Roderick Williams
