Ahoy! Sing for the Mary Rose

Ahoy! Sing for the Mary Rose is a captivating choral cantata composed by Alexander L'Estrange, released in 2013 under the Andagio label. This 45-minute album is a unique blend of traditional sea shanties and original compositions, all centered around the historic Mary Rose, King Henry VIII's famous warship. The album features a mix of SATB chorus, children's choir, and a small band, creating a rich and dynamic sound that brings the maritime tales to life.

The tracklist includes a variety of engaging pieces such as "Overture," "Sam's Gone Away," and "Greensleeves," as well as original compositions like "Full Fathom Five" and "Up She Rises!" The album concludes with an encore of "The Water Is Wide (O Waly Waly)," providing a fitting finale to this nautical journey through music.

Commissioned by the Portsmouth Festivities in partnership with the Mary Rose Trust, Ahoy! Sing for the Mary Rose commemorates the discovery of the Mary Rose and offers a musical exploration of its history. The album is a testament to Alexander L'Estrange's skill in weaving together historical narratives and musical artistry, resulting in a compelling and enjoyable listening experience.