Alec Roth: A Time to Dance & Other Choral Works

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Alec Roth's "A Time to Dance & Other Choral Works," a captivating exploration of time, seasons, and the human experience. Released in 2016, this choral masterpiece is a testament to Roth's unique compositional voice, blending traditional choral elements with contemporary sensibilities. The album features the renowned Ex Cathedra choir, conducted by Jeffrey Skidmore, delivering a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply resonant.

At the heart of the album is the oratorio "A Time to Dance," a celebration of life's cycles and transitions. Comprising 26 movements, this expansive work takes the listener on a journey through various times and seasons, each track offering a unique perspective on the passage of time and the beauty of the natural world. From the stirring "Processional 'Times and Seasons'" to the reflective "Epilogue 'Sunrise'," Roth's compositions are imbued with a sense of wonder and introspection.

In addition to "A Time to Dance," the album includes the "Hatfield Service" Magnificat and Nunc dimittis, showcasing Roth's versatility and mastery of choral writing. The album concludes with "Men and Angels," a piece that adds a layer of spiritual depth to the collection.

With a duration of just over an hour, "A Time to Dance & Other Choral Works" is a rich and rewarding listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned choral enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a wealth of musical treasures to discover. The meticulous attention to detail in both the compositions and the performances ensures that each listen reveals new layers of beauty and complexity.

29 januari 2016

℗ 2016 Hyperion Records Limited

About Alec Roth

Alec Roth is a versatile English composer, born near Manchester in 1948, with a rich heritage of German and Irish descent. With over 60 commissioned works to his credit, Roth's compositions span a wide array of genres, including opera, music-theatre, choral, orchestral, and instrumental pieces. He is particularly renowned for his collaborations with the acclaimed Indian writer Vikram Seth, notably the opera 'Arion and the Dolphin'. His music often draws from diverse cultural influences, as seen in his 2012 cantata 'A Time to Dance', which is rooted in American musical heritage. Roth's works, such as 'Song of the Shepherds', showcase his ability to craft evocative and engaging pieces that resonate with audiences. Currently based in Malvern, Worcestershire, Alec Roth continues to enrich the musical landscape with his distinctive and captivating compositions.