Briggs: Mass for Notre Dame

Album Description

Experience the resplendent fusion of traditional and contemporary choral music with David Briggs' "Mass for Notre Dame." This captivating album, released in June 2010 under the Hyperion label, showcases Briggs' unique blend of native British and French choral influences, resulting in a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly innovative.

Recorded in July 2009, this album is a creative reunion for David Briggs and Stephen Layton, both former Organ Scholars at King's College, Cambridge. The Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge, under Layton's direction, brings to life Briggs' rich, sumptuous harmonies and ravishing melodic lines with a level of magnificence that is truly inspiring.

The album features a mix of choral and organ works, including Briggs' "Messe pour Notre-Dame," a stunning mass setting that is both reverent and contemporary. The album also includes organ improvisations by Briggs, demonstrating his virtuosity and creativity as an organist. Highlights include the hauntingly beautiful "Ubi caritas et amor" and the triumphant "Te Deum laudamus," followed by a thrilling organ toccata.

With a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album is a perfect addition to any classical music collection, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience. Whether you're a fan of choral music, organ music, or simply appreciate beautiful, well-crafted music, "Mass for Notre Dame" is sure to delight.

June 1, 2010

℗ 2010 Hyperion Records Limited

About David Briggs

David Briggs is a multifaceted musician whose career spans decades and genres. As a renowned organist and composer, Briggs has captivated audiences worldwide with his virtuosic performances and compositions. His extensive discography includes over 40 CDs, and his transcriptions of orchestral works and original compositions have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in contemporary organ music. Briggs' improvisational skills, heavily influenced by Jean Langlais and Pierre Cochereau, have earned him acclaim as one of the world's finest improvisers. Beyond his performing career, Briggs has also made significant contributions as a teacher, having instructed at prestigious institutions like Cambridge University. His artistic journey has taken him from his early days as a cathedral organist in the UK to his current residence in New York, where he continues to inspire and innovate. Additionally, Briggs has left an indelible mark on the music industry as a record producer, working with legendary artists such as Neil Young, Elvis Presley, and George Harrison. His work as a studio owner and songwriter further underscores his versatility and enduring impact on the music world.