Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of choral music with "Britten: Gloriana Dances – Bliss: Pastoral 'Lie Strewn the White Flocks' – Holst: Rig Veda Hymns" by The Holst Singers. Released in 1988 under the Hyperion label, this album is a captivating blend of choral and minimalist genres, spanning a total of 12 tracks and a duration of one hour.
The Holst Singers, conducted by Hilary Davan Wetton, deliver a mesmerizing performance that showcases the beauty and complexity of these classical pieces. The album opens with Britten's "Choral Dances from Gloriana," a suite of dances that are both lively and intricate. Following this, the album delves into the serene and pastoral world of Arthur Bliss's "Lie Strewn the White Flocks," a work that evokes the tranquility of nature and the simplicity of rural life.
The final section of the album is dedicated to Gustav Holst's "Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda," a collection of hymns that draw inspiration from ancient Indian scriptures. These hymns are characterized by their rich harmonies and profound spiritual depth, offering a unique and transcendent listening experience.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding exploration of some of the most beautiful and enduring works in the choral repertoire. The Holst Singers' impeccable musicianship and Hilary Davan Wetton's sensitive conducting bring these pieces to life in a way that is both engaging and deeply moving.
Choral Dances from Gloriana (1967 Version)Benjamin Britten, Hilary Davan Wetton, The Holst Singers, Martyn Hill, Thelma Owen
Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda III, Op. 26 No. 3, H. 99: I. Hymn to the DawnGustav Holst, Hilary Davan Wetton, Thelma Owen, The Holst Singers
Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda III, Op. 26 No. 3, H. 99: II. Hymn to the WatersGustav Holst, The Holst Singers, Hilary Davan Wetton, Thelma Owen
Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda III, Op. 26 No. 3, H. 99: III. Hymn to Vena "The Sun Rising Through the Mist"Gustav Holst, Hilary Davan Wetton, The Holst Singers, Thelma Owen
Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda III, Op. 26 No. 3, H. 99: IV. Hymn of the TravellersGustav Holst, Hilary Davan Wetton, The Holst Singers, Thelma Owen
Pastoral "Lie Strewn the White Flocks": I. The Shepherds' HolydayArthur Bliss, Hilary Davan Wetton, Holst Orchestra, The Holst Singers
Pastoral "Lie Strewn the White Flocks": II. A Hymn to PanArthur Bliss, Hilary Davan Wetton, Holst Orchestra, The Holst Singers, Judith Pearce
Pastoral "Lie Strewn the White Flocks": III. Pan's SarabandArthur Bliss, Hilary Davan Wetton, Holst Orchestra, Judith Pearce
Pastoral "Lie Strewn the White Flocks": IV. Pan and Echo – The Naiads' MusicArthur Bliss, Holst Orchestra, The Holst Singers, Judith Pearce, Hilary Davan Wetton
Pastoral "Lie Strewn the White Flocks": V. The Pigeon SongArthur Bliss, Shirley Minty, Holst Orchestra, Hilary Davan Wetton, Judith Pearce
Pastoral "Lie Strewn the White Flocks": VI. The Song of the ReapersArthur Bliss, Holst Orchestra, The Holst Singers, Judith Pearce, Hilary Davan Wetton
Pastoral "Lie Strewn the White Flocks": VII. The Shepherd's Night-SongArthur Bliss, Hilary Davan Wetton, The Holst Singers, Judith Pearce, Holst Orchestra