Britten: Saint Nicolas, Hymn to St Cecilia & Rejoice in the Lamb

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Benjamin Britten's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, released on October 21, 2013, by Kings College Cambridge. This collection showcases three of Britten's most celebrated works: "Saint Nicolas," "Hymn to St. Cecilia," and "Rejoice in the Lamb," each offering a unique blend of classical, requiem, opera, neoclassical, and choral elements.

"Saint Nicolas," a cantata for tenor, boys' choir, and orchestra, narrates the life of Saint Nicholas through nine evocative movements. From his birth to his miraculous deeds and eventual death, Britten's composition is a testament to the saint's enduring legacy. The work is based on a libretto by Eric Crozier, a frequent collaborator of Britten, who also co-wrote the opera "Albert Herring."

Complementing "Saint Nicolas" are two of Britten's most beloved choral works. "Hymn to St. Cecilia," a celebration of the patron saint of music, is a joyous and uplifting piece that highlights Britten's mastery of choral writing. "Rejoice in the Lamb," set to a text by Christopher Smart, is a jubilant and exuberant composition that showcases the full range of the choir's capabilities.

Performed by the renowned Britten Sinfonia and recorded in glorious surround sound, this album offers an unparalleled listening experience. With a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, it is a perfect addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. The album's tracklist includes:

Saint Nicolas: I. Introduction
Saint Nicolas: II. The Birth of Nicolas
Saint Nicolas: III. Nicolas devotes himself to God
Saint Nicolas: IV. He journeys to Palestine
Saint Nicolas: V. Nicolas comes to Myra and is chosen Bishop
Saint Nicolas: VI. Nicolas from Prison
Saint Nicolas: VII. Nicolas and the Pickled Boys
Saint Nicolas: VIII. His piety and marvellous works
Saint Nicolas: IX. The Death of Nicolas
Hymn to Saint Cecilia
Rejoice in the Lamb

Whether you're a longtime fan of Benjamin Britten or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to delight and inspire.

Benjamin Britten, born on St. Cecilia's Day in 1913, was a titan of 20th-century British music, renowned for his profound contributions to opera, choral works, and orchestral compositions. As a child prodigy, Britten began composing at the age of five, and his musical genius blossomed throughout his life, making him a central figure in British classical music. His operas, such as the haunting "Peter Grimes," are celebrated as some of the finest in the English language since Henry Purcell. Britten's "War Requiem," a powerful anti-war piece, remains one of his most enduring works. Beyond his compositions, Britten was also an exceptional pianist and conductor, leaving an indelible mark on the musical world. His legacy continues to inspire, with his works performed and cherished by audiences worldwide.