Britten: The Five Canticles - Wigmore Hall Live - Benjamin Britten

Benjamin Britten's exquisite 'The Five Canticles - Wigmore Hall Live' is a masterful collection of musical works, showcasing the composer's profound ability to set songs and explore deeply religious implications. This album, released in 2013 to commemorate the centenary of Britten's birth, features five canticles written at various points in his career, including three that serve as memorials.

Recorded live at Wigmore Hall in London on 30 November 2012, this release brings together some of Britten's most poignant works, including 'Canticle I: My Beloved is Mine', 'Canticle II: Abraham and Isaac', 'Canticle III: Still Falls the Rain', 'Canticle IV: The Journey of the Magi', and 'Canticle V: The Death of Saint Narcissus'. With a total duration of 59 minutes, this classical music album is a testament to Britten's neoclassical and choral genius.

Featuring the captivating vocals of countertenor Iestyn Davies, 'The Five Canticles - Wigmore Hall Live' is a fitting tribute to Benjamin Britten's legacy. The album's release coincides with the 30th anniversary of the composer's passing, making it a poignant reminder of his enduring impact on the world of classical music. Released on the Wigmore Hall Live label, this album is an essential addition to any classical music collection, offering a unique glimpse into the works of one of the 20th century's most revered composers.

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.