Bryn Terfel, the renowned Welsh bass-baritone, delivers a captivating collection of sacred and secular choral works in "Simple Gifts." Released in 2005 under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album showcases Terfel's remarkable vocal range and versatility, taking listeners on a journey through a diverse array of musical styles and compositions.
The album features a mix of well-known pieces and hidden gems, all beautifully arranged and adapted by Chris Hazell. From the hauntingly beautiful "Ave Verum Corpus" by Mozart to the uplifting "The Lord Bless You and Keep You" by John Rutter, and the timeless "Amazing Grace" arranged by Hazell, each track is a testament to Terfel's artistry and the power of these timeless compositions.
"Simple Gifts" spans a variety of genres, including opera, requiem, classical, and choral music, offering a rich and varied listening experience. The album includes works by renowned composers such as Pergolesi, Franck, Jenkins, and Gounod, as well as traditional pieces and contemporary arrangements. Notable tracks include "Deep River," "How Great Thou Art," and "Morning Has Broken," each performed with Terfel's signature warmth and depth.
Conducted by Barry Wordsworth, the album benefits from a lush and supportive orchestral accompaniment, enhancing the overall listening experience. With a duration of just over an hour, "Simple Gifts" is a perfect blend of familiar favorites and lesser-known treasures, all brought to life by one of the most celebrated voices in classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bryn Terfel or new to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Mozart: Ave verum corpus, K.618 - Adapted by Chris HazellWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Traditional: Deep River - Arranged by Chris HazellTraditional, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Rutter: The Lord Bless You and Keep YouJohn Rutter, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Murray: I'll Walk Beside You - Arranged by Chris HazellAlan Murray, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Pergolesi: Stabat Mater: 1. Stabat MaterGiovanni Battista Pergolesi, Bryn Terfel, Simon Keenlyside, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Still, Still, Still Weils Kindlein Schlafen WillTraditional, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Simple Gifts - Arranged by Chris HazellJoseph Brackett, Jr., Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
How Great Thou ArtTraditional, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Franck: Messe solennelle en la majeur, Op. 12 FWV 61: 5. Panis Angelicus - Arranged By Chris HazellCésar Franck, Aled Jones, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Brahe: Bless this house - Arranged by Chris HazellMay Brahe, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Jenkins: Ave verum CorpusKarl Jenkins, Bryn Terfel, Simon Keenlyside, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Myers: Cavatina - Arranged by Chris HazellStanley Myers, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, John C. Williams
The RoseAmanda McBroom, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Carrell: Amazing Grace - Arranged by Chris HazellJames P. Carrell, David S. Clayton, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Gwynn Williams: God's MercyWilliam Sydney Gwynn Williams, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Traditional: Morning Has BrokenTraditional, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Mason: Nearer My God To Thee - Arranged by Chris HazellLowell Mason, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Gounod, J.S. Bach: Ave MariaCharles Gounod, Johann Sebastian Bach, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Send in the Clowns - Arranged by Jonathan TunickStephen Sondheim, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
God will be with YouWilliam G. Tomer, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Myers: Cavatina - Arranged by Chris Hazell - iTunes / BonusStanley Myers, Bryn Terfel, John C. Williams, Gerald Newson