Every Living Creature

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kenneth Leighton's choral masterpieces with "Every Living Creature," a captivating album released on May 19, 2023, by SOMM Recordings. This collection, spanning 1 hour and 13 minutes, is a testament to Leighton's enduring legacy, marking the 35th anniversary of his passing with five premiere recordings that showcase his unique compositional voice.

The album features the renowned Londinium Chamber Choir, conducted by Andrew Griffiths, delivering a mesmerizing performance of Leighton's choral works. The centerpiece of the album is "Laudes animantium, Op. 61," a seven-movement work that celebrates the beauty and diversity of the natural world through evocative settings of texts inspired by animals. From the delicate "The Nightingale" to the powerful "The Tyger," each movement is a testament to Leighton's ability to capture the essence of his subjects in music.

In addition to "Laudes animantium," the album includes a selection of Leighton's carols and hymns, showcasing his versatility as a composer. Highlights include the lullaby-like "Lully, Lulla, Thou Tiny Little Child" and the jubilant "The Seven Joys of Mary," both part of the "3 Carols, Op. 25" set. The album also features several standalone works, such as the reflective "An Evening Hymn" and the exuberant "London Town."

"Every Living Creature" is not just a collection of beautiful choral music; it's an exploration of Kenneth Leighton's artistic vision, offering insights into his creative process and his deep connection to the natural world. Whether you're a longtime fan of Leighton's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. So, sit back, relax, and let the enchanting sounds of Kenneth Leighton's choral masterpieces transport you to a world of beauty and wonder.

May 19, 2023

2023 SOMM Recordings

About Kenneth Leighton

Kenneth Leighton, born in Wakefield in 1929, was a prolific British composer and pianist whose musical journey took him from the choir stalls of Wakefield Cathedral to the esteemed halls of Oxford and Edinburgh universities. Throughout his career, Leighton composed over 100 works, with a particular penchant for vocal and sacred music. His compositions span a wide range of genres, including church and choral music, instrumental pieces, chamber music, concertos, symphonies, and even an opera. Leighton's sacred choral works are particularly notable, reflecting his deep engagement with religious texts and his mastery of the choral form. His organ works, ranging from expressive to exuberant, showcase his versatility and depth as a composer. Leighton's legacy endures in his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire and move audiences with its emotional resonance and technical brilliance.