Finzi: Earth and Air and Rain / To A Poet / By Footpath and Stile

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gerald Finzi's vocal music with this captivating album, featuring three distinct song cycles that showcase the composer's unique blend of lyrical beauty and emotional depth. Recorded in 2005 and released in 2006 by Naxos, this collection spans a total of 22 tracks, with a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes.

At the heart of the album is "Earth and Air and Rain," a mature masterpiece inspired by the poetry of Thomas Hardy. This cycle, composed in 1925, is a testament to Finzi's ability to translate the essence of Hardy's words into evocative musical landscapes. The album also includes "To a Poet," a collection of songs that pay homage to the enduring power of poetry, and "By Footpath and Stile," an early work that demonstrates Finzi's burgeoning talent for setting English poetry to music.

The album features the stellar performance of sturdy English baritone Roderick Williams, accompanied by the Sacconi Quartet, who bring Finzi's compositions to life with their rich, expressive interpretations. Whether you're a seasoned fan of English vocal music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the works of Gerald Finzi, one of the most significant British composers of the 20th century.