Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gerald Finzi's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, released on November 18, 2002, under the Naxos label. Spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes, this collection showcases Finzi's exquisite compositional prowess and his deep connection to the English choral tradition.
The album opens with three anthems from Op. 27, including the stirring "God Is Gone Up" and the tender "My Lovely One." Finzi's Magnificat, Op. 36, follows, offering a serene and uplifting exploration of the biblical text. The album also features the poignant "Thou Didst Delight My Eyes" from Op. 32 and the evocative "Let Us Now Praise Famous Men" from Op. 35.
A highlight of the collection is the set of seven partsongs from Op. 17, each a gem in its own right. From the delicate "I Praise the Tender Flower" to the exuberant "Haste on, My Joys!", these pieces demonstrate Finzi's ability to capture the essence of poetry in music. The album concludes with the powerful and introspective "Lo, the Full, Final Sacrifice" from Op. 26.
Performed by the renowned Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, under the direction of Christopher Robinson, with Christopher Whitton on the organ, this album is a testament to Finzi's enduring appeal and the timeless beauty of his music. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Finzi's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
(C) 2002 Naxos(P) 2002 Naxos
Tracks
3 Anthems, Op. 27: No. 2, God Is Gone UpGerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Whitton, Christopher Robinson
Magnificat, Op. 36Gerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Whitton, Christopher Robinson
3 Anthems, Op. 27: No. 1, My Lovely OneGerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Whitton, Christopher Robinson
3 Anthems, Op. 27: No. 3, Welcome Sweet and Sacred FeastGerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Whitton, Christopher Robinson
Thou Didst Delight My Eyes, Op. 32Gerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Robinson
Let Us Now Praise Famous Men, Op. 35Gerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Whitton, Christopher Robinson
7 Partsongs, Op. 17: No. 1, I Praise the Tender FlowerGerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Robinson
7 Partsongs, Op. 17: No. 2, I Have Loved Flowers That FadeGerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Robinson
7 Partsongs, Op. 17: No. 3, My Spirit Sang all DayGerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Robinson
7 Partsongs, Op. 17: No. 4, Clear and Gentle StreamGerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Robinson
7 Partsongs, Op. 17: No. 5, NightingalesGerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Robinson
7 Partsongs, Op. 17: No. 6, Haste on, My Joys!Gerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Robinson
7 Partsongs, Op. 17: No. 7, Wherefore Tonight So Full of CareGerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Robinson
Lo, the Full, Final Sacrifice, Op. 26Gerald Finzi, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Christopher Whitton, Christopher Robinson