Celebrate four decades of musical excellence with the Vasari Singers' "Heaven Full of Stars," a captivating choral journey released in 2020 to commemorate the ensemble's 40th anniversary. Under the steadfast direction of Jeremy Backhouse, the Vasari Singers deliver a stunning collection of 18 tracks that span a variety of genres, including choral, requiem, and minimalism, all within a concise 81-minute duration.
This album is a testament to the Vasari Singers' enduring artistry and their ability to breathe new life into both traditional and contemporary compositions. From the ethereal beauty of "Stars (Version for Mixed Choir)" to the hauntingly beautiful "Ave Maria (Arr. for Choir & Organ)," each piece is performed with precision and passion, showcasing the ensemble's remarkable vocal prowess. The album also features several original compositions and arrangements, such as "2 Human Hymns: No. 2, Like to the Falling of a Star" and "For the Beauty of the Earth (Version for Mixed Choir & Organ)," which add a unique and modern touch to the collection.
"Heaven Full of Stars" is not just a celebration of the Vasari Singers' past but also a look towards their future. With its diverse range of styles and genres, this album is a testament to the ensemble's versatility and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of choral music. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Vasari Singers or a newcomer to their work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The album is released on the renowned Naxos label and comes in a standard jewel case with a clear tray and a 20-page booklet, providing an enriching experience for both the ears and the eyes.
2020 Naxos2020 Naxos
Tracks
Stars (Version for Mixed Choir)Ēriks Ešenvalds, Elizabeth Limb, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Seek Him That Maketh the Seven StarsJonathan Dove, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
O salutaris hostia (Version for Mixed Choir)Ēriks Ešenvalds, Jocelyn Somerville, Susan Waton, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Viri GalilaeiPatrick Gowers, Paul Robertson, Richard Semmens, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Ave Maria (Arr. for Choir & Organ)Philip Stopford, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Aurea luceCecilia McDowall, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
O crux aveRihards Dubra, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Deus est caritasRoxanna Panufnik, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Christ Is the Morning StarWill Todd, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
For the Beauty of the Earth (Version for Mixed Choir & Organ)John Rutter, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Ave maris stellaPaul Mealor, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
2 Human Hymns: No. 2, Like to the Falling of a StarJudith Weir, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Lux aurumque (Version for Mixed Choir)Eric Whitacre, Harriet Gritton, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Creator of the Stars of NightGabriel Jackson, Elizabeth Limb, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Salisbury Motets: No. 1, I Sing of a MaydenBob Chilcott, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Salisbury Motets: No. 2, When to the Temple Mary WentBob Chilcott, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Salisbury Motets: No. 3, Lovely Tear of Lovely EyeBob Chilcott, Muriel Daniels, Sarah Mistry, Martin Ford, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Salisbury Motets: No. 4, Hail, Star of the Sea Most RadiantBob Chilcott, Elizabeth Limb, Rachel Robinson, Stephanie May, Sarah Mistry, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse