Immerse yourself in the rich, late-Romantic soundscape of Gustav Holst's "The Cloud Messenger, A Choral Fantasia & Part-Songs," a captivating collection of choral and orchestral works that showcases the British composer's unique blend of folk influences and Hindu philosophy. Released in 1990 on the Chandos label, this album spans over two hours and features 24 tracks, including the sumptuous "The Cloud Messenger" and the evocative "A Choral Fantasia."
Holst, born in 1874, is renowned for his innovative compositions, and this album offers a rare opportunity to explore some of his lesser-known works. The "Seven Part-Songs" and "Four Part-Songs" provide a glimpse into Holst's mastery of choral writing, while pieces like "The Hymn of Jesus" and "Ave Maria" demonstrate his ability to create deeply moving sacred music.
Performed by the London Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, with Della Jones lending her stunning vocals to several tracks, this album is a testament to Holst's enduring appeal and the timeless beauty of his music. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album is sure to enchant and inspire.
1999 Chandos Records1999 Chandos Records
Tracks
The Cloud Messenger, H. 111: O thou, who com'st from heaven's kingGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, London Symphony Orchestra, Della Jones, London Symphony Chorus
The Cloud Messenger, H. 111: Tarry not, O Cloud, tarry not. Rushing northward . . .Gustav Holst, Richard Hickox, London Symphony Orchestra, Della Jones, London Symphony Chorus
The Cloud Messenger, H. 111: Tarry not, O Cloud, tarry notGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, London Symphony Orchestra, Della Jones, London Symphony Chorus
The Cloud Messenger, H. 111: Tarry not, O Cloud. Bow thy headGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, London Symphony Orchestra, Della Jones, London Symphony Chorus
The Cloud Messenger, H. 111: When the dancers are weary . . .Gustav Holst, Richard Hickox, London Symphony Orchestra, Della Jones, London Symphony Chorus
The Hymn of Jesus, H. 140: PreludeGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, London Symphony Orchestra, London Symphony Chorus
The Hymn of Jesus, H. 140: The HymnGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, London Symphony Orchestra, London Symphony Chorus
Ave Maria, H. 49, Op. 9b: Ave Maria, H. 49, Op. 9bGustav Holst, Finzi Singers, Paul Spicer
The Evening-watch, H. 159: The Evening-watch, H. 159Gustav Holst, Finzi Singers, Paul Spicer, Susanna Spicer, Mark Milhofer
Seven Part-Songs, H. 162, Op. 44: No. 1, Say who is this?Gustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Patricia Rozario, Joyful Company Of Singers
Seven Part-Songs, H. 162, Op. 44: No. 2, O Love, I complainGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Patricia Rozario, Joyful Company Of Singers
Seven Part-Songs, H. 162, Op. 44: No. 3, Angel spirits of sleepGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Patricia Rozario, Joyful Company Of Singers
Seven Part-Songs, H. 162, Op. 44: No. 4, When first we metGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Patricia Rozario, Joyful Company Of Singers
Seven Part-Songs, H. 162, Op. 44: No. 5, Sorrow and joyGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Patricia Rozario, Joyful Company Of Singers
Seven Part-Songs, H. 162, Op. 44: No. 6, Love on my heart from Heaven fellGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Patricia Rozario, Joyful Company Of Singers
Seven Part-Songs, H. 162, Op. 44: No. 7, Assemble, all ye maidensGustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Patricia Rozario, Joyful Company Of Singers
A Choral Fantasia, H. 177: A Choral Fantasia, H. 177Gustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Patricia Rozario, Joyful Company Of Singers
A Dirge for Two Veterans, H. 121: A Dirge for Two Veterans, H. 121Gustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Joyful Company Of Singers
Ode to Death, H. 144: Ode to Death, H. 144Gustav Holst, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, London Symphony Chorus
This have I done for my true love, H. 128: This have I done for my true love, H. 128Gustav Holst, Finzi Singers, Paul Spicer, Rachel Wheatley
Four Part-Songs: No. 1, O lady, leave that silken threadGustav Holst, Finzi Singers, Paul Spicer
Four Part-Songs: No. 2, Soft and gentlyGustav Holst, Finzi Singers, Paul Spicer
Four Part-Songs: No. 3, The autumn is oldGustav Holst, Finzi Singers, Paul Spicer
Four Part-Songs: No. 4, Winter and the birdsGustav Holst, Finzi Singers, Paul Spicer
Vinylscout