Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque vocal music with John Blow's "Anthems," a captivating collection of sacred choral works that showcase the composer's mastery and the splendor of the English choral tradition. Released in 1995, this album features the Winchester Cathedral Choir and The Parley of Instruments, conducted by David Hill, delivering a stunning performance that highlights the intricate harmonies and profound spirituality of Blow's compositions.
The album spans a generous 1 hour and 56 minutes, comprising 14 tracks that range from solemn hymns to jubilant anthems, each one a testament to Blow's skill in crafting music that resonates with both historical significance and timeless beauty. Standout pieces include "God Spake Sometime in Visions," a powerful and dramatic work, and "The Lord Is My Shepherd," a serene and comforting anthem that exemplifies Blow's ability to evoke deep emotion through music.
"Anthems" is not just a collection of songs; it's a journey through the sacred music of the Baroque era, performed with precision and passion by some of the finest musicians and vocalists of our time. The album's production, overseen by the esteemed Hyperion label, ensures that every nuance of Blow's compositions is captured with clarity and depth, providing an authentic and immersive listening experience.
Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, "Anthems" offers a compelling introduction to the works of John Blow, one of the most influential composers of the late 17th century. This album is a celebration of the human voice and the enduring power of sacred music to inspire and uplift.
God Spake Sometime in Visions, Coronation Anthem for James IIJohn Blow, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
How Doth the City Sit SolitaryJohn Blow, Stephen Varcoe, Robin Blaze, Joseph Cornwell, David Hill, The Parley of Instruments
The Lord Is My ShepherdJohn Blow, David Hill, Donald Sweeney, Joseph Cornwell, Robin Blaze, Stephen Alder, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
God Is Our Hope and StrengthJohn Blow, The Parley of Instruments, David Hill, Winchester Cathedral Choir
I Beheld, and Lo! a Great MultitudeJohn Blow, David Hill, Joseph Cornwell, Robin Blaze, Stephen Alder, Stephen Varcoe, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
Turn Thee unto Me, O LordJohn Blow, David Hill, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
Blessed Is the Man That Hath Not WalkedJohn Blow, David Hill, Joseph Cornwell, Robin Blaze, Stephen Alder, Stephen Varcoe, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
Lift Up Your Heads, O Ye GatesJohn Blow, Winchester Cathedral Choir, The Parley of Instruments, David Hill
O Lord, I Have SinnedJohn Blow, The Parley of Instruments, Robin Blaze, David Hill, Winchester Cathedral Choir, William Kendall, Stephen Varcoe
O Give Thanks unto the Lord, for He Is GraciousJohn Blow, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
O Lord, Thou Hast Searched Me Out and Known MeJohn Blow, Stephen Alder, Stephen Varcoe, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
Cry Aloud and Spare NotJohn Blow, Winchester Cathedral Choir, The Parley of Instruments, William Kendall, Stephen Alder, Joseph Cornwell, David Hill
Lord, Who Shall Dwell in Thy Tabernacle?John Blow, Joseph Cornwell, David Hill, Robin Blaze, Stephen Varcoe, The Parley of Instruments, Winchester Cathedral Choir
I Said in the Cutting Off of My DaysJohn Blow, Winchester Cathedral Choir, The Parley of Instruments, Robin Blaze, Joseph Cornwell, William Kendall, David Hill