Kenneth Leighton: Sacred Choral Works

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and serene world of Kenneth Leighton's choral compositions with this exquisite collection of his sacred choral works. Released in 2019 to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the composer's birth, this album is a testament to Leighton's mastery of the choral genre, spanning his entire career. The Choir of St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh, under the direction of Duncan Ferguson, brings these pieces to life with stunning precision and reverence.

Recorded in the cathedral's own hallowed halls between March 11 and 15, 2019, this album offers a unique blend of Leighton's earliest and final works for unaccompanied choir, alongside three enchanting Christmas carols and two monumental masterpieces. The collection also includes two pieces specifically composed for the Choir of St Mary's Cathedral, providing a deeply personal and authentic connection to the music.

The album features 15 tracks, including the powerful "Awake my Glory" and the tender "Lully, lulla, thou little tiny child," showcasing the breadth and depth of Leighton's compositional skills. Whether you're a longtime admirer of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. With a total duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, it's a perfect addition to any classical music collection, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience.

December 12, 2019

(P) 2019 Delphian Records LTD

About Kenneth Leighton

Kenneth Leighton, born in Wakefield in 1929, was a prolific British composer and pianist whose musical journey took him from the choir stalls of Wakefield Cathedral to the esteemed halls of Oxford and Edinburgh universities. Throughout his career, Leighton composed over 100 works, with a particular penchant for vocal and sacred music. His compositions span a wide range of genres, including church and choral music, instrumental pieces, chamber music, concertos, symphonies, and even an opera. Leighton's sacred choral works are particularly notable, reflecting his deep engagement with religious texts and his mastery of the choral form. His organ works, ranging from expressive to exuberant, showcase his versatility and depth as a composer. Leighton's legacy endures in his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire and move audiences with its emotional resonance and technical brilliance.