Dive into the sacred and evocative world of Kenneth Leighton's choral masterpieces with this exquisite collection, released by Naxos in 2004. This album is a testament to Leighton's profound musicality and his deep connection to the sacred choral tradition. The album features two of his most celebrated works: "An Easter Sequence" and "Crucifixus pro Nobis," each offering a unique exploration of faith and devotion through rich, intricate compositions.
"An Easter Sequence," scored for boys' voices, organ, and trumpet, is a vibrant and uplifting celebration of the Easter season. The sequence is divided into six movements, each capturing the essence of the first Sunday after Easter and the anticipation of Ascension Day. The inclusion of a trumpet adds a triumphant and joyous dimension to the choral textures, making this piece a standout in Leighton's repertoire.
"Crucifixus pro Nobis," on the other hand, is a deeply reflective and introspective work. This cantata for tenor, chorus, and organ delves into the profound themes of Christ's suffering and redemption. The piece is divided into four movements, each exploring different aspects of Christ's journey from the cradle to the cross, culminating in a powerful hymn.
The album also includes other notable works by Leighton, such as the "Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis" settings, which showcase his mastery of choral writing and his ability to evoke a sense of reverence and awe. The "Rockingham" chorale prelude and the anthem "What Love Is This of Thine?" further highlight Leighton's versatility and his deep understanding of the choral tradition.
Performances on this album are brought to life by the renowned St. John's College Choir, Cambridge, under the direction of Christopher Robinson. Their precise and expressive singing brings out the full beauty and depth of Leighton's compositions, making this album a true gem for lovers of sacred choral music. With a total duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Kenneth Leighton's sacred choral works, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience.
2004 Naxos2004 Naxos
Tracks
Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis "Collegium Magdalenae Oxoniense": MagnificatKenneth Leighton, Christopher Robinson, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis "Collegium Magdalenae Oxoniense": Nunc DimittisKenneth Leighton, Christopher Robinson, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
Give Me the Wings of FaithKenneth Leighton, Christopher Robinson, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
An Easter Sequence: Introit (For the First Sunday After Easter)Kenneth Leighton, Benjamin Durrant, Gareth Jones, Christopher Robinson, Crispian Steele-Perkins, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
An Easter Sequence: Gradual (for the First Sunday After Easter)Kenneth Leighton, Benjamin Durrant, Gareth Jones, Christopher Robinson, Crispian Steele-Perkins, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
An Easter Sequence: Offertory (for the First Sunday After Easter)Kenneth Leighton, Benjamin Durrant, Gareth Jones, Christopher Robinson, Crispian Steele-Perkins, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
An Easter Sequence: Communion (for the First Sunday After Easter)Kenneth Leighton, Benjamin Durrant, Gareth Jones, Christopher Robinson, Crispian Steele-Perkins, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
An Easter Sequence: Sortie (Antiphon at First Vespers of Ascension Day)Kenneth Leighton, Benjamin Durrant, Gareth Jones, Christopher Robinson, Crispian Steele-Perkins, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
Veni creator spiritusKenneth Leighton, Christopher Whitton
What Love Is This of Thine?Kenneth Leighton, Benjamin Durrant, Christopher Robinson, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
Crucifixus pro Nobis, Op. 38: Christ in the CradleKenneth Leighton, James Oxley, Christopher Robinson, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
Crucifixus pro Nobis, Op. 38: Christ in the GardenKenneth Leighton, James Oxley, Christopher Robinson, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
Crucifixus pro Nobis, Op. 38: Christ in his PassionKenneth Leighton, James Oxley, Christopher Robinson, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
Crucifixus pro Nobis, Op. 38: HymnKenneth Leighton, James Oxley, Christopher Robinson, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
Rockingham (Chorale Prelude on "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross")Kenneth Leighton, Christopher Whitton
MagnificatKenneth Leighton, Christopher Robinson, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis, Op. 62 "The Second Service": Nunc DimittisKenneth Leighton, Christopher Robinson, Christopher Whitton, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
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.
Vinylscout
Kenneth Leighton
