Immerse yourself in the serene and contemplative world of "Lighten Our Darkness: Music for the Close of Day" by The Cambridge Singers, directed by the renowned John Rutter. Released in 2006 under the Collegium label, this choral masterpiece spans a tranquil hour and forty minutes, offering a rich tapestry of sacred music designed to accompany the Office of Compline, the final service of the day in the Christian liturgy.
This album is a carefully curated collection of a cappella motets, primarily from the Renaissance period, alongside contemporary compositions. It features works by esteemed composers such as John Sheppard, alongside pieces by John Rutter himself. The recording captures the ethereal beauty of the Lady Chapel at Ely Cathedral, providing an acoustically rich and spiritually uplifting experience.
The Cambridge Singers, known for their impeccable blend and expressive phrasing, deliver a performance that is both technically precise and deeply moving. The album includes well-known pieces like "Ave Maria" and "Salve Regina," as well as lesser-known gems that collectively create a sense of tranquility and reflection. Whether you are a fan of choral music or simply seeking a moment of peace, this album offers a profound and enriching listening experience.
2006 Collegium2006 Collegium
Tracks
In paceJohn Sheppard, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Libera nos, salva nosJohn Sheppard, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Justorum animaeOrlande de Lassus, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Pater nosterJacobus Gallus, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
O Lord, the Maker of All ThingWilliam Mundy, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Visita, quaesumus DomineWilliam Byrd, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Abendlied, Op. 69 No. 3Josef Rheinberger, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
O Christ Who Art the Light and DayWilliam Byrd, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
O Gladsome LightLouis Bourgeois, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Te lucis ante terminumThomas Tallis, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Alma Redemptoris MaterTomás Luis de Victoria, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Ave Regina caelorumTomás Luis de Victoria, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Regina caeli laetareTomás Luis de Victoria, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Salve ReginaTomás Luis de Victoria, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Ave MariaFrancisco Guerrero, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
All-Night Vigil, Op. 37 "Vespers": No. 6, Ave MariaSergei Rachmaninoff, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
In manus tuasWilliam Byrd, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
In manus tuasJohn Sheppard, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Opening Sentences and ResponsesAnonymous, John Harte, Simon Wall, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Psalm 91Anonymous, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Lesson: Come unto MeAnonymous, John Harte, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Respond: Into Thy HandsAnonymous, Simon Wall, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Hymn: Before the Ending of the DayAnonymous, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Keep Me as the Apple of an Eye - Nunc dimittisAnonymous, Simon Wall, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
The Apostles' Creed - Lord's PrayerAnonymous, Simon Wall, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Versicles and ResponsesAnonymous, Simon Wall, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Confession and AbsolutionAnonymous, John Harte, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Responses and CollectsAnonymous, Simon Wall, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
We Will Lay Us Down in PeaceAnonymous, Simon Wall, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Closing Responses and BlessingAnonymous, John Harte, The Cambridge Singers
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