Immerse yourself in the sacred and stirring choral works of the Wells Cathedral Choir with their 1991 release, "Music for Passiontide & Easter." This album, recorded between February 27 and March 1, 1991, is a profound exploration of the choral repertoire, spanning the solemnity of Passiontide to the jubilation of Easter. The choir, under the direction of Anthony Crossland and Andrew Nethsingha, delivers a captivating performance of 16 tracks, each meticulously chosen to reflect the spiritual depth and musical richness of the season.
The album opens with Thomas Tallis's "Salvator Mundi" and closes with "Light of the World," showcasing a diverse range of compositions from renowned composers. Notable pieces include "When David Heard," "The Lamentation," and "Crux Fidelis," which offer a poignant reflection on the Passion, while "This Joyful Eastertide" and "Ye Choirs of New Jerusalem" herald the joyous celebration of Easter. The choir's impeccable harmonies and dynamic range are particularly evident in the complex polyphonic works like "Cantiones Sacrae" and "Gradualia."
"Music for Passiontide & Easter" is not just a collection of choral pieces but a testament to the Wells Cathedral Choir's mastery and the enduring power of sacred music. Whether you're a choral enthusiast or simply seeking a moment of reflection, this album offers a timeless and moving listening experience. The Wells Cathedral Choir's pristine vocals and the thoughtful curation of the tracks make this a standout release in their discography.
(C) 1991 Priory Records(P) 1991 Priory Records
Tracks
Salvator mundiThomas Tallis, Wells Cathedral Choir, Anthony Crossland
When David HeardThomas Weelkes, Wells Cathedral Choir, Anthony Crossland
The LamentationEdward Bairstow, Wells Cathedral Choir, Andrew Nethsingha, Anthony Crossland
A Litany, C. 1William Walton, Wells Cathedral Choir, Anthony Crossland
The Chester Book of Motets, Book 1: No. 4, In monte OlivetiMarc' Antonio Ingegneri, Wells Cathedral Choir, Anthony Crossland
O vos omnesRichard Dering, Wells Cathedral Choir, Anthony Crossland
Crux fidelisAnonymous, Wells Cathedral Choir, Anthony Crossland
Crucifixus a 8Antonio Lotti, Wells Cathedral Choir, Anthony Crossland
This Joyful EastertideAnonymous, Wells Cathedral Choir, Anthony Crossland
Cantiones sacrae II: No. 32, Haec dies a 6William Byrd, Wells Cathedral Choir, Anthony Crossland
Psalms 113 & 114Henry Walford Davies, Henry Ley, Wells Cathedral Choir, Andrew Nethsingha, Anthony Crossland