Immerse yourself in the somber yet majestic compositions of Henry Purcell with "Purcell: Funeral Sentences," a profound exploration of the English Baroque master's choral and instrumental works. Released in January 1994 by Decca Music Group Ltd., this album is a meticulous collection of Purcell's Funeral Sentences for the death of Queen Mary II, alongside other notable pieces, offering a rich tapestry of classical and choral music.
The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "The Queen's Funeral March (Procession)" and continues with a series of deeply moving anthems and instrumental works, including "Thou Knowest Lord," "Man that is born of woman," and "In the midst of life." These pieces, performed by esteemed ensembles such as the Winchester Cathedral Choir and the Baroque Brass of London, under the direction of David Hill, showcase Purcell's mastery of both choral and instrumental composition.
Beyond the funeral sentences, the album features a diverse range of Purcell's works, including the uplifting "Rejoice In The Lord Alway," the reflective "Remember not, Lord, our offences," and the stirring "Jehova, quam multi sunt hostes mei." Each track is a testament to Purcell's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music, from solemnity and contemplation to joy and exultation.
"Purcell: Funeral Sentences" is not just a collection of historical pieces but a living testament to Purcell's enduring legacy. The album's duration of one hour and five minutes provides a comprehensive journey through Purcell's choral and instrumental repertoire, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you are familiar with Purcell's work or discovering it for the first time, this album offers a profound and enriching experience.
Funeral Sentences for the death of Queen Mary II: The Queen's Funeral March (Procession)Henry Purcell, Baroque Brass Of London, David Hill
Funeral Sentences for the death of Queen Mary II (1695): CanzonaHenry Purcell, Baroque Brass Of London, David Hill
Funeral Sentences for the death of Queen Mary II (1695): Thou Knowest Lord, Z58BHenry Purcell, Winchester Cathedral Choir, Baroque Brass Of London, David Hill
Funeral Sentences for the death of Queen Mary II (1695): The Queen's Funeral March (recession)Henry Purcell, Baroque Brass Of London, David Hill
Funeral Sentences for the death of Queen Mary II (1695): Man that is born of woman, Z27 (c1680-2)Henry Purcell, Winchester Cathedral Choir, Baroque Brass Of London, David Hill
Funeral Sentences for the death of Queen Mary II (1695): In the midst of life, Z17B (before 1682)Henry Purcell, Winchester Cathedral Choir, Baroque Brass Of London, David Hill
Funeral Sentences for the death of Queen Mary II (1695): Thou knowest Lord, Z58CHenry Purcell, Baroque Brass Of London, Geraint Watkins, Timothy Pride, Julian Podger, Donald Sweeney, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
Rejoice In The Lord Alway, Z.49Henry Purcell, Brandenburg Consort, Christopher Robson, William Kendall, Stephen Roberts, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
Remember not, Lord, our offences (Z.50)Henry Purcell, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
Voluntary in C, Z717Henry Purcell, David Hill
Give sentence with me, O God, Z12Henry Purcell, William Kendall, Peter Butterfield, Donald Sweeney, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
Jehova, quam multi sunt hostes mei (Z.135)Henry Purcell, Julian Podger, Donald Sweeney, Hilary Brooks, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
O, I'm sick of life, Z140Henry Purcell, William Kendall, Julian Podger, Donald Sweeney, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
Voluntary in G, Z720Henry Purcell, David Hill
"My beloved spake" (Z.28)Henry Purcell, Brandenburg Consort, Christopher Robson, William Kendall, Stephen Roberts, Donald Sweeney, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
Hear my prayer, O Lord, Z.15Henry Purcell, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
O God, Thou art my God, Z35Henry Purcell, Hilary Brooks, Winchester Cathedral Choir, David Hill
Henry Purcell, born in 1659 in Westminster, London, is celebrated as England's greatest composer of the Baroque era. Despite his tragically short life, ending at the age of 36 in 1695, Purcell's prolific output and innovative spirit have left an indelible mark on classical music. Known for his over 100 enchanting songs, the heart-wrenching opera "Dido and Aeneas," and his magical incidental music for "The Fairy Queen," a adaptation of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Purcell's compositions continue to captivate audiences worldwide. His profound influence earned him the title "Orpheus Britannicus" and solidified his status as a pioneer of English music from the Restoration period until the early 20th century. Purcell's musical genius transcends time, making his works essential listening for any classical music enthusiast.
Vinylscout
Henry Purcell
