Quilter: Folk-Song Arrangements / Part-Songs for Women's Voices

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Roger Quilter's "Folk-Song Arrangements / Part-Songs for Women's Voices," a captivating collection that showcases the composer's mastery of English folk music and choral arrangements. Released on April 1, 2005, this album is a treasure trove of 36 beautifully crafted songs, spanning a duration of approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes.

Quilter, known for his delicate and evocative settings of poetry and folk songs, presents a diverse array of pieces that range from tender ballads to lively, spirited tunes. The album features a mix of solo and choral works, highlighting the rich textures and harmonies that Quilter was renowned for. Among the standout tracks are the hauntingly beautiful "The Arnold Book of Old Songs" series, the lively "Love at the Inn" set, and the evocative "The Rose of Tralee."

This recording, released by Naxos, includes several world premières, offering both seasoned fans and newcomers to Quilter's music a unique opportunity to explore his complete folk-song arrangements and part-songs for women's voices. The performances are brought to life by a talented ensemble of vocalists, including Philip Langridge, Amanda Pitt, Joanne Thomas, and David Wilson-Johnson, who lend their voices to these timeless compositions with sensitivity and skill.

Whether you're a lover of classical choral music, English folk songs, or simply appreciate beautifully crafted melodies, this album is a delightful addition to any music collection. Quilter's ability to weave together traditional folk tunes with his own distinctive style creates a sound that is both familiar and fresh, making this album a true gem for anyone who appreciates the art of vocal music.

April 1, 2005

2005 Naxos

About Roger Quilter

Roger Quilter (1877-1953) was a distinguished British composer renowned for his exquisite art songs, which have become a cornerstone of the English vocal repertoire. Born into a wealthy family in Hove, Quilter's musical journey began at Eton and continued at Dr Hoch's Konservatorium in Frankfurt, where he studied alongside notable contemporaries. His compositions, over a hundred in number, often set music to texts by literary greats such as William Shakespeare, Robert Herrick, and Percy Bysshe Shelley, showcasing his deep appreciation for poetry and his gift for melody. Quilter's works, characterised by their elegance and impressionistic piano accompaniments, are essential for any classical singer's repertoire. Beyond his art songs, Quilter also contributed to the world of choral, instrumental, and stage works, with notable pieces including his Children’s Overture and the light opera 'Where the Rainbow Ends'. His legacy endures as a testament to his refined musical style and enduring influence on English art song.