Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of storytelling through music with John Rutter's "3 Musical Fables." Released on October 1, 2003, under the Collegium label, this captivating album spans a diverse range of genres, primarily choral and Christmas music, offering a rich and varied listening experience.
The album is a delightful collection of three distinct musical narratives, each bringing to life classic tales with Rutter's signature charm and elegance. The first part, "The Wind in the Willows," is a whimsical journey through the adventures of Rat, Mole, Badger, and the ever-impulsive Toad. This suite of ten movements beautifully captures the essence of Kenneth Grahame's beloved novel, from the serene life on the river to the thrilling recapture of Toad Hall.
Following this, "Brother Heinrich's Christmas" transports you to a medieval abbey, where the story of Brother Heinrich and his quest to create a new carol unfolds. This seven-movement work is a heartwarming tale of faith, creativity, and the magic of Christmas, perfect for the holiday season.
The album concludes with "The Reluctant Dragon," a playful and humorous retelling of the classic story. With eight movements, this suite takes you from the dragon's cave to the thrilling tournament, culminating in a joyous banquet fugue.
John Rutter's masterful compositions, combined with the exquisite performances, make "3 Musical Fables" a timeless addition to any music lover's collection. The album's duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes ensures a fulfilling and engaging experience from start to finish. Whether you're a fan of choral music, a lover of classic tales, or simply seeking a unique and enjoyable listening experience, this album is sure to delight.
(C) 2003 Collegium(P) 2003 Collegium
Tracks
The Wind in the Willows: No. 1, IntroductionJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 2, Rat and Mole Meet (A Life on the River)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 3, Scene at Badger's HouseJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, Colin Mason, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 4, Toad's CarJohn Rutter, Richard Baker
The Wind in the Willows: No. 5, Court SceneJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Simon Carrington, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 6, Toad in Gaol (Let Me Tickle Your Fancy)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Jeremy Jackman, Bill Ives, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 7, Toad's Song (I've Got Style)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Bill Ives, The King's Singers, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 8, The Recapture of Toad Hall (Let's Wallop a Weasel)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, Colin Mason, Bill Ives, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 9, The Banquet at Toad HallJohn Rutter, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, Colin Mason, Bill Ives, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 10, Finale. Home Is a Special Kind of FeelingJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, Colin Mason, Bill Ives, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 1, IntroductionJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 2, Sigismund Sings in the Abbey ChoirJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, The Cambridge Singers, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 3, Sigismund Is DismissedJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 4, Brother Heinrich and the New CarolJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 5, The Angels Appear on Christmas EveJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, The Cambridge Singers, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 6, Brother Heinrich Writes Down the Angels' CarolJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 7, Christmas MorningJohn Rutter, Brian Kay
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 8, The Angels' Carol and Christmas DinnerJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, The Cambridge Singers, City of London Sinfonia
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 1, IntroductionJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 2, The Boy Visits the Dragon's CaveJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Jeremy Jackman, Bill Ives, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 3, The Villagers and St. George ArriveJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 4, I Say, Old BoyJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, Jeremy Jackman, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 5, Planning the Tournament (First He Waves His Spear Around)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, Jeremy Jackman, The King's Singers, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 6, The TournamentJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, Jeremy Jackman, Simon Carrington, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 7, Banquet FugueJohn Rutter, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 8, Finale. Let's Begin AgainJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, Jeremy Jackman, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox