Shared Ground, the 2011 choral masterpiece by Alec Roth, is a captivating journey through sound and time, blending ancient texts with contemporary composition. Released on Signum Records, this album spans a generous 91 minutes, featuring 18 tracks that weave together a tapestry of human experience and natural beauty.
Alec Roth, a renowned composer, has crafted a work that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. The album begins with the three-part "Earthrise," which explores humanity's relationship with the planet, from exploration and exploitation to contemplation and a plea for wisdom. The "Hymn to Gaia" sections draw from Homeric and Orphic texts, paying homage to the Earth in ancient poetic forms. "Sol Justitiae" adds a touch of the divine, while "The Flower" closes the album with a delicate and introspective note.
The album is brought to life by the Ex Cathedra Choir, conducted by Jeffrey Skidmore, with Philippe Honoré on violin. The vocal performances are complemented by a stellar cast of soloists, including sopranos Grace Davidson and Katie Trethewey, and mezzo-soprano Martha McLorinan. The ensemble's precision and passion breathe life into Roth's intricate compositions, making Shared Ground a standout in the choral genre.
Shared Ground is not just an album of choral music; it's an exploration of humanity's connection to the natural world, a celebration of ancient texts, and a testament to the power of contemporary composition. Whether you're a fan of choral music, classical music, or simply appreciate beautifully crafted soundscapes, this album is sure to resonate with you.
Alec Roth is a versatile English composer, born near Manchester in 1948, with a rich heritage of German and Irish descent. With over 60 commissioned works to his credit, Roth's compositions span a wide array of genres, including opera, music-theatre, choral, orchestral, and instrumental pieces. He is particularly renowned for his collaborations with the acclaimed Indian writer Vikram Seth, notably the opera 'Arion and the Dolphin'. His music often draws from diverse cultural influences, as seen in his 2012 cantata 'A Time to Dance', which is rooted in American musical heritage. Roth's works, such as 'Song of the Shepherds', showcase his ability to craft evocative and engaging pieces that resonate with audiences. Currently based in Malvern, Worcestershire, Alec Roth continues to enrich the musical landscape with his distinctive and captivating compositions.
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