"Songs for Sir John" is a captivating tribute to the influential British composer and educator, Sir John Manduell, brought to life by the extraordinary Lesley-Jane Rogers. Released on 11 September 2020 under the Divine Art label, this operatic album spans a rich 72 minutes, offering a diverse collection of 22 tracks that showcase Rogers' exceptional talent and her deep connection to contemporary music.
The album is a testament to Rogers' prowess, featuring nearly 200 first performances and several dedicated compositions. Her collaboration with notable musicians such as John Turner, Laura Robinson, and others adds depth and richness to the album. The tracks range from evocative pieces like "Men Improve with the Years" and "The Cold Heaven" to whimsical nursery rhymes and intricate instrumental compositions, demonstrating a wide emotional and stylistic range.
"Songs for Sir John" is not just a celebration of Manduell's legacy but also a showcase of Lesley-Jane Rogers' artistry and her commitment to contemporary classical music. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
2020 Divine Art2020 Divine Art
Tracks
Men Improve with the YearsRobin Stevens, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
SonnetElis Pehkonen, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
The Cold HeavenMartin Bussey, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
ReflectionGeoffrey Poole, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
Yeats InterludeSally Beamish, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
Be StillMichael Ball, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
Those ImagesDavid Horne, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
2 Yeats Songs, Op. 23b: No. 1, LullabyDavid Matthews, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
2 Yeats Songs, Op. 23b: No. 2, Sweet DancerDavid Matthews, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
Zuzu's PetalsKevin Malone, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
This Great Purple ButterflyGary Carpenter, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
Strings in the Earth and Air (Version for Soprano, Recorder, Oboe, Violin & Cello)Peter Dickinson, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
3 Pieces for 2 Recorders: No. 1, ModeratoLennox Berkeley, John Turner, Laura Robinson
3 Pieces for 2 Recorders: No. 2, MinuetLennox Berkeley, John Turner, Laura Robinson
3 Pieces for 2 Recorders: No. 3, AllegroLennox Berkeley, John Turner, Laura Robinson
4 Nursery Rhymes to Texts by Thomas Pitfield: No. 1, The Shipwrecked SailorRobin Walker, Richard Baker, John Turner, Keith Swallow
4 Nursery Rhymes to Texts by Thomas Pitfield: No. 2, Lilly PickleRobin Walker, Richard Baker, John Turner, Keith Swallow
4 Nursery Rhymes to Texts by Thomas Pitfield: No. 3, Staring MoonRobin Walker, Richard Baker, John Turner, Keith Swallow
4 Nursery Rhymes to Texts by Thomas Pitfield: No. 4, Cat and MouseRobin Walker, Richard Baker, John Turner, Keith Swallow
The Cat and the MoonJeremy Pike, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Benedict Holland, Nicholas Trygstad
Into the TwilightNicholas Marshall, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Susie Meszaros, Nicholas Trygstad
The Cloths of Heaven (Version for Soprano, Recorder, Oboe, Viola & Cello)Naji Hakim, Lesley-Jane Rogers, John Turner, Richard Simpson, Susie Meszaros, Nicholas Trygstad
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