Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of English choral music with Charles Villiers Stanford's "Partsongs," a captivating collection of secular vocal works that showcase the composer's mastery of the genre. Released in 2014 by SOMM Recordings, this album is a treasure trove of Stanford's compositions, featuring a diverse range of pieces that span his prolific career.
With a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Stanford's partsongs, including the renowned Op. 119 set to poems by Mary Coleridge. The album features 25 tracks, each a testament to Stanford's skill in crafting intricate harmonies and evocative melodies. From the pastoral charm of "Elizabethan Pastorales" to the poignant beauty of "Songs of Faith," every piece is a testament to Stanford's enduring legacy in the world of choral music.
Charles Villiers Stanford, born in 1852, was a pivotal figure in the development of English music, known for his contributions to both sacred and secular choral works. His partsongs, in particular, are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and technical virtuosity, making this album an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
Whether you're a longtime admirer of Stanford's work or a newcomer to his music, "Partsongs" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's diverse selection of pieces, expertly performed and recorded, provides a deep dive into the world of English choral music, highlighting Stanford's unique voice and enduring influence.
2014 SOMM Recordings2014 (P) SOMM Recordings
Tracks
On Time, Op. 142Charles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
To ChlorisCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
6 Elizabethan Pastorales, Set 1, Op. 49: No. 2, Corydon, Arise!Charles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
8 Partsongs, Op. 119: No. 6, The SwallowCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
6 Elizabethan Pastorales, Set 2, Op. 53: No. 3, Praised Be DianaCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
6 Elizabethan Pastorales, Set 2, Op. 53: No. 2, Like Desert WoodsCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
4 Pt. Songs, Op. 106: No. 3, To His FlocksCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
6 Elizabethan Pastorales, Set 2, Op. 53: No. 1, On a Hill There Grows a FlowerCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
8 Partsongs, Op. 119: No. 3, The Blue BirdCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
6 Elizabethan Pastorales, Set 3, Op. 67: No. 3, Shall We Go Dance?Charles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
8 Partsongs, Op. 127: No. 3, When Mary Thro' the Garden WentCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
6 Elizabethan Pastorales, Set 1, Op. 49: No. 3, DiapheniaCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
8 Partsongs, Op. 127: No. 4, The HavenCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
3 Part-Songs, Op. 111: No. 1, A Lover's DittyCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
Songs of Faith, Op. 97: No. 2, God and the UniverseCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
Peace, Come AwayCharles Villiers Stanford, Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir, Paul Spicer
Charles Villiers Stanford, an Anglo-Irish composer, conductor, and music teacher, left an indelible mark on the late Romantic era. Born into a musically inclined family in Dublin, Stanford's journey took him from the halls of the University of Cambridge to the vibrant music scenes of Leipzig and Berlin. His compositions, particularly his choral works and requiems, are celebrated for their emotional depth and technical mastery. Stanford was not just a composer but also a mentor to many of Britain's finest musical talents, serving as Professor of Music at Cambridge and Professor of Composition at the Royal College of Music. His influence extended beyond his compositions, as he elevated the status of the Cambridge University Musical Society, attracting international stars to perform with it. Stanford's legacy endures, inspiring both scholars and enthusiasts alike with his rich musical heritage.
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Charles Villiers Stanford
