That Sweet City

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kenneth Leighton's choral masterpiece, "That Sweet City," a captivating exploration of spring's arrival and the beauty of nature. Released on October 25, 2024, via Signum Records, this album is a celebration of life and renewal, featuring the renowned Choir of the Queen's College, Oxford, accompanied by the Britten Sinfonia and distinguished soloists Rowan Atkinson, Nick Pritchard, and Owen Rees.

The centerpiece of the album is Leighton's "Veris gratia, Op. 6," a ten-movement composition that paints a vivid musical portrait of the spring season. From the gentle "Prelude" to the triumphant "Epilogue," each movement offers a unique perspective on the wonders of nature and the human experience. The album also includes "An Oxford Elegy," a poignant piece that showcases the choir's exquisite harmonies and the soloists' expressive performances.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 1 minute, "That Sweet City" is a testament to Kenneth Leighton's compositional genius and the choir's exceptional musicianship. The album's lush orchestration and intricate vocal arrangements create a rich tapestry of sound that will captivate listeners from start to finish. Whether you're a longtime fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Kenneth Leighton, born in Wakefield in 1929, was a prolific British composer and pianist whose musical journey took him from the choir stalls of Wakefield Cathedral to the esteemed halls of Oxford and Edinburgh universities. Throughout his career, Leighton composed over 100 works, with a particular penchant for vocal and sacred music. His compositions span a wide range of genres, including church and choral music, instrumental pieces, chamber music, concertos, symphonies, and even an opera. Leighton's sacred choral works are particularly notable, reflecting his deep engagement with religious texts and his mastery of the choral form. His organ works, ranging from expressive to exuberant, showcase his versatility and depth as a composer. Leighton's legacy endures in his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire and move audiences with its emotional resonance and technical brilliance.