The Feast of St Edward at Westminster Abbey

Album Description

Experience the sacred and serene atmosphere of Westminster Abbey with "The Feast of St Edward at Westminster Abbey," a captivating choral album released on September 1, 2006, by Hyperion. This album, led by the esteemed Robert Quinney, offers a unique glimpse into the liturgical services that might be heard on the Feast of St Edward, celebrated on October 13th. The album features the renowned Westminster Abbey Choir, conducted by James O'Donnell, delivering a rich and resonant performance that showcases the beauty of choral music in a historic and revered setting.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, the album presents a carefully curated selection of 17 tracks that include traditional hymns, psalms, and liturgical pieces. Highlights include the majestic "Te Deum" by Charles Villiers Stanford, the solemn "Missa brevis" by William Byrd, and the evocative "Evening Service in G Minor" by Henry Purcell. The album also features lesser-known works such as "Os justi meditabitur sapientiam" by Anton Bruckner and "The King and the Robin," adding depth and variety to the collection.

The album is a testament to the skill and dedication of the performers, with Robert Quinney's direction and James O'Donnell's conducting bringing out the best in the choir. The acoustics of Westminster Abbey lend an added dimension to the recordings, providing a sense of the space's grandeur and history. Whether you are a fan of choral music, a lover of classical music, or simply seeking a moment of peace and reflection, "The Feast of St Edward at Westminster Abbey" offers a profound and enriching listening experience.

September 1, 2006

℗ 2006 Hyperion Records Limited

About Robert Quinney

Robert Quinney is a renowned English organist and choral director, celebrated for his dynamic performances and scholarly contributions to the world of music. Born in Nottingham, his musical journey began as a chorister at Dundee Cathedral, where he discovered his passion for the organ at the tender age of ten. Quinney's academic prowess and musical talent led him to King's College, Cambridge, where he served as Organ Scholar and completed his undergraduate and graduate studies. His career has seen him hold prestigious positions, including Sub-Organist at Westminster Abbey and Director of Music at Peterborough Cathedral. Currently, he serves as the Director of the Choir of New College, Oxford, where he continues to inspire and educate the next generation of musicians. Quinney's performances are noted for their technical precision and emotional depth, making him a favorite among audiences worldwide. Beyond his performing career, he is also an accomplished writer and educator, sharing his knowledge and passion for music through teaching and academic research.