The Choir of Westminster Abbey, under the inspirational direction of James O'Donnell, presents a sublime collection of music for the Feast of St Michael and All Angels. Released on 1 September 2007 by Hyperion, this album is a masterful exploration of the rich repertoire of the liturgy in its historical context within the revered walls of Westminster Abbey.
This exquisite recording features a diverse range of choral works, including 'Factum est silentium', 'The Preces and Responses', and 'Psalm 148 "Laudate Dominum"', showcasing the choir's remarkable versatility and technical prowess. The album also includes 'Messe solennelle' by Louis-Claude Daquin, with its intricate harmonies and soaring melodies, as well as 'A Sequence for St Michael' and 'Laus Deo', which demonstrate the choir's ability to convey the dramatic and visionary texts of Michaelmas.
With a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of choral music, spanning genres such as medieval, requiem, and Gregorian chant. James O'Donnell's expert direction brings out the very best in The Choir of Westminster Abbey, resulting in a truly unforgettable listening experience. The choir's stunning performances are perfectly complemented by the majestic organ playing of Peter Holder, adding depth and richness to the overall sound.
The Feast of St Michael & All Angels at Westminster Abbey is a testament to the choir's dedication to preserving and promoting the sacred music tradition. This album is a must-listen for fans of choral music, offering a unique glimpse into the historic and cultural heritage of Westminster Abbey. With its beautiful music, outstanding performances, and impeccable production, this recording is sure to delight and inspire all who listen.
Factum est silentiumRichard Dering, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell, Robert Quinney
The Preces and Responses: I. The PrecesKenneth Leighton, Francis Brett, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Psalm 148 "Laudate Dominum"Charles Villiers Stanford, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Te Deum in G MajorRalph Vaughan Williams, Robert Quinney, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
Jubilate Deo in CBenjamin Britten, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell
The Preces and Responses: II. The ResponsesKenneth Leighton, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Francis Brett, James O'Donnell
Messe solennelle: I. KyrieJean Langlais, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Robert Quinney
Messe solennelle: II. GloriaJean Langlais, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Julian Empett, James O'Donnell, Robert Quinney
Messe solennelle: III. SanctusJean Langlais, James O'Donnell, Robert Quinney, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Messe solennelle: IV. BenedictusJean Langlais, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell, Robert Quinney
Messe solennelle: V. Agnus DeiJean Langlais, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Plebs angelicaMichael Tippett, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
Psalm 91 "Qui habitat"Walter Galpin Alcock, Robert Quinney, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
Magnificat & Nunc dimittis "Collegium Sancti Johannis Cantabrigiense": I. MagnificatMichael Tippett, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell
Magnificat & Nunc dimittis "Collegium Sancti Johannis Cantabrigiense": II. Nunc dimittisMichael Tippett, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Robert Macdonald, Robert Quinney, Nicholas Trapp, Julian Stocker, James O'Donnell, Benjamin Turner
A Sequence for St MichaelHerbert Howells, Jacob Ewens, James O'Donnell, Mark Dobell, Robert Quinney, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey