Experience the enchanting voices of The Choir of Southwark Cathedral as they present "The Message of Christmas," a captivating collection of traditional carols and seasonal favorites. Released on June 18, 2021, via Priory Records, this 59-minute album is a celebration of the holiday season, featuring 22 tracks that blend timeless classics with unique arrangements.
Under the direction of Peter Wright and Stephen Layton, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral delivers a performance that is both powerful and intimate. The album opens with three distinct arrangements of "Adam Lay Ybounden," showcasing the choir's versatility and the rich tapestry of musical styles that define this collection. From the hauntingly beautiful "In the Bleak Midwinter" to the joyous "Wassail Carol," each track is a testament to the choir's exceptional skill and the enduring appeal of these beloved songs.
"The Message of Christmas" is not just a compilation of carols; it is a journey through the sounds and stories of the season. The choir's precise harmonies and dynamic range bring depth and warmth to each piece, making this album a standout addition to any music lover's collection. Whether you're a fan of traditional choral music or simply looking for a way to enhance your holiday celebrations, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
2021 Priory Records2021 Priory Records
Tracks
Adam Lay Ybounden (1)Boris Ord, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
Adam Lay Ybounden (2)Sir Philip Ledger, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
Adam Lay Ybounden (Arr. for Voice & Organ)Peter Warlock, Stephen Layton
The Lord at First Did Adam Make (Arr. D. Willcocks for Choir & Organ)Traditional, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
Gabriel's Message (Arr. E. Pettman for Choir)Traditional, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright
I Sing of a Maiden (Arr. for Choir & Organ)Patrick Hadley, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
I Sing of a MaidenLennox Berkeley, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
There is No Rose of Such VirtueTraditional, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright
There is No Rose of Such Virtue, Op. 14John Joubert, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
Shepherd's Pipe Carol (Version for Mixed Choir & Organ)John Rutter, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
In the Bleak MidwinterHarold Darke, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day (Arr. D. Willcocks for Choir)Traditional, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright
Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing DayJohn Gardner, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
3 Carol Lullabies: No. 3, Lute-Book LullabyPiers Maxim, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright
Weihnachtslieder, Op. 8: No. 3b, Die Könige (Arr. for A Capella Choir) [Sung in English]Peter Cornelius, Robert Rice, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright
Here Is the Little DoorHerbert Howells, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright
Coventry Carol (Arr. for Choir)Traditional, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Stephen Layton
3 Carols, Op. 25: No. 2, Lully, Lulla, Thou Little Tiny ChildKenneth Leighton, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright
Joys Seven (Arr. S. Cleobury for Choir & Organ)Traditional, Patrick Thorburn, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright
Wassail Carol, Op. 26 No. 1William Mathias, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton
The LambJohn Tavener, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright
Sussex Carol (Arr. P. Ledger for Choir & Organ)Traditional, The Choir of Southwark Cathedral, Peter Wright, Stephen Layton