Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of English choral music with "There Is Sweet Music: English Choral Songs, 1890-1950" by The Cambridge Singers, directed by the renowned John Rutter. Released in 2002 under the Collegium label, this captivating album spans a golden era of choral composition, showcasing a diverse collection of 20 tracks that highlight the elegance and depth of English choral tradition.
The Cambridge Singers, known for their pristine harmonies and expressive performances, bring to life a carefully curated selection of works by some of the most celebrated composers of the time. The album features a blend of part-songs, folk arrangements, and Shakespearean settings, each piece meticulously chosen to represent the essence of English choral music from the late 19th to the mid-20th century.
From the serene beauty of Edward Elgar's "There Is Sweet Music" to the lively folk arrangements of Percy Grainger and the evocative Shakespeare songs, this album offers a comprehensive journey through a century of musical evolution. The Cambridge Singers' impeccable phrasing and Rutter's insightful direction ensure that every note resonates with clarity and emotional resonance.
Whether you are a seasoned choral music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "There Is Sweet Music" promises a delightful and enriching listening experience. The album's 56-minute duration is a testament to the enduring appeal of these timeless compositions, making it a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.
2002 Collegium2002 Collegium
Tracks
8 Part-Songs, Op. 119: No. 3, The Blue BirdCharles Villiers Stanford, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
2 Unaccompanied Part-Songs, RT IV/5: No. 1, To Be Sung of a Summer Night on the Water IFrederick Delius, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
2 Unaccompanied Part-Songs, RT IV/5: No. 2, To Be Sung of a Summer Night on the Water IIFrederick Delius, Mark Padmore, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
4 Part Songs, Op. 53: No. 1, There Is Sweet MusicEdward Elgar, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
3 Part Songs, Op. 18: No. 3, My Love Dwelt in a Northern LandEdward Elgar, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
3 Shakespeare Songs: No. 1, Full Fathom FiveRalph Vaughan Williams, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
3 Shakespeare Songs: No. 2, The Cloud-Capp'd TowersRalph Vaughan Williams, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
3 Shakespeare Songs: No. 3, Over Hill, Over DaleRalph Vaughan Williams, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
The Sailor and Young Nancy (Arr. E.J. Moeran for Choir)Ernest John Moeran, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Brigg Fair (Arr. P. Grainger for Choir)Percy Grainger, Philip Sheffield, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Irish Tune from County Derry, BFMS 29 (Arr. P. Grainger for Choir)Percy Grainger, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
The 3 Ravens: The Three Ravens (Arr. E.T. Chapman for Choir)Edward T Chapman, Nicholas Sears, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
12 Welsh Folk Songs, H. 183: No. 9, My Sweetheart’s Like Venus (Arr. G. Holst for Choir)Traditional, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
The Oak and the Ash (Arr. E. Bairstow for Choir)Edward Bairstow, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
Quick! We Have But a Second (Arr. C.V. Stanford for Choir)Charles Villiers Stanford, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
5 Flower Songs, Op. 47: No. 1, To DaffodilsBenjamin Britten, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
5 Flower Songs, Op. 47: No. 2, The Succession of the Four Sweet MonthsBenjamin Britten, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
5 Flower Songs, Op. 47: No. 3, Marsh FlowersBenjamin Britten, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
5 Flower Songs, Op. 47: No. 4, The Evening PrimroseBenjamin Britten, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter
5 Flower Songs, Op. 47: No. 5, Ballad of Green BroomBenjamin Britten, The Cambridge Singers, John Rutter