Three Christmas Cantatas

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of choral Christmas music with Sir David Willcocks' "Three Christmas Cantatas." This captivating album, released on November 4, 2022, under Heritage Records, is a celebration of the holiday season, featuring a blend of traditional and lesser-known works that showcase the rich tapestry of choral music.

The album spans a total of 21 tracks, divided into two main cantatas: "In Praise of Mary" and "A Ceremony Of Carols." Each piece is meticulously conducted by the renowned Sir David Willcocks, bringing out the depth and beauty of these timeless compositions. The performances are by the Royal College of Music Chamber Choir, known for their precision and emotive delivery.

"In Praise of Mary" is a six-part cantata that includes beloved carols such as "There is no rose" and "Adam lay y-bounden," as well as lesser-known gems like "A Maid peerless" and "Lully lullay." The cantata begins with a prologue and concludes with an epilogue, creating a cohesive and engaging musical journey.

"A Ceremony Of Carols" is another highlight of the album, featuring a procession of carols that evoke the spirit of the season. Tracks like "Wolcome Yole," "Balulalow," and "Deo gracias" are interspersed with interludes and recessions, adding a sense of ritual and ceremony to the listening experience.

The album also includes two additional tracks, "The Holy Boy" and "The Bells of St Chad's," which further enrich the festive atmosphere. With a total duration of just over an hour and seven minutes, "Three Christmas Cantatas" is a comprehensive and delightful exploration of Christmas choral music.

Sir David Willcocks, a legendary figure in the world of choral music, brings his unparalleled expertise and passion to this album. His conducting is marked by a deep understanding of the music and a ability to draw out the best performances from the choir. The result is an album that is both a tribute to the past and a testament to the enduring power of choral music.

Whether you are a seasoned choral music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Three Christmas Cantatas" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album is a perfect accompaniment to the holiday season, bringing warmth, joy, and a sense of tradition to your celebrations.

November 4, 2022

(P) 2022 Heritage Records

About Sir David Willcocks

Sir David Willcocks was a beloved and influential figure in British choral music, renowned for his exceptional talent as a conductor, organist, and composer. Born in Cornwall in 1919, Willcocks' career spanned over six decades, during which he made an indelible mark on the musical landscape. He is perhaps best known for his tenure as the director of the Choir of King's College, Cambridge, from 1957 to 1974, where he transformed a group of young choristers into one of the world's most celebrated choirs. His annual performances of the Nine Lessons and Carols became a cherished tradition, and his arrangements and descants for these services are still widely performed and beloved today. Willcocks' contributions to choral music extend far beyond King's College; he also served as the director of the Royal College of Music in London and the musical director of the Bach Choir for 38 years. His extraordinary memory and musical prowess allowed him to conduct complex works from memory, a testament to his deep understanding and passion for music. Willcocks' legacy as a choral conductor, composer, and educator continues to inspire and influence musicians and music lovers alike.