Immerse yourself in the profound and moving choral works of Ralph Vaughan Williams with the album "Vaughan Williams: Mass in G Minor." Released on May 18, 2018, by Signum Records, this collection showcases the composer's mastery of classical music, particularly in the realm of liturgical and sacred compositions. The album features a stunning performance of the Mass in G Minor, completed by Vaughan Williams in 1921 and dedicated to his close friend Gustav Holst and the Whitsuntide Singers in Thaxted, Essex.
The Mass in G Minor is a testament to Vaughan Williams' artistic evolution, written in the aftermath of his service as a wagon orderly during the Great War. This period of reflection and introspection is evident in the clean lines, rounded tones, and near-perfect balance of voices that characterize the performance. The album also includes other notable works such as "Te Deum in G Major," "O vos omnes," and "5 Mystical Songs," offering a comprehensive journey through Vaughan Williams' post-war compositions.
With a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, the album is a rich tapestry of sound, blending traditional liturgical elements with Vaughan Williams' unique compositional style. The Choir of St John's College, Cambridge, delivers a captivating performance, bringing to life the intricate harmonies and profound emotional depth of Vaughan Williams' music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a must-listen, offering a deep and rewarding exploration of one of the 20th century's most influential composers.
(C) 2018 Signum Records
Tracks
Mass in G Minor: KyrieRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, George Balfour, Peter Lidbetter, Michael Bell, Andrew Nethsingha
Mass in G Minor: Gloria in excelsisRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Daniel Brown, James Adams, Michael Bell, William Ashford, Andrew Nethsingha
Mass in G Minor: CredoRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Hugh Cutting, Peter Lidbetter, William Ashford, Michael Bell, Gopal Kambo, Andrew Nethsingha
Mass in G Minor: Sanctus – Osanna I – Benedictus – Osanna IIRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Matthew Brown, Hugh Cutting, Oliver Morris, James Beddoe, Andrew Nethsingha
Mass in G Minor: Agnus DeiRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, George Balfour, Jack Hawkins, Gopal Kambo, William Ashford, Alfred Harrison, Andrew Nethsingha
Te Deum in G MajorRalph Vaughan Williams, Joseph Wicks, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha
O vos omnesRalph Vaughan Williams, Hugh Cutting, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha
5 Mystical Songs: V. AntiphonRalph Vaughan Williams, Joseph Wicks, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha
3 Preludes on Welsh Hill Tunes: II. RhosymedreRalph Vaughan Williams, Joseph Wicks, Andrew Nethsingha
O Taste and SeeRalph Vaughan Williams, Alfred Harrison, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha
Prayer to the Father of HeavenRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha
O, Clap Your HandsRalph Vaughan Williams, Joseph Wicks, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha
Lord, Thou Hast Been our RefugeRalph Vaughan Williams, Joseph Wicks, Daniel Brown, Gopal Kambo, James Adams, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha