Philip Wilby's "An English Passion According to Saint Matthew" is a compelling and dynamic musical retelling of the Crucifixion story, as interpreted through the lens of Richard Cooper, Canon Emeritus. Composed in 2018 for Matthew Owens and the choir of Wells Cathedral, this work stands out for its succinct and rapidly moving narrative, capturing the essence of St. Matthew's account with remarkable depth and intensity.
The album, released on Resonus Classics in March 2022, spans a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, featuring 18 tracks that weave together a rich tapestry of musical expression. From the solemnity of "God's Grandeur" to the powerful "Apotheosis," each piece is crafted to evoke the profound emotions and historical significance of the Passion narrative. The inclusion of traditional elements like the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis, alongside original compositions, creates a unique blend of the familiar and the innovative.
Conducted by Matthew Owens and performed by the Belfast Cathedral Choir, with Jack Wilson on the organ, this recording brings together a talented ensemble that breathes life into Wilby's vision. The album is a testament to the collaborative spirit of its creators, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless story. Whether you're a fan of choral music, a lover of classical compositions, or simply someone seeking a deeply moving musical experience, "An English Passion According to Saint Matthew" is sure to captivate and inspire.
(C) 2022 Resonus Limited(P) 2022 Resonus Limited
Tracks
God's GrandeurPhilip Wilby, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Jack Wilson, Matthew Owens
The Knaresborough Service: I. MagnificatPhilip Wilby, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Jack Wilson, Matthew Owens
The Knaresborough Service: II. Nunc dimittisPhilip Wilby, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Jack Wilson, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew: I. CollectPhilip Wilby, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part One: II. Processional HymnPhilip Wilby, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Jack Wilson, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part One: III. The Upper Room - Hymn 2Philip Wilby, Mhairi Lawson, Helen Charlston, Thomas Elwin, Ben McAteer, Seán Boylan, Jack Wilson, David Leigh, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part One: IV. DenialPhilip Wilby, Helen Charlston, Thomas Elwin, Ben McAteer, David Leigh, Jack Wilson, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part One: V. Gethsemane and the ArrestPhilip Wilby, Mhairi Lawson, Thomas Elwin, Seán Boylan, Ben McAteer, David Leigh, Jack Wilson, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part One: VI. Before CaiaphasPhilip Wilby, Helen Charlston, Thomas Elwin, Ben McAteer, Seán Boylan, David Leigh, Jack Wilson, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part One: VII. Peter's DenialPhilip Wilby, Mhairi Lawson, Helen Charlston, Thomas Elwin, Ben McAteer, Seán Boylan, David Leigh, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part One: VIII. Before the GovernorPhilip Wilby, Ben McAteer, Seán Boylan, David Leigh, Jack Wilson, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part One: IX. Hymn 3Philip Wilby, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Jack Wilson, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part One: X. BarabbasPhilip Wilby, Ben McAteer, Seán Boylan, David Leigh, Jack Wilson, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part Two: XI. GolgothaPhilip Wilby, Mhairi Lawson, Helen Charlston, Thomas Elwin, Ben McAteer, Seán Boylan, David Leigh, Jack Wilson, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part Two: XII. Hymn 4Philip Wilby, Mhairi Lawson, Helen Charlston, Thomas Elwin, Ben McAteer, Seán Boylan, Jack Wilson, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part Two: XIII. ApotheosisPhilip Wilby, Helen Charlston, Ben McAteer, Seán Boylan, Jack Wilson, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part Two: XIV. Procession of Christ and His CrossPhilip Wilby, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Jack Wilson, Matthew Owens
An English Passion According to Saint Matthew, Part Two: XV. Recessional HymnPhilip Wilby, Belfast Cathedral Choir, Jack Wilson, Matthew Owens
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