Grace Williams' 1998 album, "Williams: The Dancers, Two Choruses, Ave Maris Stella & 6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems," is a captivating exploration of choral music that spans a variety of themes and moods. Released under the Chandos label, this worship-inspired collection showcases Williams' mastery of composition and her ability to evoke deep spiritual and emotional resonance.
The album begins with "The Dancers," a five-movement suite that is both lively and introspective, featuring pieces like "Tarantella" and "Roundelay." Following this, the "Two Choruses" offer a contrast with their maritime themes, including the haunting "Harp Song of the Dane Women" and the rousing "Mariners' Song."
A standout track is "Ave Maris Stella," a beautiful and serene piece that highlights the ethereal qualities of the choir. The album concludes with six settings of poems by Gerard Manley Hopkins, each one a testament to Williams' ability to translate complex poetry into moving musical expressions. Tracks like "Pied Beauty" and "The Windhover" are particularly noteworthy for their vivid imagery and emotional depth.
With a total runtime of 58 minutes, this album is a rich and rewarding listen, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of choral music and the profound impact of sacred and poetic texts. Conducted by Richard Hickox, the performances are impeccable, bringing Grace Williams' compositions to life with clarity and passion. Whether you're a longtime fan of choral music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a compelling and uplifting experience.
1998 Chandos Records1998 Chandos Records
Tracks
The Dancers: I. Gather for FestivalGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: II. TarantellaGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: III. RoundelayGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: IV. Lose the Pain in the SnowGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: V. To the Wild Hills!Grace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
Two Choruses: I. Harp Song of the Dane WomenGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Richard Hickox Singers, Frank Lloyd, Cristopher Larkin, Caryl Thomas
Two Choruses: II. Mariners' SongGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Richard Hickox Singers, Frank Lloyd, Cristopher Larkin, Caryl Thomas
Ave Maris StellaGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Richard Hickox Singers
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: I. Pied BeautyGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: II. PeaceGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: III. Spring and FallGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: IV. No worst, there is none…Grace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: V. Hurrahing the HarvestGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: VI. The WindhoverGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
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