Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Benjamin Britten's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, released on November 1, 1966, under Decca Music Group Ltd. Spanning a diverse range of genres including classical, neoclassical, and choral, this collection showcases Britten's extraordinary compositional prowess and his deep connection with sacred and poetic themes.
The album opens with "A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28," a beloved set of carols that Britten composed during World War II. This work is a delightful blend of medieval and modern styles, featuring texts from the English medieval poem "I Sing of a Maiden" and other traditional sources. The carols are interspersed with instrumental interludes, creating a sense of ritual and reverence that is both intimate and profound.
Following this, the album presents "Rejoice in the Lamb, Op. 30," a choral work based on a poem by Christopher Smart. This piece is a celebration of joy and divine love, with Britten's music vividly capturing the ecstatic and playful spirit of Smart's text. The work is a testament to Britten's ability to convey complex emotions and ideas through his music.
The album concludes with "Missa Brevis, Op. 63," a concise yet powerful setting of the Latin Mass text. This work showcases Britten's mastery of choral writing, with its intricate harmonies and rhythmic vitality. The "Missa Brevis" is a fitting finale to this album, demonstrating Britten's enduring influence on the choral repertoire.
With a total duration of 50 minutes, this album offers a rich and varied listening experience, highlighting Benjamin Britten's unique voice and his enduring contribution to the world of classical music. Whether you are a longtime fan of Britten's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Tracks
Rejoice in the Lamb, Op. 30: 1. Rejoice in God, O ye TonguesBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Rejoice in the Lamb, Op. 30: 2. For I will consider my cat JeoffreyBenjamin Britten, Roger Parker, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Rejoice in the Lamb, Op. 30: 3. For the mouse is a creature of great personal valourBenjamin Britten, Michael Pearce, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Rejoice in the Lamb, Op. 30: 4. For the flowers are great blessingsBenjamin Britten, Robert Tear, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Rejoice in the Lamb, Op. 30: 5. For I am under the same accusationBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Rejoice in the Lamb, Op. 30: 6-8. For H is a spirit...For the instruments are by their rhimes...HallelujahBenjamin Britten, Forbes Robinson, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Missa brevis, Op. 63: 1. Kyrie eleisonBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Missa brevis, Op. 63: 2. Gloria in excelsis DeoBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Missa brevis, Op. 63: 3. Sanctus...BenedictusBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Missa brevis, Op. 63: 4. Agnus DeiBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Brian Runnett, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 1. ProcessionBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 2. Wolcom Yule!Benjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 3. There is no roseBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 4. That yongë childBenjamin Britten, Michael Turner, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 5. BalulalowBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 6. As dew in AprilleBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 7. This little BabeBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 8. InterludeBenjamin Britten, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 9. In freezing winter nightBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 10. Spring CarolBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 11. Deo GraciasBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: 12. RecessionBenjamin Britten, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Marisa Robles, George Guest
Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or have been spinning for years, the right turntable makes all the difference. We've selected the best options for every budget.
Whether a review is positive, negative, or neutral, we always publish it. However, we screen every review to ensure it is authentic and free of profanity. These checks happen automatically, though a human occasionally steps in. We never pay for reviews.
Looking for "Britten: A Ceremony Of Carols; Rejoice In The Lamb; Missa Brevis" on vinyl?
We don't have a live price right now, but stock fluctuates daily. You can check for hidden stock on Amazon directly, or let us alert you as soon as it is available.
