Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Benjamin Britten's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, featuring two of his most celebrated works: "A Ceremony of Carols" and "Saint Nicolas." Recorded by the renowned Choir of Trinity College Cambridge under the baton of Stephen Layton, this album is a testament to Britten's enduring genius and the choir's exceptional artistry.
"A Ceremony of Carols" is a timeless Christmas classic, composed in 1942 while Britten was traveling to the United States. The work is scored for harp and unaccompanied voices, creating a unique and intimate sound that has captivated audiences for decades. The album begins with the processional "Procession," setting the stage for a journey through the medieval poems and carols that Britten so beautifully sets to music. From the joyous "Wolcom Yole!" to the tender "Balulalow," each track is a gem in its own right, showcasing the choir's versatility and Britten's compositional brilliance.
The second half of the album is dedicated to "Saint Nicolas," a cantata for tenor soloist, chorus, and orchestra. This dramatic work tells the story of the life of Saint Nicholas, from his birth to his miraculous deeds and eventual death. The Choir of Trinity College Cambridge brings the narrative to life with stunning clarity and expression, making this a standout performance of Britten's choral repertoire.
The album was recorded in two sessions, the first taking place in September 2007 and the second in January 2012, ensuring the highest audio quality. The release was nominated for a Gramophone Award in 2013, further cementing its place as a standout recording in the classical genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Britten's music or a newcomer to his choral works, this album is sure to delight and inspire. With a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, it's the perfect way to experience the magic of Britten's choral compositions.
Tracks
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: I. ProcessionBenjamin Britten, Stephen Layton, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: II. Wolcom Yole!Benjamin Britten, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Stephen Layton, Sally Pryce
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: III. There Is No RoseBenjamin Britten, Sally Pryce, Stephen Layton, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: IV. That Yongë ChildBenjamin Britten, Zoë Brown, Sally Pryce, Stephen Layton
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: V. BalulalowBenjamin Britten, Sally Pryce, Stephen Layton, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Katherine Watson
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: VI. As Dew in AprilleBenjamin Britten, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Stephen Layton, Sally Pryce
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: VII. This Little BabeBenjamin Britten, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Stephen Layton, Sally Pryce
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: VIII. InterludeBenjamin Britten, Sally Pryce
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: IX. In Freezing Winter NightBenjamin Britten, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Katherine Watson, Zoë Brown, Stephen Layton, Sally Pryce
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: X. Spring CarolBenjamin Britten, Katherine Watson, Zoë Brown, Stephen Layton, Sally Pryce
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: XI. Deo graciasBenjamin Britten, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Stephen Layton, Sally Pryce
A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28: XII. RecessionBenjamin Britten, Stephen Layton, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge
Saint Nicolas, Op. 42: I. IntroductionBenjamin Britten, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Allan Clayton, Stephen Layton, The Holst Singers, City of London Sinfonia
Saint Nicolas, Op. 42: II. The Birth of NicolasBenjamin Britten, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Allan Clayton, City of London Sinfonia, Temple Church Choristers, Luke McWatters, Stephen Layton, The Holst Singers
Saint Nicolas, Op. 42: III. Nicolas Devotes Himself to GodBenjamin Britten, Allan Clayton, Stephen Layton, City of London Sinfonia
Saint Nicolas, Op. 42: IV. He Journeys to PalestineBenjamin Britten, City of London Sinfonia, Allan Clayton, Stephen Layton, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, The Holst Singers, Jeremy Cole
Saint Nicolas, Op. 42: V. Nicolas Comes to Myra and Is Chosen BishopBenjamin Britten, Allan Clayton, Stephen Layton, The Holst Singers, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, City of London Sinfonia, Jeremy Cole
Saint Nicolas, Op. 42: VI. Nicolas from PrisonBenjamin Britten, Allan Clayton, Stephen Layton, City of London Sinfonia
Saint Nicolas, Op. 42: VII. Nicolas and the Pickled BoysBenjamin Britten, Allan Clayton, City of London Sinfonia, Temple Church Choristers, Stephen Layton, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, The Holst Singers, Jeremy Cole
Saint Nicolas, Op. 42: VIII. His Piety and Marvellous WorksBenjamin Britten, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Stephen Layton, The Holst Singers, City of London Sinfonia
Saint Nicolas, Op. 42: IX. The Death of NicolasBenjamin Britten, The Choir Of Trinity College, Cambridge, Allan Clayton, Stephen Layton, The Holst Singers, City of London Sinfonia
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