Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Benjamin Britten's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, released on Hyperion in 2012. This collection showcases two of Britten's most celebrated works: "A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28" and "Saint Nicolas, Op. 42". The album spans a rich 73 minutes, offering a profound exploration of Britten's neoclassical and choral compositions.
"A Ceremony of Carols" is a luminous cycle of carols for voices and harp, composed in 1942. This work is a cornerstone of Britten's repertoire, blending medieval texts with his distinctive musical language. The carols, ranging from processional hymns to intimate lullabies, evoke the spirit of Christmas with a timeless elegance.
"Saint Nicolas, Op. 42" is a dramatic cantata that tells the story of the life of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children. Composed in 1948, this work is a vibrant blend of opera and choral music, featuring a large cast of characters and a rich orchestral accompaniment. The cantata is a testament to Britten's ability to create compelling narratives through music, combining lyrical beauty with dramatic intensity.
This album is a treasure trove for fans of classical and choral music, offering a comprehensive look at Britten's genius. Whether you're a seasoned Britten enthusiast or a newcomer to his work, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire.
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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