Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gerald Finzi's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, released on May 16, 2006, under the esteemed Naxos label. Spanning a concise yet impactful 55 minutes, this collection showcases Finzi's extraordinary ability to blend poetic text with evocative music, creating an experience that resonates deeply with the soul.
The album is divided into two main works: "Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29" and "For St. Cecilia, Op. 30." The former is a setting of William Wordsworth's profound poem, exploring themes of mortality, nature, and the divine. Each of the twelve movements delves into different aspects of the poem, offering a rich tapestry of emotions and reflections. From the serene "Prelude" to the jubilant "Then Sing, Ye Birds, Sing a Joyous Song!", Finzi's music beautifully captures the essence of Wordsworth's words.
The latter part of the album, "For St. Cecilia," is a celebration of the patron saint of music. This five-movement work is a testament to Finzi's reverence for the art of music and its power to inspire and uplift. The pieces range from the contemplative "Delightful Goddess, in Whose Fashionings" to the triumphant "Wherefore We Bid You to the Full Concent," each offering a unique perspective on the divine inspiration behind music.
Gerald Finzi's compositions are known for their lyrical beauty and deep emotional resonance. This album is no exception, offering a profound and moving experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you are a longtime fan of Finzi's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is a treasure trove of choral excellence that deserves a place in your collection.
Tracks
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: PreludeGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: There Was a Time When Meadow, Grove and StreamGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: The Rainbow Comes and GoesGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: Now, While the Birds Thus Sing a Joyous SongGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: Ye Blessed Creatures, I Have Heard the CallGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: Oh Evil Day! If I Were SullenGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: But There's a Tree, of Many, OneGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: Our Birth Is But a Sleep and a ForgettingGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: Earth Fills Her Lap with Pleasures of Her OwnGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: Oh Joy! That in Our EmbersGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: But for Those First AffectionsGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: Then Sing, Ye Birds, Sing, Sing a Joyous Song!Gerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
Intimations of Immortality, Op. 29: And O, Ye Fountains, Meadows, Hills and GrovesGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
For St. Cecilia, Op. 30: Delightful Goddess, in Whose FashioningsGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
For St. Cecilia, Op. 30: Changed Is the Age; Mysterious, Man's Next StarGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
For St. Cecilia, Op. 30: How Came You, Lady of Fierce MartyrdomGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
For St. Cecilia, Op. 30: How Smilingly the Saint Among Her FriendsGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
For St. Cecilia, Op. 30: Wherefore We Bid You to the Full ConcentGerald Finzi, James Gilchrist, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, David Hill
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