"Vaughan Williams: Folk Songs of the Four Seasons" is a captivating cantata composed by the renowned English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams in 1949. This substantial work, spanning over 40 minutes, is a beautiful blend of traditional folk songs arranged for women's voices and orchestra. Commissioned by the Women's Institute, the cantata reflects Vaughan Williams' deep appreciation for amateur music-making and his commitment to preserving English folk music.
The album, released on Albion Records in 2009, features 19 tracks that weave through the seasons, each song telling a story and evoking the spirit of rural England. From the lively "The Lark in the Morning" to the haunting "The Unquiet Grave," the cantata offers a rich tapestry of musical emotions and narratives. The world première recordings, conducted by the esteemed Sir David Willcocks, bring a masterful interpretation to this timeless work.
Vaughan Williams, born in 1872 and passing away in 1958, was a pivotal figure in English music, known for his innovative use of folk melodies and his contributions to various genres, including film scores and orchestral works. "Folk Songs of the Four Seasons" stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and his ability to capture the essence of English folk music in a classical setting. This album is a delightful exploration of Vaughan Williams' musical genius and a celebration of the rich heritage of English folk songs.
Tracks
Prologue. To the PloughboyRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
Early in the SpringRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
The Lark in the MorningRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
May SongRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
Summer Is A-Coming In - The CuckooRalph Vaughan Williams, Elisabeth Fleming, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
The Sprig of ThymeRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
The Sheep ShearingRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Sir David Willcocks
The Green MeadowRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
John BarleycornRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
The Unquiet GraveRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Sir David Willcocks
An Acre of LandRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
Children's Christmas SongRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
Wassail SongRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
In Bethlehem CityRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Sir David Willcocks
God Bless the MasterRalph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
The Conspiracy "Sigh No More, Ladies"Ralph Vaughan Williams, Catharine Rogers, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
Falstaff and the Fairies "Round About in a Fair Ring-a"Ralph Vaughan Williams, Catharine Rogers, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
Wedding Chorus "See the Chariot at Hand"Ralph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
Epilogue "Whether Men Do Laugh or Weep"Ralph Vaughan Williams, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, English Voices, Dmitri Ensemble, Sir David Willcocks
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 "Vaughan Williams: Folk Songs of the Four Seasons" 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.
