Cecilia McDowall, one of Britain's most acclaimed contemporary composers, presents a captivating collection of organ works in her 2021 album "Cecilia McDowall: Organ Works." Released on the prestigious Naxos label, this album showcases McDowall's exceptional ability to blend traditional choral elements with innovative compositions, resulting in a mesmerizing auditory experience.
The album features 17 tracks, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes. It includes a variety of pieces, such as the "O Antiphon Sequence," a series of seven antiphons that are traditionally sung during the Advent season, and the "George Herbert Trilogy," which draws inspiration from the poetry of the 17th-century English poet and priest George Herbert. The album also features solo organ pieces, including a revised version of "Sacred and Hallowed Fire" and an arrangement of the famous "Pavane" by Gabriel Fauré.
Performed by the talented organist William Fox, with additional contributions from trumpeter Lucy Humphris, the album is a testament to McDowall's skill in creating music that is both deeply rooted in tradition and refreshingly contemporary. The pieces range from celebratory and uplifting, like the opening track "Celebration," to introspective and meditative, such as the "3 Antiphons" series.
"Cecilia McDowall: Organ Works" is a remarkable addition to the choral and organ repertoire, offering listeners a chance to explore the rich and diverse musical landscape of one of Britain's most celebrated living composers. Whether you're a fan of choral music, a connoisseur of organ works, or simply someone looking to discover new and inspiring music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
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