Howells: Requiem – Vaughan Williams: Mass in G Minor

Immerse yourself in the profound and sacred compositions of the Corydon Singers with their 1984 album, "Howells: Requiem – Vaughan Williams: Mass in G Minor." This exquisite collection of choral works brings together the moving Requiem by Herbert Howells and the serene Mass in G Minor by Ralph Vaughan Williams, creating a spiritual and musical journey that spans a full hour.

The album opens with the Mass in G Minor, a piece that showcases Vaughan Williams' unique ability to blend traditional hymnody with modern harmonies. The Corydon Singers, under the direction of Matthew Best, deliver a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. The Mass is followed by the Te Deum in G Major, another stunning example of Vaughan Williams' choral writing.

The second half of the album is devoted to Howells' Requiem, a work that is both intimate and profound. The Corydon Singers bring a sense of intimacy and immediacy to this piece, making it feel as if the listener is part of a small, private service. The album concludes with "Take Him, Earth, for Cherishing," a poignant and reflective piece that leaves a lasting impression.

Throughout the album, the Corydon Singers demonstrate their exceptional skill and versatility, moving seamlessly from the grand, sweeping gestures of the Mass to the intimate, personal expressions of the Requiem. The sound is rich and full, with each voice distinct and clear. The album is a testament to the power of choral music to evoke deep emotions and inspire reflection.