Julian Anderson: Choral Music

Julian Anderson's "Choral Music" is a captivating collection of contemporary classical pieces, released on Delphian Records in July 2018. This album showcases the remarkable collaboration between Julian Anderson and the Choir of Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge, under the direction of Geoffrey Webber. Spanning a total of 14 tracks and just over an hour in duration, the album presents a diverse range of compositions that highlight Anderson's distinctive style and the choir's exceptional vocal prowess.

The album opens with "My Beloved Spake," a piece that immediately draws the audience in with its rich harmonies and intricate textures. It continues with the "Bell Mass," a six-movement choral work that demonstrates Anderson's mastery of choral writing, blending traditional liturgical elements with contemporary musical language. The "Four American Choruses on Gospel Hymn Texts" offer a refreshing contrast, featuring lively rhythms and accessible melodies that bring a sense of joy and spiritual uplift.

Notable pieces such as "I Saw Eternity" and "Nunc Dimittis" showcase Anderson's ability to create deeply moving and introspective music, while the organ piece "Il secondo libro di toccate: Toccata quarta per l’organo da sonarsi alla levatione" adds a solo instrumental dimension to the album. Each track is performed with precision and passion, reflecting the many months of rehearsal and dedication invested by the choir and conductor.

"Julian Anderson: Choral Music" is a testament to the power of contemporary choral music, offering a rich and varied listening experience that appeals to both classical enthusiasts and those new to the genre. The album's engaging directness and outstanding performances make it a standout release in the contemporary classical music scene.