Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of English choral tradition with Kenneth Leighton's "The World's Desire & Other Choral Works." This captivating album, released in 2008 on the Hyperion label, showcases the masterful compositions of Kenneth Leighton, a name synonymous with the heart of English Cathedral repertoire. The album features the stunning performances of the Wells Cathedral Choir and the Wells Cathedral School Chapel Choir, conducted by the talented Matthew Owens.
Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this collection includes a mix of well-known and rarely heard works, with several tracks receiving their first-ever recordings. The album opens with the majestic "Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75," a work that exemplifies Leighton's ability to create deeply consoling and uplifting music. Other highlights include the intricate "Morning Canticles" and the evocative "The World's Desire," a sequence for Epiphany that brings the album to a spine-tingling close.
Kenneth Leighton's compositions are known for their intricate harmonies and profound spiritual depth, making this album a treasure trove for lovers of choral music. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Leighton's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a comprehensive and enriching exploration of his contributions to the choral canon. The impeccable performances by the choirs, coupled with the timeless beauty of Leighton's music, make this a standout release in the world of choral recordings.
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: I. IntroitKenneth Leighton, David Bednall, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: II. GradualKenneth Leighton, Matthew Owens, David Bednall, Stephen Foulkes, Wells Cathedral Choir
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: III. OffertoryKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens, Jacob Coton, David Bednall
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: IV. CommunionKenneth Leighton, David Bednall, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir, Stephen Foulkes
Sequence for All Saints, Op. 75: V. FinaleKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral School Chapel Choir, Wells Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens, David Bednall
Chorale Prelude on RockinghamKenneth Leighton, David Bednall
O God, Enfold Me in the SunKenneth Leighton, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir, David Bednall
Morning Canticles: I. VeniteKenneth Leighton, David Bednall, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir
Morning Canticles: II. Te Deum laudamusKenneth Leighton, David Bednall, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir
Morning Canticles: III. Jubilate DeoKenneth Leighton, Matthew Owens, David Bednall, Wells Cathedral Choir
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 1: I. Now When Jesus Was Born in BethlehemKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens, Christopher Sheldrake, David Bednall, Iain Milne
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 1: II. Bright Babe, Whose Awful Beauties MakeKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral School Chapel Choir, Wells Cathedral Choir, Matthew Owens, David Bednall
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 2: I. The Christ-Child Lay on Mary's LapKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral Choir, David Bednall, Léonie Maxwell, Matthew Owens
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 2: II. Behold, I Send My MessengerKenneth Leighton, Christopher Sheldrake, Iain Milne, Matthew Owens, Wells Cathedral Choir, David Bednall
The World's Desire "A Sequence for Epiphany", Op. 91, Pt. 2: III. Today the Grace of the SpiritKenneth Leighton, Wells Cathedral School Chapel Choir, Wells Cathedral Choir, Simon Clulow, Matthew Owens, Léonie Maxwell, Iain Milne, David Bednall, Christopher Sheldrake
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