Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of English choral music with "My Beloved Spake - Anthems by Purcell and Humfrey" by the renowned Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge. Released in 2012 under the Chandos label, this album is a captivating exploration of the works of two prominent English Baroque composers, Henry Purcell and Pelham Humfrey.
The album features ten exquisite anthems, each showcasing the exceptional vocal prowess of the Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, conducted by Andrew Nethsingha. The performances are accompanied by the St. John's Sinfonia, adding a layer of depth and richness to the music.
From the hauntingly beautiful "Remember not, Lord, our offences" to the triumphant "Rejoice in the Lord alway," the album spans a range of moods and styles, highlighting the versatility and skill of both the composers and the performers. The standout track, "My beloved spake," is a brilliant depiction of verses from the Song of Solomon, showcasing the choir's ability to convey the text with clarity and emotion.
Recorded in the acoustically stunning St. John's College Chapel in Cambridge, the album captures the full resonance and power of the choir's voices. The recording venue itself adds a sense of history and tradition to the performances, making this album a true gem for lovers of choral music.
With a duration of just over an hour and nine minutes, "My Beloved Spake - Anthems by Purcell and Humfrey" is a testament to the enduring appeal of Baroque choral music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
2012 Chandos Records2012 Chandos Records
Tracks
Remember not, Lord, our offences, Z. 50Henry Purcell, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha
Jehova, quam multi sunt hostes mei, Z. 135Henry Purcell, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha, James Gilchrist, Neal Davies, John Challenger
O sing unto the Lord, Z. 44Henry Purcell, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha, St. John's Sinfonia, James Gilchrist, Neal Davies, Iestyn Davies, John Challenger, Peter Hicks
O Lord my GodPelham Humfrey, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha, St. John's Sinfonia, James Gilchrist, Neal Davies, Iestyn Davies, John Challenger
Magnificat and Nunc dimittis in E Minor: I. MagnificatPelham Humfrey, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha, Alec D'Oyly, Peter Hicks, James Imam, Tom Blackie, Julian Gregory, Huw Leslie
Magnificat and Nunc dimittis in E Minor: II. Nunc dimittisPelham Humfrey, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha, Alec D'Oyly, Peter Hicks, James Imam, Tom Blackie, Julian Gregory, Huw Leslie
Behold, now, praise the Lord, Z. 3Henry Purcell, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha, St. John's Sinfonia, James Gilchrist, Neal Davies, Iestyn Davies, John Challenger
My beloved spake, Z. 28Henry Purcell, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha, James Gilchrist, Neal Davies, Iestyn Davies, David Stout, John Challenger
Hear my prayer, O Lord, Z. 15: Hear my prayer, O lord, Z. 15Henry Purcell, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha
Rejoice in the Lord alway, Z. 49, "Bell Anthem"Henry Purcell, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, Cambridge, Andrew Nethsingha, St. John's Sinfonia, James Gilchrist, Neal Davies, Iestyn Davies, John Challenger
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