Roxanna Panufnik: Beastly Tales

Roxanna Panufnik's "Beastly Tales," released in 2006 under Warner Classics, is a captivating choral album that brings to life the enchanting stories of Vikram Seth. With a runtime of just over an hour, this album is a delightful journey through three tales: "The Crocodile and the Monkey," "The Frog and the Nightingale," and "The Hare and the Tortoise." Each tale is meticulously crafted, featuring a rich tapestry of characters and narratives that are brought to life through the powerful performances of the City of London Sinfonia and other talented vocalists.

The album opens with "The Crocodile and the Monkey," a story set on the Ganga's greenest isle, where Kuroop the crocodile and a mischievous monkey engage in a series of clever and humorous encounters. The choral arrangements and narration create a vivid and engaging atmosphere, drawing the audience into the heart of the tale.

Next, "The Frog and the Nightingale" takes listeners to Bingle Bog, where a frog and a nightingale navigate the complexities of their musical talents and ambitions. The interplay between the frog's croaking and the nightingale's melodious songs is beautifully captured, showcasing Panufnik's ability to blend different vocal styles seamlessly.

The album concludes with "The Hare and the Tortoise," a classic tale of speed and perseverance. The dynamic performances and intricate choral arrangements bring the race between the hare and the tortoise to life, highlighting the moral lessons of the story.

Roxanna Panufnik's "Beastly Tales" is a testament to her skill as a composer, blending traditional and contemporary elements to create a unique and engaging listening experience. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply looking for a captivating story, this album is sure to delight and inspire.