Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of choral music with John Rutter's "This Is the Day: Music on Royal Occasions." Released on April 24, 2012, under the Collegium label, this album is a captivating collection of 22 tracks that span a little over an hour and fourteen minutes. Rutter, a renowned composer and conductor, brings together The Cambridge Singers and the Aurora Orchestra to deliver a performance that is both majestic and intimate.
The album opens with Rutter's own composition, "This Is the Day," setting a celebratory tone that is fitting for royal occasions. It then seamlessly transitions into classical masterpieces, including Mozart's "Vesperae solennes de confessore, K. 339: V. Laudate Dominum" and Brahms' "Ein deutsches Requiem, Op. 45: IV. How lovely is thy dwelling place." These pieces showcase the versatility and skill of the performers, as well as Rutter's thoughtful curation.
Rutter's own compositions, such as "We Wait for Thy Loving Kindness" and "Set Me as a Seal upon Thine Heart," are interspersed throughout the album, providing a sense of continuity and personal touch. The album also features works by other notable composers, including Britten's "The Apostles, Op. 49: Prologue (The Spirit of the Lord Is upon Me)" and Handel's "Samson, HWV 57: Let the Bright Seraphim in Burning Row - Let Their Celestial Concerts All Unite."
The album's title track, "This Is the Day," is a jubilant anthem that captures the essence of celebration and joy. The Cambridge Singers' voices soar, backed by the rich, resonant sounds of the Aurora Orchestra. This piece, along with others like "Gloriana, Op. 53: Choral Dance No. 1, Time" and "Gloriana, Op. 53: Choral Dance No. 6, Final Dance of Homage," highlights Rutter's ability to compose music that is both accessible and deeply moving.
"Song for Athene" and "Ubi caritas" are standout tracks that demonstrate Rutter's gift for blending traditional and contemporary elements. These pieces, along with others like "Psalm 23, Op. 132, D. 706" and "4 Motets on Gregorian Themes, Op. 10: Ubi caritas," showcase the album's diverse range of styles and influences.
Throughout the album, Rutter's compositions and arrangements are imbued with a sense of reverence and celebration, making it a fitting tribute to royal occasions. The performances by The Cambridge Singers and the Aurora Orchestra are nothing short of outstanding, capturing the essence of each piece with precision and passion.
Whether you are a longtime fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, "This Is the Day: Music on Royal Occasions" is an album that will captivate and inspire. John Rutter's masterful compositions and arrangements, combined with the exceptional performances by The Cambridge Singers and the Aurora Orchestra, make this album a true gem in the world of choral music.
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