Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of storytelling through music with John Rutter's "3 Musical Fables." Released on October 1, 2003, under the Collegium label, this captivating album spans a variety of genres, primarily choral and Christmas music, and offers a delightful listening experience that lasts just under an hour and nine minutes.
John Rutter, a renowned composer known for his choral works, brings to life three timeless tales through his exquisite compositions. The album begins with "The Wind in the Willows," a charming suite that captures the essence of Kenneth Grahame's beloved novel. Each track paints a vivid picture, from the introduction of Rat and Mole's friendship to the thrilling recapture of Toad Hall.
Next, Rutter takes you on a journey through the medieval world with "Brother Heinrich's Christmas." This suite tells the story of Brother Heinrich and his quest to create a new carol, culminating in a beautiful Christmas morning celebration. The choral arrangements are particularly stunning, evoking the spirit of the season.
The album concludes with "The Reluctant Dragon," a whimsical tale of a dragon and a boy who form an unlikely friendship. The music is playful and engaging, bringing the story to life in a way that is both entertaining and memorable.
Throughout the album, Rutter's mastery of choral composition shines, making "3 Musical Fables" a standout addition to any music collection. Whether you're a fan of choral music, Christmas carols, or simply enjoy a good story, this album is sure to delight.
2003 Collegium2003 Collegium
Tracks
The Wind in the Willows: No. 1, IntroductionJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 2, Rat and Mole Meet (A Life on the River)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 3, Scene at Badger's HouseJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, Colin Mason, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 4, Toad's CarJohn Rutter, Richard Baker
The Wind in the Willows: No. 5, Court SceneJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Simon Carrington, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 6, Toad in Gaol (Let Me Tickle Your Fancy)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Jeremy Jackman, Bill Ives, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 7, Toad's Song (I've Got Style)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Bill Ives, The King's Singers, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 8, The Recapture of Toad Hall (Let's Wallop a Weasel)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, Colin Mason, Bill Ives, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 9, The Banquet at Toad HallJohn Rutter, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, Colin Mason, Bill Ives, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Wind in the Willows: No. 10, Finale. Home Is a Special Kind of FeelingJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Alastair Hume, Colin Mason, Bill Ives, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 1, IntroductionJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 2, Sigismund Sings in the Abbey ChoirJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, The Cambridge Singers, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 3, Sigismund Is DismissedJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 4, Brother Heinrich and the New CarolJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 5, The Angels Appear on Christmas EveJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, The Cambridge Singers, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 6, Brother Heinrich Writes Down the Angels' CarolJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, City of London Sinfonia
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 7, Christmas MorningJohn Rutter, Brian Kay
Brother Heinrich's Christmas: No. 8, The Angels' Carol and Christmas DinnerJohn Rutter, Brian Kay, The Cambridge Singers, City of London Sinfonia
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 1, IntroductionJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 2, The Boy Visits the Dragon's CaveJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Jeremy Jackman, Bill Ives, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 3, The Villagers and St. George ArriveJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 4, I Say, Old BoyJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, Jeremy Jackman, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 5, Planning the Tournament (First He Waves His Spear Around)John Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, Jeremy Jackman, The King's Singers, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 6, The TournamentJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, Jeremy Jackman, Simon Carrington, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 7, Banquet FugueJohn Rutter, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox
The Reluctant Dragon: No. 8, Finale. Let's Begin AgainJohn Rutter, Richard Baker, Anthony Holt, Bill Ives, Jeremy Jackman, The King's Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Richard Hickox