Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Benjamin Britten's choral masterpieces with this captivating album, released on November 1, 1995, under the Hyperion label. Spanning a rich tapestry of genres including classical, choral, and neoclassical, this collection offers a profound exploration of Britten's musical genius, with a duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes.
The album opens with Britten's celebrated work, "A Boy Was Born, Op. 3," a choral suite that beautifully weaves together traditional carols and original compositions. Each variation, from the tender "Lullay, Jesu" to the triumphant "Finale. Noel!", showcases Britten's ability to blend sacred texts with evocative melodies. The suite is followed by "Christ's Nativity," a five-movement work that narrates the story of Christ's birth with a blend of reverence and joy. The album also includes other notable choral works such as "A Shepherd's Carol," "Jubilate Deo in C," and "Te Deum in C," each demonstrating Britten's mastery of choral writing and his unique ability to convey deep spiritual and emotional resonance.
This album is a testament to Britten's enduring legacy and his profound impact on the world of choral music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Britten's work, this collection offers a compelling journey through some of his most inspiring and uplifting compositions.
A Boy Was Born, Op. 3: Theme. A Boy Was BornBenjamin Britten, Stephen Layton, St. Paul's Cathedral Choir, The Holst Singers
A Boy Was Born, Op. 3: Var. 1. Lullay, JesuBenjamin Britten, Stephen Layton, St. Paul's Cathedral Choir, The Holst Singers
A Boy Was Born, Op. 3: Var. 2. HerodBenjamin Britten, Stephen Layton, St. Paul's Cathedral Choir, The Holst Singers
A Boy Was Born, Op. 3: Var. 3. Jesu as Thou art Our SaviourBenjamin Britten, St. Paul's Cathedral Choir, Stephen Layton, Connor Burrowes, The Holst Singers
A Boy Was Born, Op. 3: Var. 4. The Three KingsBenjamin Britten, Stephen Layton, St. Paul's Cathedral Choir, The Holst Singers
A Boy Was Born, Op. 3: Var. 5. In the Bleak Midwinter / Lully, LulleyBenjamin Britten, The Holst Singers, St. Paul's Cathedral Choir, Stephen Layton
A Boy Was Born, Op. 3: Var. 6. Finale. Noel!Benjamin Britten, St. Paul's Cathedral Choir, Stephen Layton, The Holst Singers
A Hymn to the VirginBenjamin Britten, Stephen Layton, The Holst Singers
Christ's Nativity: I. Christ's NativityBenjamin Britten, The Holst Singers, Stephen Layton
Christ's Nativity: II. Sweet Was the SongBenjamin Britten, Stephen Layton, Catherine Wyn-Rogers, The Holst Singers
Christ's Nativity: III. PreparationsBenjamin Britten, Stephen Layton, The Holst Singers
Christ's Nativity: IV. New Prince, New PompBenjamin Britten, The Holst Singers, Stephen Layton, Susan Gritton
Christ's Nativity: V. Carol of King CnutBenjamin Britten, The Holst Singers, Stephen Layton
A Shepherd's CarolBenjamin Britten, Andrew Davies, The Holst Singers, Stephen Layton
Jubilate Deo in CBenjamin Britten, The Holst Singers, Stephen Layton, David Goode
Te Deum in CBenjamin Britten, David Goode, The Holst Singers, Louisa Keily, Stephen Layton
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