Coleridge-Taylor: Choral Works

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor's choral works with this captivating album, released on June 16, 2023, under Orchid Classics. Spanning a comprehensive 90 minutes, this collection showcases the composer's mastery of the choral genre, offering a diverse range of pieces that highlight his unique voice and profound musical expression.

The album opens with the grand Morning & Evening Service in F Major, Op. 18, a five-movement work that exemplifies Coleridge-Taylor's ability to blend sacred text with stirring musical compositions. From the triumphant "Te Deum" to the serene "Nunc dimittis," each section of this service is a testament to the composer's skill in evoking deep spiritual and emotional resonance.

Beyond the service, the album delves into a variety of choral works that showcase Coleridge-Taylor's versatility. "By the Waters of Babylon" and "Sea Drift, Op. 69" draw from poetic and literary sources, offering lush, evocative settings that transport the listener to vivid landscapes. Meanwhile, pieces like "The Evening Star" and "Summer Is Gone" capture the essence of nature and the changing seasons, demonstrating the composer's keen sensitivity to the world around him.

The album also features three short pieces for organ, providing a contrast to the choral works and showcasing Coleridge-Taylor's ability to compose for different instrumental forces. These pieces, along with the choral works, offer a comprehensive overview of the composer's output and his enduring legacy in the classical music world.

Whether you're a longtime admirer of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor or a newcomer to his music, this album is a treasure trove of beautiful, moving compositions that are sure to leave a lasting impression.