Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of British and Irish folk music with Ernest John Moeran's "Folksong Arrangements." Released on November 6, 2015, under the Naxos label, this choral album is a testament to Moeran's deep appreciation and mastery of traditional folk melodies. Spanning a little over an hour, the album is divided into three main sections, each focusing on a different region: Norfolk, Suffolk, and County Kerry.
Moeran's arrangements are not mere reproductions but rather intricate interpretations that highlight the unique character of each song. The Norfolk and Suffolk sections feature six folksongs each, showcasing the rural life and landscapes of these English counties. From the lively "The Jolly Carter" to the poignant "Gaol Song," Moeran's choral arrangements bring these traditional tunes to life with a fresh perspective.
The final section of the album is dedicated to seven songs from County Kerry, Ireland. These arrangements capture the spirit of Irish folk music, with its distinctive rhythms and melodies. Tracks like "The Dawning of the Day" and "The Roving Dingle Boy" offer a glimpse into the storytelling tradition of Irish music, while "Kitty, I am in Love with You" adds a touch of romance to the collection.
Throughout the album, Moeran's expertise in choral composition is evident. His arrangements are both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, making "Folksong Arrangements" a captivating exploration of traditional music. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply appreciate the beauty of folk melodies, this album is sure to delight.
2015 Naxos2015 Naxos
Tracks
6 Norfolk Folksongs: No. 1. Down by the RiversideErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
6 Norfolk Folksongs: No. 2. The Bold RichardErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
6 Norfolk Folksongs: No. 3. Lonely WatersErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
6 Norfolk Folksongs: No. 4. The PressgangErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
6 Norfolk Folksongs: No. 5. The Shooting of his DearErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
6 Norfolk Folksongs: No. 6. The Oxford Sporting BladeErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
The North Sea GroundErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
High GermanyErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
The Sailor and Young NancyErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, Weybridge Male Voice Choir, John Talbot, Christine Best
The Little MilkmaidErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
The Jolly CarterErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, Weybridge Male Voice Choir, John Talbot, Christine Best
Parson and ClerkErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
Gaol song: Gaol SongErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, Weybridge Male Voice Choir, John Talbot, Christine Best
6 Suffolk Folksongs: No. 1. Nutting TimeErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
6 Suffolk Folksongs: No. 2. Blackberry FoldErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
6 Suffolk Folksongs: No. 3. Cupid's GardenErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
6 Suffolk Folksongs: No. 4. Father and DaughterErnest John Moeran, Adrian Thompson, John Talbot
6 Suffolk Folksongs: No. 5. The Isle of CloyErnest John Moeran, Adrian Thompson, John Talbot
6 Suffolk Folksongs: No. 6. A Seaman's LifeErnest John Moeran, Marcus Farnsworth, John Talbot
Songs from County Kerry: No. 1. The Dawning of the DayErnest John Moeran, Adrian Thompson, John Talbot
Songs from County Kerry: No. 2. My Love Passed Me ByErnest John Moeran, Adrian Thompson, John Talbot
Songs from County Kerry: No. 3. The Murder of Father HanrattyErnest John Moeran, Adrian Thompson, John Talbot
Songs from County Kerry: No. 4. The Roving Dingle BoyErnest John Moeran, Adrian Thompson, John Talbot
Songs from County Kerry: No. 5. The Lost LoverErnest John Moeran, Adrian Thompson, John Talbot
Songs from County Kerry: No. 6. The Tinker's DaughterErnest John Moeran, Adrian Thompson, John Talbot
Songs from County Kerry: No. 7. Kitty, I am in Love with YouErnest John Moeran, Adrian Thompson, John Talbot
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