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Immerse yourself in the profound and resonant choral works of Hubert Parry, expertly conducted by James O'Donnell, alongside compositions by Charles Villiers Stanford, Charles Gray, and Charles Wood. This album, released on May 29, 2020, under the Hyperion label, is a captivating exploration of sacred and contemplative music that spans a rich tapestry of styles and moods.
The album opens with Parry's evocative "3 Motets, Op. 38," featuring the serene "Justorum animae," the triumphant "Caelos ascendit hodie," and the reflective "Beati quorum via." These pieces showcase Parry's mastery of choral writing, blending medieval influences with a distinctly Romantic sensibility. The "Magnificat & Nunc dimittis in F Minor" follows, offering a somber yet uplifting contrast, while the "Magnificat for 8-Part Chorus, Op. 164" and "Nunc dimittis in B-Flat" further highlight Parry's ability to create deeply moving sacred music.
The centerpiece of the album is Parry's "Songs of Farewell," a cycle of six deeply introspective and poignant choral works. Each piece, from the serene "My Soul, There Is a Country" to the contemplative "Lord, Let Me Know Mine End," is a testament to Parry's emotional depth and musical ingenuity. These songs, composed towards the end of Parry's life, reflect a sense of resignation and acceptance, making them some of the most profound and moving choral works in the repertoire.
Complementing Parry's works are compositions by Stanford, Gray, and Wood, each contributing to the album's rich and varied choral landscape. Stanford's "Magnificat & Nunc dimittis" and Gray's "Nunc dimittis" add layers of complexity and beauty, while Wood's contributions bring a sense of warmth and intimacy.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a testament to the enduring power of choral music. James O'Donnell's nuanced conducting brings out the full emotional and musical depth of these works, making this a collection that will resonate with fans of choral, medieval, and sacred music alike.