Edmund Rubbra's "Rubbra: Symphony No. 9 & The Morning Watch" is a captivating journey through the world of classical music, released on March 1, 1996, under the Chandos label. This album showcases Rubbra's exceptional compositional skills, blending orchestral grandeur with choral and narrative elements to create a profound and engaging listening experience.
The album opens with "The Morning Watch, Op. 55," a serene and introspective piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. The centerpiece of the album is Rubbra's Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, also known as "Sinfonia Sacra." This ambitious work is divided into ten distinct movements, each telling a part of a larger story. The symphony features a mix of orchestral passages, choral performances, and narrated sections, creating a rich tapestry of sound and meaning. The choral pieces, such as "Crux fidelis" and "Regina coeli," are particularly striking, showcasing the power and beauty of the human voice.
Throughout the album, Rubbra's mastery of form and structure is evident. His ability to weave together different musical elements into a cohesive whole is a testament to his skill as a composer. The "Conversation piece" movement offers a moment of levity and reflection, providing a contrast to the more dramatic and intense sections of the symphony.
With a total runtime of 56 minutes, this album is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of Rubbra's musical vision. Whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, "Rubbra: Symphony No. 9 & The Morning Watch" offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience. The album is a testament to Edmund Rubbra's enduring legacy as a composer and his ability to create music that resonates with listeners on a deep and meaningful level.
1996 Chandos Records1996 Chandos Records
Tracks
The Morning Watch, Op. 55Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, BBC National Chorus of Wales
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": I. PreludeEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, Stephen Roberts, BBC National Chorus of Wales
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": II. Crux fidelis (Chorus)Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, BBC National Chorus of Wales
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": III. Chorale. Almighty Lord we pray thee (Chorus)Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, BBC National Chorus of Wales
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": IV. Now in the place were he was crucified (Narrator)Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, Della Jones, BBC National Chorus of Wales
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": V. Peter went forth (Narrator)Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, Della Jones, Stephen Roberts, Lynne Dawson, BBC National Chorus of Wales
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": VI. Regina coeli (Chorus)Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, BBC National Chorus of Wales
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": VII. And behold, two of them went (Narrator)Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, Della Jones
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": VIII. Conversation pieceEdmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": IX. And Jesus led them (Narrator)Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, Della Jones, Stephen Roberts, BBC National Chorus of Wales
Symphony No. 9, Op. 140, "Sinfonia Sacra": X. Viri Galilaei (Narrator)Edmund Rubbra, Richard Hickox, BBC National Orchestra Of Wales, BBC National Chorus of Wales
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