Bryn Terfel, the renowned Welsh bass-baritone, presents "Simple Gifts," a captivating collection of sacred and secular choral works that showcase his extraordinary vocal prowess and versatility. Released on January 1, 2005, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album spans a rich tapestry of genres, including opera, requiem, classical, and choral music, all seamlessly blended into a harmonious 73-minute experience.
The album features a diverse array of compositions, from well-loved classics like "Ave Maria" and "Amazing Grace" to lesser-known gems such as "God's Mercy" by Gwynn Williams and "I'll Walk Beside You" by Murray. Terfel's arrangements, along with those by Chris Hazell and Jonathan Tunick, breathe new life into these pieces, offering fresh perspectives while preserving their timeless appeal. Highlights include the hauntingly beautiful "Stabat Mater" by Pergolesi and the serene "Nearer My God To Thee" by Mason, both of which demonstrate Terfel's ability to convey deep emotion and spiritual depth.
"Simple Gifts" is a testament to Bryn Terfel's artistry, offering a profound and uplifting journey through some of the most cherished works in the choral repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to resonate with its powerful performances and exquisite arrangements.
Mozart: Ave verum corpus, K.618 - Adapted by Chris HazellWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Traditional: Deep River - Arranged by Chris HazellTraditional, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Rutter: The Lord Bless You and Keep YouJohn Rutter, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Murray: I'll Walk Beside You - Arranged by Chris HazellAlan Murray, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Pergolesi: Stabat Mater: 1. Stabat MaterGiovanni Battista Pergolesi, Bryn Terfel, Simon Keenlyside, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Still, Still, Still Weils Kindlein Schlafen WillTraditional, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Simple Gifts - Arranged by Chris HazellJoseph Brackett, Jr., Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
How Great Thou ArtTraditional, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Franck: Messe solennelle en la majeur, Op. 12 FWV 61: 5. Panis Angelicus - Arranged By Chris HazellCésar Franck, Aled Jones, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Brahe: Bless this house - Arranged by Chris HazellMay Brahe, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Jenkins: Ave verum CorpusKarl Jenkins, Bryn Terfel, Simon Keenlyside, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Myers: Cavatina - Arranged by Chris HazellStanley Myers, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, John C. Williams
The RoseAmanda McBroom, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Carrell: Amazing Grace - Arranged by Chris HazellJames P. Carrell, David S. Clayton, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Gwynn Williams: God's MercyWilliam Sydney Gwynn Williams, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Traditional: Morning Has BrokenTraditional, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Mason: Nearer My God To Thee - Arranged by Chris HazellLowell Mason, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Gounod, J.S. Bach: Ave MariaCharles Gounod, Johann Sebastian Bach, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
Send in the Clowns - Arranged by Jonathan TunickStephen Sondheim, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth
God will be with YouWilliam G. Tomer, Bryn Terfel, London Symphony Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth, London Voices, Terry Edwards
Myers: Cavatina - Arranged by Chris Hazell - iTunes / BonusStanley Myers, Bryn Terfel, John C. Williams, Gerald Newson