Immerse yourself in the sacred and uplifting choral works of William Mathias with the album "William Mathias: Missa brevis & Other Choral Music." Released on May 1, 2009, under the Hyperion label, this collection showcases Mathias' mastery of choral composition, offering a diverse array of pieces that span various religious themes and moods. The album opens with the powerful "Let the People Praise Thee, O God, Op. 87," setting the tone for a journey through both familiar and lesser-known works by this esteemed Welsh composer.
The centerpiece of the album is the "Missa brevis, Op. 64," a concise yet profound setting of the Latin Mass, demonstrating Mathias' ability to convey deep spiritual meaning within a compact structure. Other highlights include the joyous "Festival Te Deum, Op. 28" and the serene "Ave verum corpus," both of which exemplify the composer's knack for blending traditional liturgical music with modern sensibilities.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes, the album provides a comprehensive overview of Mathias' choral output, featuring works that range from celebratory to contemplative. Whether you're a longtime admirer of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, showcasing the timeless beauty of William Mathias' compositions.