Grace Williams presents a captivating collection of choral works in her album "The Dancers, Two Choruses, Ave Maris Stella & 6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems." Released on March 1, 1998, under the Chandos label, this album spans a duration of 58 minutes and delves into the worship genre, showcasing Williams' mastery of choral composition.
The album opens with "The Dancers," a five-movement suite that explores a range of emotions and rhythms, from the festive "Gather for Festival" to the introspective "Lose the Pain in the Snow." Following this, Williams presents two choruses, "Harp Song of the Dane Women" and "Mariners' Song," each offering a unique blend of storytelling and musicality.
The centerpiece of the album is Williams' setting of six poems by Gerard Manley Hopkins. Each poem is brought to life with a distinct musical interpretation, highlighting the depth and complexity of Hopkins' verse. From the serene "Pied Beauty" to the powerful "No worst, there is none…," Williams' compositions serve as a testament to her ability to convey the essence of poetry through music.
Throughout the album, Grace Williams' compositions are characterized by their rich harmonies, intricate rhythms, and evocative melodies. Her work on this album demonstrates her deep understanding of choral writing and her ability to create music that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply appreciate well-crafted compositions, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
1998 Chandos Records1998 Chandos Records
Tracks
The Dancers: I. Gather for FestivalGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: II. TarantellaGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: III. RoundelayGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: IV. Lose the Pain in the SnowGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
The Dancers: V. To the Wild Hills!Grace Williams, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Eiddwen Harrhy, Caryl Thomas, Richard Hickox Singers
Two Choruses: I. Harp Song of the Dane WomenGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Richard Hickox Singers, Frank Lloyd, Cristopher Larkin, Caryl Thomas
Two Choruses: II. Mariners' SongGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Richard Hickox Singers, Frank Lloyd, Cristopher Larkin, Caryl Thomas
Ave Maris StellaGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Richard Hickox Singers
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: I. Pied BeautyGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: II. PeaceGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: III. Spring and FallGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: IV. No worst, there is none…Grace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: V. Hurrahing the HarvestGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
6 Gerard Manley Hopkins Poems: VI. The WindhoverGrace Williams, Richard Hickox, Helen Watts, Simon Standage, Shuna Wilson, John Heley, Rochard Williamson, Simon Whistler, Elizabeth Shenton
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