“Fans of British Choral music should snap up this glorious disc (RLPO & Chorus) which features no fewer than 4 world premieres” (BBC MUSIC, 5 stars)
“Not to distract you from the excellence of the orchestral playing, but the accomplishments and inspiration displayed here represent English choral singing at its best. The smoothness, unanimity of enunciation, and ear-endearing luminosity of the singing resonates long after … not to be missed by fans of lyrical British choral music. Those who appreciate their Vaughan Williams and Delius will be richly rewarded.” (MusicWeb)
[1] Sir Edward Elgar (1857-1934) With Proud Thanksgiving 7:21
world premiere recording
[2] Frank Bridge (1879-1941) A Prayer 17:06
[3] Herbert Howells (1892-1983) Sine Nomine 14:43
world premiere recording
[4] Sir George Dyson (1883-1964) The Blacksmiths 14:19
world premiere recording of the orchestral version
[5] Havergal Brian (1876-1972) Psalm XXIII 15:34
[6] Henry Purcell (1659-1695) orchestrated by Elgar
Jehova, quam multi sunt hostes mei 7:21
world premiere recording
TIME 77:14, DDD, 2002
Elizabeth Donovan soprano (3) Kevin Matthews tenor (3,4,6)
William Prideaux baritone (6) Pauline Alston piano (4)
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Chorus (Chorusmaster: Ian Tracey)
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra (Leader: Malcolm Stewart)
Conductor: Douglas Bostock
Recorded in Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool, 13 & 14 July 2002