Customer Reviews

Howells: Choral Music

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This CD is, quite simply, one of the most beautiful aural experiences one could have in one's own home. I admit prejudice, because in the summer of 2004, I visited Wells Cathedral, and being an organist, was allowed to play in the cathedral for an hour and then attended Evensong. That afternoon in an English Cathedral was one of the highlights of my life. Even though I am a Spiritualist minister and medium, not a Christian, the memory of that late afternoon service, the music, the lessons and the light filtering through the stained glass windows made a lasting impression. We were definitely on holy ground.

Howells composed for specific places and buildings. To hear this sacred music in the large stone cathedral, sung by a wonderful English choir, with the soaring sounds of the trebles lifts the spirit, no matter what the religious background.

The director is Malcolm Archer, one of the great English directors and the organist is Rupert Gough, who was organist when I was there. The organ is a huge five-manual, with the name Willis on it, in a tower in front of the Quire, therefore the sound fills the entire church. My daughter, visiting me yesterday, remarked how much she enjoyed hearing the sound of this CD. She said, "I can hear the size and acoustics of the large stone building and I love it!"

Again, this is an experience of total Sacred Holiness. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves English choral music!