Rave Reviews for new WinchesterTavener CD

Angels, Winchester Cathedral Choir’s latest CD reinforces the strong bond between the choir and Composer Sir John Tavener and the uplifting performances have received 5 star reviews.

Conducted by Andrew Lumsden with George Castle at the organ, Choir and Organ reviewer, Philip Reed writes: “Sir John Tavener’s popularity continues, judging by the number of recordings of his music, especially choral music, that cross my desk.

Under a previous Winchester Cathedral master of music – Martin Neary, who provides the exemplary liner notes to this CD – this choir gave many first performances of Tavener’s music and a special bond was forged. On the evidence of this disc, it is a bond that continues to this day, fostered by the current incumbent, Andrew Lumsden.

The choirs includes girls as well as boys and the honours, with the men, are fairly evenly distributed. The girls are exceptional in the deceptively straightforward Angels. The choral and recorded sound are excellent throughout, with Winchester Cathedral adding just the right amount of resonance.

Special mention should also be made of organist George Castle’s contribution. There may have been many Tavener choral CDs in recent years, but this one is very special.”

Writing for this month’s Gramophone Magazine, Ivan Moody comments: “I am finishing this review precisely on what would have been John Tavener’s 75th birthday ….. This is a showroom demonstration of just what boy and girl choristers singing together can achieve. A truly magnificent birthday present.”

For more details including Martin Neary’s CD notes and how to purchase please follow the link below.

https://www.hyperion-records.co.uk/dc.asp?dc=D_CDA68255