IT Cambridge

Choir of King's College, Cambridge L'un des plus anciens et célèbre choeurs d'université au monde, le Choeur du King's College de Cambridge est fondé en 1441 sur ordre du roi Henri VI. L'ensemble choral composé de seize jeunes garçons et quatorze adultes officie au sein de la chapelle de l'université de Cambridge, où sont réalisés la plupart des enregistrements, sous la direction d'un chef de choeur et d'un organiste attitrés.

Choir of King's College, Cambridge L'un des plus anciens et célèbre choeurs d'université au monde, le Choeur du King's College de Cambridge est fondé en 1441 sur ordre du roi Henri VI. L'ensemble choral composé de seize jeunes garçons et quatorze adultes officie au sein de la chapelle de l'université de Cambridge, où sont réalisés la plupart des enregistrements, sous la direction d'un chef de choeur et d'un organiste attitrés.

It may seem a little perverse to open this review by bypassing the headline event (Britten's A Ceremony of Carols) in favour of its surrounding programme of early twentieth century carols and short choral works, but the latter are so very enjoyable that I'm almost of the opinion that they're where this programme's true gold lies.

Among England's famed university choirs, the King's College Choir of Cambridge has both one of the deepest histories and some of the most visible present-day activities. Its annual broadcasts of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, begun in 1918, have been an integral part of Christmas celebrations in many countries. The Choir of King's College was founded in 1441 by England's King Henry VI as the resident ensemble of King's College Chapel, a status it continues to hold today. The choir shrank during some of the tumultuous events of the 15th through the 17th centuries but continued to operate.

Among England's famed university choirs, the King's College Choir of Cambridge has both one of the deepest histories and some of the most visible present-day activities. Its annual broadcasts of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, begun in 1918, have been an integral part of Christmas celebrations in many countries. The Choir of King's College was founded in 1441 by England's King Henry VI as the resident ensemble of King's College Chapel, a status it continues to hold today. The choir shrank during some of the tumultuous events of the 15th through the 17th centuries but continued to operate.

In memory of the faithful departed. Graham Ross directs the Choir of Clare College, Cambridge in a programme of English and Spanish music for the Feasts of All Saints and All Souls, culminating in Tomás Luis de Victoria's last published work, his six-part 1605 Requiem, regarded by many as one of the finest works of the Spanish Renaissance.

The familiar hymn Veni Emmanuel is emblematic of the Advent season: a period of reflection upon the meaning of Christ's coming. Framing this programme, the hymn paraphrases the great "O" Antiphons (plainchant settings traditionally sung on the days leading up to Christmas), complemented here by later works echoing their rich imagery and symbolism.

The Living Fire is a celebration of choral music written for or associated with Jesus College, Cambridge. Featuring several premiere recordings of contemporary choral works by emerging composers, this album highlights the artistry within the College whilst honouring it's rich musical legacy. At the same time, it looks forward: the impetus behind this project was to provide a platform for emerging artists from within the College community to showcase their work. This project holds particular significance for several Choir members since, among the lyricists and composers, are former ensemble members. Their deep connection to the group has allowed for the creation of choral works uniquely suited to individual voices and our corporate strengths, making these world premieres all the more fitting. Many of the other contemporary works on this album are staples of Choral Evensong, beloved by the Choir and heard in Chapel services for many years. This album is a celebration of the bright future of music at Jesus College, the Choir's integral role in this special community, and it's broader contribution to the development and enjoyment of choral music globally.