The Choir Boys

The Vienna Boys’ Choir, one of the world's oldest boys’ choirs, maintains its status as a living tradition after more than 500 years. Haydn and Schubert both started their musical careers there; Antonio Salieri was a member of the admissions jury. What is captivating about these recordings is both the clarity of textual and musical declamation and a very special, authentic charm deriving from the slight Viennese accent. Performances by the Vienna Boys’ Choir are not only a matter of perfect pronunciation and intonation, but also of a musical sensuality that is vital to interpretations of Haydn and Schubert, yet frequently overlooked.

Founded in 1982, the Czech Boys Choir Boni Pueri carries on the tradition of a choir that has been active in the metropolitan chapter of St Vitus in Prague since 1252. The present ensemble, which has 200 members ranging from 4 to 19 years old, has performed more than 4,000 international concerts. Boni Pueri also performs at important state events, and has appeared alongside numerous distinguished artists. It is often invited to perform as a guest artist at festivals around the world, and also works closely with the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra.

This release from the admired Westminster Cathedral Choir demonstrates the splendours of the liturgy in the at-once solemn and joyful period of Lent. Masterworks from the Renaissance—familiar from Westminster Cathedral Choir’s previous award-winning recordings—alternate with works by former organists of the Cathedral (all themselves masters of liturgical composition) and are linked by the plainchant which is at the spiritual heart of the music. Hearing the music like this in context—and recorded in the unique acoustic of the Cathedral—perfectly replicates the live experience for the listener.