O Sacrum Convivium: French Sacred Choral Works

Choir Of St John's College, Cambridge,Andrew Nethsingha

O Sacrum Convivium: French Sacred Choral Works
Format
Audio
Published
24 February 2015
ISBN
0095115184226

O Sacrum Convivium: French Sacred Choral Works

Choir Of St John's College, Cambridge,Andrew Nethsingha

This new disc with the Choir of St John’s College, Cambridge under Andrew Nethsingha - recording exclusively for Chandos - pays homage to French sacred choral music of the early twentieth century. It features two Messes solennelles, by Louis Vierne and Jean Langlais, as well as short pieces by Francis Poulenc and Olivier Messiaen.

The two Messes solennelles in many ways emulate the Mass in F sharp minor, Op. 36 by Vierne’s organ teacher, Charles-Marie Widor. Yet, Vierne and Langlais - both blind from childhood, Paris Conservatoire students, and longstanding titular organists in main places of worship in Paris - use a more modern, forward-looking chromatic harmonic language and colourful organ writing. The versions heard here employ one organ, rather than the two commonly available in Parisian churches.

Although it is his only published contribution to liturgical choral music, the motet O sacrum convivium! by Messiaen features two of his most characteristic musical traits: the use of chromatic harmonies within the much-favoured tonality of F sharp major, and the rhythmic augmentation of note values to liberate the music from the regular succession of beats.

As well as the Four Lenten Motets by Poulenc we hear his late four short prayers ‘by St Francis of Assisi’, composed for a male choir and showing a remarkable variety of colour, the number of parts ranging from three to six.

Track listing:

Langlais: Messe Solennelle for mixed choir & organ

Messiaen: O sacrum convivium

Poulenc: Quatre motets pour un temps de pénitence

Quatre petites prières de Saint François d'Assise

Vierne, L: Messe solennelle in C sharp minor, Op. 16

 

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in approx 4 weeks

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.