TAVERNER: Mass: 'The Western Wynde', O splendor gloriae,
Te Deum, Allelulia Veni electa mea.
The Sixteen Harry Christophers
Hyperion Helios CDH55056
56m DDD.
Crotchet
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This is one of Taverner's most glorious masses inspired by the forces of
air and showing the composer at his most inspired. Indeed the melodic charm
that graces this work is in constant evidence and the sheerly magnificent
writing for five part choir shows the deep faith of the composer especially
in the expansive Gloria that veritably teems with joy and passion. Christophers
and The Sixteen provide a virtuoso interpretation. By now this group's reputation
is firmly embedded and they find no problems with Taverner's complex and
at times pitfall-ridden writing. 'O splendor gloriae' is another deep
manifestation of faith whilst the shorter 'Allelulia' is another example
of the repeated phrase with plushly rising harmonics - a fine alternative
to the usual triadic choral writing. However the masterpiece on disc must
be the elusive 'Te deum', a thirteen minute spell of magnificent harmonic
shifts culminating in an arch of choral glory. Hyperion have included John
Heighway's authoritative notes and together with cleanly re-mastered recordings
and a superb cover. This 'Western Wynde' disc deserves the highest possible
recommendation.
Reviewer
Gerald Fenech
Performance:
Sound:
