Search - George Dyson, David Willcocks, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra :: Choral Music By George Dyson

Rare and Beautiful

Kenneth Stephen | Elliot Lake, ON Canada | 09/13/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Anyone who loves choral sound and has not yet encountered the music of Sir George Dyson is in for a treat. This composer had a rare gift for setting words to memorable melody and glorious harmony, all underlaid by perfectly judged orchestration. You don't have to listen any further than the opening two minutes or so of "The Blacksmiths" to realize that Dyson is a unique master. The hammered chords for two pianos and percussion perfectly capture the images of the memorable text given to the choir. "In Honour of the City" builds up to an energetic conclusion, as full of life as the poem which so vividly captures the atmosphere of old London town. "Sweet Thames Run Softly" gives some of the finest and loveliest moments in the whole collection -- baritone Stephen Roberts leads the way with his beautiful tone and clear diction. The rest of the music in this album is on an equally high level of inspiration, a great introduction to a composer whose music is long past due to be rediscovered and freshly evaluated."