Search - John Rutter, Stephen Cleobury, City of London Sinfonia :: John Rutter: Requiem

An Excellent Introduction

Mark Swinton | 12/07/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is a near-perfect introduction to the music of John Rutter, a composer who has forged a place in the hearts of many listeners. Although he has written for most media (including solo instruments and orchestra), it is his choral music that commands the most attention- primarily as there is so much of it! And on this disc, the King's College Choir explores some highlights of the last ten years or so, including a number of works written for them. The Requiem is itself a fine work. I have sung it on two occasions so I know the demands it places on performers; most of these are overcome so well that it sounds like an easy work. There are a few places where the orchestra drowns out the choir (slightly smaller perhaps than Rutter intended) but in general the work is an absolute joy to listen to from beginning to end- every emotion is felt, indeed every note seems to be just right. In the other works, there is even clearer evidence of Rutter's diversity and personal style: most speak for themselves although I was rather surprised by "Hymn to the Creator of Light", the opening of which bears echoes of John Tavener. The final two tracks stand out above all the rest in that they feature the Wallace Collection, surely the most beautiful brass band I have ever heard, in two memorable showcases- "Cantus", a single word setting that makes glad the heart and may well draw tears from sensitive listeners; and "Te Deum", in which the scintillating combination of organ, brass and drums will sweep you away in a wave of pomp and majesty. If you want to discover Rutter, this is the disc for you; if you or your friends and loved ones already know and like Rutter, this disc will make a fine addition to any collection or gift list."

Glorious

Scott Taylor | 06/06/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a fine recording of John Rutter's masterpiece. The Choir of King's is exceptional. The recording features the full orchestral accompaniment with amazing soloists, specifically flute, cello and oboe. I am particularly found of performances by all-male choirs of this composer's music - Pie Jesu is breathtaking as a boy soprano solo. I believe this to be the best recording yet on disc of the Requiem. The programme is rounded out by other secular choral works. The Wallace Collection brass ensemble is a great guest on the disc as well. Highly Recommended."

SIMPLY EXQUISITE

Scott Taylor | 07/27/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"We had heard of neither Rutter nor Cleobury until a chance airing of "Te Deum" on the local classical station's sacred music concert had us scrambling madly for pen and paper and thence directly to the music store.This CD contains a stellar cross-section of Rutter's work. He combines the melodic simplicity of Bach with a distinctly modern sensibility. The combined effect of the music's sheer beauty, the exquisite skill of the Choir of King's College, Cambridge, and the magisterial hush of the King's College Chapel make for an ethereal and thoroughly transformative musical experience.It's truly *lovely.* Words simply cannot convey the listening experience, let alone do it justice. This recording will blow you away, if not change your life.--VMS/PTS"