This release by the
London Choral Sinfonia
is quite a bit more unusual than it might at first appear. Yes, the familiar
The Lark Ascending
of
Vaughan Williams
closes out the program, yet look more closely: it's a new version, arranged in 2019 by
Paul Drayton
for violin, singers, and orchestra. There is a wordless choir at the beginning, and then the voices introduce the poem that inspired
to create his immortal bird. It may not replace the original
Lark Ascending
, but the presence of the poem is intriguing. Two other works on the program are also new:
Lennox Berkeley
's Brittenesque
Variations of a Hymn by Orlando Gibbons
here receives its recorded premiere, and the version of
'
Five Mystical Songs for voices, strings, and piano
is also a premiere. This work, which ironically enough has real mystic exultation despite
' atheist status, exists in several versions, all of them, including this one, made by the composer. It's probably most familiar in the version for baritone and piano alone, but the wash of strings is subtle, and the choir is used sparingly and attractively. Baritone
Roderick Williams
is in excellent form here. The only work presented in its familiar form is
Peter Warlock
's neo-Renaissance
Capriol Suite
, and this is far from a common item. The light, peppy performance from the
Sinfonia
is noteworthy, and in general, the performances are at a very high level, benefiting from the
's dual function. This album is a gem that will be welcomed by lovers of 20th century English music. ~ James Manheim