Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

This reviewer sits firmly on the fence in the boy treble versus girl soprano debate. That they sound different is an obvious statement but whether one is better than t'other is much more a matter of opinion. And, if you want my opinion, I'd rather hear a good soprano than a poor treble. What we get on this CD is a mixed choir in fine voice singing traditional Anglican choral music from three of the finest composers to have worked in the idiom: William Harris (1883 - 1973), Hubert Parry (1848 - 1918) and Charles Villiers Stanford (1852 - 1924). Stanford gets seven tracks and the others five apiece although Parry's opening title is the 10-minute "Blest Pair Of Sirens" so he gets his fair share of the generous total time of 72 minutes. Thomas Leech accompanies on the organ and the singing by girls and men alike is very good throughout. Special praise must be given to head chorister Rebecca Greenfield who gives an outstanding solo in Stanford's "Magnificat In G". Those who appreciate traditional choral singing will enjoy this CD as long as they are prepared to let the girls have their chance.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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