Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

In 2014 the town of Warwick celebrated its 1100th anniversary with a year-long programme of events. To mark this significant point in the history of the town, the choirs of the great church of St Mary in Warwick, known for its beautiful architecture and long tradition of musical excellence, recorded this disc of music for dedication: 'Gaudeamus Omnes', meaning 'Let Us All Rejoice'. In addition to works written for the dedication of a city, church and organ, the disc includes new works especially written for St Mary's Church, its Director of Music, Thomas Corns, and its choirs of girls, boys and men. Philip Moore's "Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis in A" is for upper voices and was written for the St Mary's Girls' Choir. David Briggs' extended work, the title track, based on the plainchant of the same name, was written for the full complement of singers and features a virtuoso organ accompaniment, played here by St Mary's Assistant Director of Music, Mark Swinton. Some of the other compositions, while appropriate for the occasion, may be considered a little obvious. William Walton's "Jubilate Deo", for example, has been recorded on more than a few occasions, as has Hubert Parry's "I Was Glad When They Said Unto Me" but it is only right to say that the choirs do them full justice. I do not know what quirk of ecclesiastic history or politics led to Coventry being the bishopric for Warwickshire but on this recording the choirs of St Mary's reach cathedral choir heights that are matched by both organists, Thomas Corns and Mark Swinton. On first inspection I was a little disappointed that the programme did not reflect the full millennium of Warwick's history but having heard how well the material sits together I withdraw the charge and congratulate all concerned on reaching such a significant milestone and celebrating it so creditably.

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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