Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

This latest recording from the Choir of York Minster under the direction of Robert Sharpe captures this splendid mixed choir in the special acoustic of one of our greatest cathedrals, courtesy of engineer-producer Gary Cole. The music reflects a continually developing tradition and offers us a selection of the Anglican repertoire from the last 100 years, written specifically for York Minster and its Choir: settings of texts for Matins and Evensong; anthems suitable for those services and for the Eucharist; and compositions for special celebrations and circumstances. We hear from three successive Masters of the Music whose combined service spans nearly a century, namely Edward Cuthbert Bairstow (1874-1946), Francis Jackson (born 1917) and Philip Moore (born 1943). In addition we hear work from Judith Bingham (born 1952) and Francis Grier (born 1955) who both contribute specially commissioned settings of traditional texts: Bingham giving us a "Magnificat" and "Nunc Dimittis" for her "York Service" and Grier a new "Ave Maris Stella". Other composers contributing to a most enjoyable collection are Richard Lloyd (born 1933), Richard Shephard (born 1949) and James Cave (born 1979). While the album's subtitle 'Music For The Choir Of York Minster' is accurate, said music certainly deserves to be heard by a much wider audience and its mix of traditional and contemporary choral music, all sung very well and accompanied where necessary by Benjamin Morris on the organ, is warmly recommended.

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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