Faire is the heaven / William Harris (5:25) -- Dance, clarion air / Michael Tippett (4:03) -- When David heard / Thomas Weelkes (3:37) -- The gallant weaver / James MacMillan (5:48) -- Since I believe in God the Father Almighty / Ivor Gurney (5:54) -- When David heard / Robert Ramsey (2:37) -- Hymn to Saint Cecilia / Benjamin Britten (10:58) -- There is a spirit / Edmund Rubbra (5:35) -- When David heard / Michael East (4:19) -- Take him, earth, for cherishing / Herbert Howells (8:18) -- Lay a garland / Robert Pearsall (3:14) -- Eternitie / Edmund Rubbra (2:48) -- When David heard / Thomas Tompkins (4:17) -- Bring us, O Lord God / William Harris (3:50).
Summary
Does music add substance to words, or is music inspired by them? The transcendent nature of music and the power of poetry to challenge and alter perceptions of reality, harnessed by English composers over many centuries, flow through a program that invites contemplation of life and death, love and loss, creation and eternity. In a journey covering six centuries of musical history, The Sixteen performs a cappella anthems with powerful texts.
