STYLE: Choral RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 7954- LABEL: Lammas LAMM154D FORMAT: CD Album
Reviewed by Steven Whitehead
John Stainer wrote his setting of the Passion in 1887, perhaps as a less demanding version of the story than those by Bach. And therein lies a problem: top choral societies can be a little snooty about Stainer’s 'Crucifixion' and so ignore it but it is still too challenging for many amateur groups. The version on offer here is a newly orchestrated arrangement by Barry Rose who, for this excellent recording, directs the Guildford Camerata and Guildford Philharmonic Orchestra in Guildford Cathedral. Stephen Farr plays the organ and the soloists are Peter Auty (tenor) and Roderick Williams (baritone). It is a very accomplished performance by all concerned. Highlights for this reviewer include the singing of both soloists and a beautiful “God So Loved The World” by the unaccompanied choir. This is a commendable recording, breathing new life into a much-loved work.
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Reply by Steven Whitehead in Buckinghamshire @ 20:59 on Aug 22 2011
'The Crucifixion' was written for choir and organ but here
Barry Rose has transcribed the organ music for a small
orchestra It is not overly orchestral which would, in my
opinion, detract from the simplicity of the piece.
Musically it works but I do not think it either improves nor
detracts from Stainer's original.
What is the orchestration of this work by Barry Rose ?
BPT
'The Crucifixion' was written for choir and organ but here Barry Rose has transcribed the organ music for a small orchestra It is not overly orchestral which would, in my opinion, detract from the simplicity of the piece. Musically it works but I do not think it either improves nor detracts from Stainer's original.
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