Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

As many Cross Rhythms readers will know, Sir John Tavener was one of the most distinctive and distinguished composers of the 20th century. This new release featuring Suzy Digby's Voce Chamber Choir is a suitable tribute to Tavener, featuring a selection of works by him (many of which are previously unrecorded) and by Roxanna Panufnik (born 1968). At the heart of the disc is the premiere recording of Panufnik's "99 Words To My Darling Children", a moving setting of Tavener's last message to his children Theodora, Sofia and Orlando. As is only right, the text takes precedence and is narrated by Simon Russell Beale before the choir's entry. While most of the music in the collection is new there are new versions of two Tavener favourites in "Svyati" and "Threnos", both played by Matthew Barley on cello and with the choir joining him on "Svyati". Barley also gives us a rather lovely "Improvisation On Tavener Themes" that will appeal to all who enjoy the sound of the cello as well as those who appreciate Sir John's instrumental compositions. As well as setting "99 Words" to music Roxanna Panufnik also contributes a new setting of John Dryden's popular "Heav'nly Harmony" featuring the choir with James Sherlock on organ and a special commission to commemorate the 175th anniversary of 'The Tablet', the British Roman Catholic weekly paper. This uses a phrase from the Old Testament book of Proverbs: "write them on the tablet of your heart" and again features the choir and organ with a soprano solo from Charlotte Langley and deserves to be better known. Listeners who appreciate the work of Sir John Tavener will be grateful to hear the old favourites in new recordings and will very likely enjoy the work of Roxanna Panufnik as well. The material by both composers is accessible and the CD is a good introduction to both.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.