The recording features a double descant for 'O Little Town of Bethlehem' by Richard Marlow, inspired by polyphony, combined with a serene third verse setting by Phillip Ledger.
Composition History
This album includes two world premieres by Toby Young, the ensemble's composer in residence: 'The Astronomer's Carol' and a piece based on the O Antiphons.
Cultural Impact
Armonico Consort's AC Academy has created almost 300 choirs and choir leaders across the UK, reaching over 250,000 young people, and is expanding internationally to Kenya and Mexico.
Critical Reception
Jonathan Dove's 'The Star Song', a bristling and bright carol, had surprisingly not been featured on any other Christmas recording at the time of this album's release.
Performer Biography
Armonico Consort, founded by Christopher Monks and university colleagues in 2001, began with a shared passion for Renaissance to Baroque music and imaginative concert presentations.
Interpretation
The album's repertoire reflects the eclectic approach of the annual 'Carols By Candlelight' performances, including both classics and uniquely arranged pieces.
Compositional Technique
Toby Young's O Antiphons piece features four sopranos singing the melody from the four corners of the building in a loose canon, while the main choir hums simple chords below.
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