Rosa mystica: Musical Portraits of the Blessed Virgin Mary
6/19/2020, 14 Tracks, 1:02:46
Featuring
Paul Spicer
Callum Alger
Isabella Abbot Parker
Imogen Russell
Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir
John Tavener
Nicholas Ludford
Anton Bruckner
Martin Dalby
Ola Gjeilo
George Dyson
Benjamin Britten
Herbert Howells
Carl Rütti
Healey Willan
Judith Bingham
Pierre Villette
Trond Kverno
Cecilia McDowall
Did you know?
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Performer Biography
Paul Spicer, the conductor, is a widely respected choral conductor in the UK, known for his work with the Finzi Singers and as a guest conductor for the BBC Singers.
Recording & Production
This album features several first recordings, including Carl Rütti's Ave Maria, Judith Bingham's Ave virgo sanctissima, and Cecilia McDowall's Of a Rose.
Interpretation
The album aims to demonstrate the wide range of styles composers have used to venerate the Virgin Mary, from the 16th to the 21st centuries, across various nationalities.
Historical Context
The worship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the subject of this album, is as old as Christianity itself, with the Council of Ephesus in 431 sanctioning her cult as Mother of God.
Album & Artwork
The album title, "Rosa Mystica," is taken from Benjamin Britten's piece of the same name, which is featured on this recording.
Performer Biography
Callum Alger, the organist on this recording, is currently the Organ Scholar at Westminster Cathedral and regularly accompanies and directs its renowned choir.
