Sir Richard Rodney Bennett, a versatile musician, composed for concerts and films, played jazz piano, and sang classic show tunes in cabaret.
Historical Context
The practice of basing sacred music on a secular tune and the four-part SATB texture in Taverner's 'Western Wind Mass' had more in common with Lutheran musical practices than English traditions of the time.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded live in concert on January 23, 2010, at Christ Church Episcopal in New Haven, CT.
Composition History
Sir Richard Rodney Bennett's 'The Glory and the Dream' was commissioned jointly by a number of choirs worldwide in 2000, initiated by English composer Christopher Brown.
Performer Biography
Simon Carrington, the conductor, co-founded the internationally acclaimed British vocal ensemble The King's Singers at Cambridge University and performed with them for twenty-five years.
Interpretation
The conductor, Simon Carrington, wanted to give the Yale Institute of Sacred Music's graduate voice program students the opportunity to tackle the early English Renaissance style, which demands vocal expertise, intonation, and ensemble skills.
Compositional Technique
Taverner's 'Western Wind Mass' is based on a popular secular tune, 'Westron wynde,' which is heard 35 times throughout the mass, migrating through all parts except the alto.
