Herbert Howells

In the vast choral repertoire of the twentieth century, the music of Herbert Howells stands apart: unmatched in its complexion of color and expressivity, and unfailing in its ability to move hearts. Gloriæ Dei Cantores pays tribute to Howells' gift of music to the church and the world, with this collection of choral works beloved on both sides of the Atlantic. This recording was made with generous support from the Herbert Howells Trust. www.howellstrust.org.uk

About the Author :
Gloriæ Dei Cantores (Singers to the Glory of God) holds a passionate dedication to illuminate truth and beauty through choral artistry, celebrating a rich tradition of sacred choral music from Gregorian chant through the twenty-first century. Currently under the direction of Richard K. Pugsley, Gloriæ Dei Cantores has received critical acclaim for its artistic elegance, performance authenticity, and compelling spirituality. Sharing its vision of inspiration and hope, the choir has toured extensively, touching the hearts of audiences in twenty-four countries in Europe, Asia, and N. America. Its discography of over fifty recordings is distributed internationally through Paraclete Recordings, a division of Paraclete Press, Inc., and NAXOS, Inc. The choir makes its home in Orleans, MA. www.gdcchoir.org

Review :
"...under Elizabeth Patterson's able direction, they produce a big, thrilling sound that sweeps the listener up in an exhilarating cascade of vocal glory, abetted here by the excellent organ playing of James Jordan and SACD recording technology. Texts are included, and special note should be taken of the unusually elaborate work on the booklet, which is exceptionally intricate and beautiful in its mixture of pictures and typefaces...Take Him, Earth for Cherishing receives a ravishing, heartfelt performance that can hold its own with any other in the catalog." --Fanfare "Howells often conceived his works with the acoustical properties and character of specific buildings in mind... Gloriae Dei Cantores recorded their program in the Church of the Transfiguration in Orleans, Massachusetts. It is a recent (2000) stone building in the 4th-century basilican style with a lively acoustic. The organ consists of pipework from 12 instruments by EM Skinner and is entirely appropriate to accompany the works of Howells." --American Record Guide "In other respects, the work's [Requiem] emotions are strongly communicated..." "Among the shorter pieces, A Sequence for Saint Michael is particularly successful..." "While the Gloriae Dei Cantores recording is far superior in terms of sound and depth, they also bring an unencumbered and tradition-free approach to the music giving it more passion than is often heard...if I prefer the Cantores by just a hair, it's only because of the unique and flavorful sound they bring to this usually-done-by-the-English music, and the spacious hi-res surround sound." -- Audiophile Audition