Leo Sowerby: American Master of Sacred Song

"Magnificent choral singing."--American Record Guide "Intensity of the singers' commitment is evident in every piece."--Choral Journal Leo Sowerby: American Master of Sacred Song celebrates "the Dean of American Church Music" and his contributions to the choral and organ repertory. In the 1920's, Sowerby's music was regularly performed by orchestras (especially the Chicago Symphony) and it is heartening to see so much interest in his works in the 21st century. Gloriae Dei Cantores has selected ten anthems to represent Sowerby as an inspired composer for worship as well as several sacred vocal solos and four of his finest works for organ. The CD set is crowned with a rare performance of Sowerby's Festival Musick for brass and organ. Sowerby's rich harmonies and exciting vocal writing capture the listener in such texts as Great is the Lord, O God, the Protector of All, Come, Holy Ghost and Turn Thou to Thy God. His organ music shows a rare ear for color and texture and his style, attractive and accessible, is timeless. As with many of Gloriae Dei Cantores' recordings, this one contains much music not available elsewhere.

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. The choir makes its home in Orleans, MA. www.gdcchoir.org

Review :
"...the choir...sings well throughout the collection. They are well balanced and blended. They display a good dynamic range, which is well controlled and they sing with commitment." "All these instrumental offerings are well played. David Chalmers, who has the lion's share, plays with sensitivity and skill and varies his registrations intelligently. James E. Jordan is similarly effective in his contribution." "This is a worthy centenary tribute in which all concerned give of their best in Sowerby's cause." --Musicweb-international "Concerning the performances on these discs, it is clear that the Gloriae Dei Cantores choir has been expertly trained by director Elizabeth Patterson. All the anthems are well sung; the intensity of the singers' commitment is evident in every piece. The organ works, too, are extremely well played by David Chalmers..." --Choral Journal "Gloriae Dei Cantores has a warm, rich, blended sound with impeccable diction. This is exactly the right sound for the wide range of emotions in these anthems ...the choir demonstrates not only a wide palette of colors but also a sincere belief in the texts...it is magnificent choral singing." --American Record Guide "The choral work under the direction of Elizabeth Patterson is consistent and well executed...Organist David Chalmers handles the accompaniments to all the pieces very well, complementing the choral ensemble as well as showing off the wonderful subtle changes of color possible on the organ at Mechanics Hall...Chalmers also does a fine job interpreting the organ works...Also of high quality is the Festival Musick, directed by [Richard] Pugsley with James e. Jordan at the organ." --Cross Accent