Cappella Nova "Alpha & Omega" SACD

Cappella Nova "Alpha & Omega" SACD

Regular price $19.99 Sale

After its 'undeniably beautiful' (The Financial Times) Linn debut and its ‘excellently performed' (Fanfare) follow up, Cappella Nova releases a third volume of choral works by the leading contemporary composer, James MacMillan.

Choral & Song Choice: '...a mixture of anguish and ecstasy, the sub-divided writing is nailed with pinpoint accuracy...a marvellous set of performances.' 
5 stars Performance / 5 stars Recording
BBC Music Magazine

4 stars 'They bring control and precision to the ecstatic, incantatory nature of MacMillan's work...' The Guardian

Album of the Week: 'His Missa Dunelmi is beautifully and atmospherically recorded here... MacMillan is a champion virtuoso of church space.' Sinfini

Of the eight works performed here, six receive their premiere recording (only Missa Dunelmi and Invocation have been previously recorded).  Cappella Nova has enjoyed a twenty five year association with MacMillan; many premiere performances later the choir has established an intuitive response to his work and a passion for his creativity which is evident on Alpha & Omega.

This recording is made particularly special because Missa Dunelmi is conducted here by the composer; founding director Alan Tavener lends his enthusiasm and expertise for the remaining works. James MacMillan provides illuminating and fascinating insights into his work in a conversation with Rebecca Tavener included in the booklet note.

They are joined on Alpha & Omega by violinist Madeleine Mitchell described by The Times as ‘one of Britain's liveliest musical forces and foremost violinists'. Cappella Nova's previous recordings, 'Tenebrae' and ‘Who are these Angels?' were both named in Gramophone as ‘Editor's Choice' albums; the latter also received several five star reviews.

Tracklisting

  1. Missa Dunelmi - I. Kyrie
  2. Missa Dunelmi - II. Gloria
  3. Missa Dunelmi - III. Sanctus & Benedictus
  4. Missa Dunelmi - IV. Agnus Dei
  5. St Patrick's Magnificat
  6. ...fiat mihi...
  7. Cum vidisset Jesus
  8. I am your Mother
  9. Invocation
  10. Domine non secundum peccata nostra
  11. Alpha & Omega