Praise pours in for ‘Bright Star’
We haven’t had the official launch yet, but already “Bright Star” has had a warm reception from choral directors, composers and arrangers who describe the selection of music as “refreshing” and “a fascinating collection of carols” offering new programming options for Christmas.
John Rutter’s verdict is that the CD is “..the perfect album to refresh your Christmas celebrations – Cadenza have truly captured a new Christmas spirit.”.
Many of the composers featured on the CD have made similar comments, adding more specifically about their own pieces:
“Cadenza has captured perfectly the flow of the music according to the meaning of the words” (Hermione Roff, Winner, Waverley Care competition)
“I don’t think my piece could possibly be done better.” (Stef Conner, Runner-up, Waverley Care competition)
“The CD is terrific and I am very pleased with your reading of my ‘Lute Book Lullaby'” (Rory Boyle, composer)
“You have made a really good job of my ‘Christmas Hymn’. I am very impressed with the quality of the singing throughout. It’s particularly enjoyable to hear so many pieces that are new to me.” (Ken Johnston, composer)
“From the ethereal Jan Sandstrom arrangement of ‘Es ist ein Ros’ to the exuberant festivity of Mack Wilberg’s arrangement of ‘Ding Dong Merrily on high’, this disc displays enthusiasm in a wide expressive range with a good mix of Christmas carols, many with a Scottish flavour. My ‘Scots Nativity’ was sustained and well-phrased, capturing the lullaby mood – a most enjoyable performance.” (Alan Bullard, composer)
Others said that they were proud and honoured to have their compositions included on the CD.
We have also received praise for our excellent soloists (all drawn from the choir) and for the blend of voices overall.
The Launch itself will take place on 16th November at 7pm, when our special guest will be the writer, broadcaster and former Bishop of Edinburgh, Richard Holloway. More information on our concerts page.
We are also delighted to confirm that we will be joined at the Launch by some of the composers, including our Patron, Ben Parry, who is travelling up from London specially to be with us on the night, when we will give the world première performance of his carol, ‘Bright Star’, written for Cadenza and from which the CD derives its title. The programme will also include the carols written by the other composers who are able to join us.
This will be a very special occasion, giving Cadenza the opportunity to showcase Scottish musical talent at its best, and the audience the opportunity to mingle with all of our guests.
Posted: Wednesday 31 October 2012 at 12:18 pm