"Preces & Responses" by Joanna Forbes L'Estrange, published by the RSCM скачать в хорошем качестве

"Preces & Responses" by Joanna Forbes L'Estrange, published by the RSCM

This fresh setting for SATB & organ of the "Preces and Responses" was commissioned by Dr. Homer A. Ferguson III, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Southern Pines, North Carolina, USA, who describes it as “Simply delicious musical portraiture of these ancient prayers.” The setting has already established itself in the repertoire of church choirs across the UK and the USA and was featured as part of the RSCM's Celebration Day Service on 24th October 2020. Sung here by the choir of Trinity Cathedral, South Carolina, USA, directed by Dr Jared Johnson. Some comments from members of the choir: "An example of simple and effective contemporary composing." "Delightful, especially the setting of The Lord's Prayer which is glorious!" "Very singable. They're part of our core repertoire now." Composer’s note In this fast-changing and often unsettling world, I imagine I’m not alone in finding great comfort in the words of the traditional Choral Evensong which have been spoken or sung in churches, chapels and cathedrals for centuries. As the mother of two choristers, I have had the joy of attending evensong at St John’s College, Cambridge, several times a week and of hearing many different composers’ settings of each part of the service. From the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis to the Preces and Responses, every moment of Choral Evensong offers us all that much-needed opportunity for stillness and reflection. I was delighted to receive a commission from the organist and choirmaster of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Southern Pines, North Carolina, Dr. Homer Ashton Ferguson III, for a set of Preces and Responses to mark his 10th anniversary. Compared with our rich heritage of settings by male composers, there are relatively few settings by female composers of this part of evensong, which has proved a challenge for those forward-thinking choral directors who have pledged to include at least one piece by a woman in each service. My setting is, I hope, not too challenging for the humble, parish church choir. I began my choral life as a member of such a choir and, although I went on to become a professional singer, I very much believe in writing the kind of music which can be sung by amateur singers and enjoyed by congregations. It is also the kind of setting which, for a professional collegiate or cathedral choir who might be learning music for up to six services a week, can be slotted in without too much preparation. http://www.joannaforbeslestrange.com/...