BOB CHILCOTT (b.1958): Requiem for Choir and Ensemble (The Nash Ensemble), Salisbury Motets, Downing Service, Pilgrim Jesus, The Nine Gifts, Jesus, Springing.

Description: With a background in the Anglican choral tradition and a distinguished career in the Kings' Singers, Chilcott not surprisingly writes eloquent, effective tonal choral music that combines the liturgical solemnity of the cathedral choir with the direct emotional appeal of the English choral tradition. His contemplative Requiem avoids 'day of wrath' histrionics entirely; his acknowledged models are Fauré and Duruflé. Unobtrusively supported by orchestra and organ, and with ample opportunity for solo voices to shine, this reflective requiem is somber but never morose, moving and comforting. The motets and carols display Chilcott's gift for simple but memorable melody, and the radiant Magnificat and Nunc dimittis achieve a genuinely uplifting expression of faith. Texts included. Jonathan Vaughn (organ), Wells Cathedral Choir; Matthew Owens.