More favourite choral music selections by members of the choir. Music, in all its forms, has a calming influence. Especially at the challenging time of social isolation due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Following on from the favourite choral selections of Musical Director, Nia Wyn Jones, are even more favourite choral music selections.
Chosen by members of the Denbigh and District Male Voice Choir.
Above all, do not underestimate the vast musical knowledge of these singers. They know their onions!
‘Africa’ Favourite Choral Music
The first selection is by Steve Tootell, a relatively new member, who has become a creative and energising force within the choir.
Steve provides recruitment flyers and creative video footage of the choir. He also organises the weekly raffle during practice nights.
Steve says ‘Africa’ is my all time favourite choral music. ‘Africa,’ an original composition and recording by Toto, the American Rock Band in 1982.
In June 2019 my International School of the Sacred Heart Vocal Ensemble students performed this piece especially for me.
Their last concert before I retired as being Head of Creative and Performing Arts there for 35 years.
The International School of the Sacred Heart is a Kindergarten girls school in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan, founded in 1908.
The choral performance is a brilliant arrangement and performance by Angel City Chorale, a Los Angeles based choir.
Furthermore, the beginning is an inventive simulation of gentle falling rain leading to a thunderous downpour. Close your eyes, you will swear it’s raining!
Ave Verum Corpus
A favourite choral music choice for three members is Mozart’s wonderful Ave Verum Corpus.
Phil Taylor, past Chairman of the choir, and at one time a member of Cantorion Colin Jones, selects this celebrated composition.
Alun Jones also reminisces about singing this dignified selection with the Trelawnyd Male Voice Choir.
Another new member, Chris Wren, also remembers singing it as a choirboy.
In the video below, Leonard Bernstein conducts the Bavarian Radio Orchestra and Choir, shortly before his death.
The score contains the words sotto voce (meaning ‘subdued’) in Mozart’s hand on the score.
Moreover, Bernstein demands this musical interpretation in his own inimitable style.
An understated masterclass. It is such a moving tribute.
Emyr Thomas says
Da iawn – keep them coming!
Stay safe!!
Richard Thompson says
Thanks Emyr, pleased to say that you are featured in the next Blog.
Keep watching!!
Hwyl Fawr!