Thou Art My Refuge - Psalms of Salvation and Mercy

Author/Artist: Other Authors

Format: CD

Price: $16.95

Product ID: 9126

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The Psalms have been used for private and public worship for thousands of years. While they have been interpreted in numerous ways, they have been a source of hope and comfort for many. Gloriæ Dei Cantores presents the first of a three-volume series of the Psalms of David. Gloriæ Dei Cantores provides a wealth of experience in the communication of the rich texts of these psalms, having chanted the psalms for nearly three decades in worship services. Perfect for contemplative listening at any place or time, Thou Art My Refuge will be welcomed by all who love the Psalms for their beautiful poetry and spiritual depth.

There are 22 psalm settings covered here, by a wide range of composers writing in predominantly traditional styles--in other words, this volume doesn't contain any of the more recently composed or harmonically "adventurous" settings some listeners will be familiar with. What we do get is the essence of Anglican chant sound and style--and thanks to the superb efforts of this very sensitive, responsive choir, its knowing director, and a pair of first-rate organists, we experience something of the uniquely expressive power inherent in this manner of psalm-singing, which in its most accomplished form allows phrases to flow and important individual words their full presence and meaning.

' I was happy to hear several of my favorite settings--especially the Wesley for Psalms 42 and 43, the Goss for Psalm 11, and Aylward for Psalm 138--as well as many beautiful unfamiliar ones. I only wish that the choir and organ were recorded in a more favorable--that is, less noisy--acoustic. Perhaps a bit more distance, or a slight dampening or reconfiguring of the live, resonant space would help. At any rate, it's a treat to hear this music so well realized and enthusiastically sung (supported by some very nice organ work). I'm looking forward to volume 2!'
David Vernier
Classics Today