Treasures of Christ Church

   in Choir & Organ (Jan, 2012)
Stretching from Taverner to Tavener, the music on this disc has close connections with Christ Church itself. In many ways it’s a pleasing collection of glorious early polyphony that leads to the present day, with world premiere recordings of Rutter’s Canticle of the heavenly city, with its singular accompaniment for two flutes and harp, and Goodall’s Veni, Sancte Spiritus, not far removed from Arvo Pärt. En route we meet Handel, Warlock, Howells and Grier. Present-day Tavener is a challenge for young voices, as his bass line requires more resonance. Although there are some excellent voices here, with immaculate phrasing and clear diction, more edge to the repertoire would have added variety. …