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Gloria

The sacred music of John Rutter

Beating Time

GLORIA
The sacred music of John Rutter
Cambridge Singers, et al
Dir. John Rutter
Collegium Records. 44 mins. £14.75

The music of John Rutter is something of a phenomenon, in that he has produced a vast amount of music (much of it intended for church use) in a distinctively modern idiom without losing touch with the long tradition of Anglican music which is clearly his inspiration.

For the purist, Rutter's musical language is perhaps a little too modern. However, in my view, he has written some wonderful music which successfully enlivens the texts he chooses, and much of which is reverent and worshipful.

This CD, which is by no means new, contains a collection of his best sacred music. The main item, which Rutter says in his introduction was actually written primarily for use as a concert piece, is a large-scale setting of the 'Gloria', a hymn in liturgical use in the church for centuries. This is an exciting and dramatic setting which makes full use of orchestral textures and, in particular, brass instruments, which never fail to stir the blood! This is followed by ten anthems which range in style from the declamatory 'O clap your hands' to the much more reflective 'Open Thou my eyes' and 'God be in my head'. It is in these pieces that one of Rutter's particular gifts, that of writing beautiful melodies, is shown to the best effect. 'All things bright and beautiful', for example, has almost become the best-known tune to these famous words. The recording finishes with the wonderfully serene 'The Lord bless you and keep you' - a fitting farewell.

The music on this CD is expertly performed, as one might expect from the ensembles involved. The singing is clear and accurate, with the soprano voices, so important in Rutter's work, especially notable. For the Christian listener, there is much to commend this collection. The texts, while certainly varied, are, without exception, helpful and appropriate; several are taken directly from Scripture. I recommend this recording most warmly.

Simon Brennan, Charterhouse