Recordings
“Budding singers, composers, conductors and producers everywhere take note: this is how it’s done.” Classic FM Magazine
Haydn The Seasons 1801
Carolyn Sampson (soprano), Jeremy Ovenden (tenor), Andrew Foster-Williams (bass-baritone)
National Forum of Music Choir
Wrocław Baroque Orchestra
Gabrieli Consort & Players
Paul McCreesh (conductor)
2017 Gramophone Classical Music Awards Best Choral Recording, shortlist
2018 International Classical Music Awards Best Choral Recording, nominee
Featuring the combined British and Polish forces of the Gabrieli Consort & Players, Wrocław Baroque Orchestra and National Forum of Music Choir conducted by Paul McCreesh, this recording continues the acclaimed series of collaborations between Gabrieli and the National Forum of Music which also includes Berlioz Grande Messe des Morts, Mendelssohn Elijah and Britten War Requiem.
The first recording of The Seasons to recreate the spectacular large-scale forces Haydn used in Vienna in the early 19th century, this release features electrifying performances from a huge string ensemble, triple winds and 10 horns (for the famous hunting chorus). The composer’s great swansong is sung in English in a lively and much-acclaimed new translation by Paul McCreesh.
“At the very start of the overture to 'Spring' the listener's attention is grabbed by the series of great drum-strokes, and thus having hooked you McCreesh's gifted players never let you go... ”MusicWeb International - Recording of the Month
Winged Lion / Signum Classics
SIGCD480
March 2017