This Baby was Abandoned

For some reason, this baby cover was abandoned by Chandos.

Perhaps it offended the citizens of the world? I thought it a tad incendiary at the time, but for no good reason of my own.

It may be the agnostic musical viewpoint from the composer, stirred up some vitriol over the quasi-religious Mass of Life title, paired with a most-definitely religiously-titled Requiem.

Regardless, these two works amble across their lengthy runtimes (100 minutes and 30 minutes respectively), requiring fortitude from the listener. I do think getting to know these works pay dividends, but I would also understand if listeners never came back.

Chandos' is a good recording. I personally prefer that of Sir Charles Groves and their pairings over on EMI, but if someone wanted this 90's recording, it is still quite a find. It is certainly one of the few places to find Delius' Requiem

A Mass of Life has received a few recent recordings: that of David Hill on Naxos and Sir Mark Elder on LAWO with Roderick Williams, the latter I believe is sung in German. Quite a handful of recordings for a work that still puzzles listeners today.

Listen on YouTube

Works
Requiem (30.52)
A Mass of Life (98.27)

Soloists
Rebecca Evans, soprano
Joan Rodgers, soprano
Jean Rigby, mezzo
Nigel Robson, tenor
Peter Coleman Wright, baritone

Ensembles
Waynflete Singers
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra & Chorus

Conductor: Richard Hickox

Label: Chandos
Year: 1997
Total Timing: 2.09.19

 

What a situation to have four quality recordings of an obscure composer's obscure work.

This one is still recommendable, even if my personal preferences lie elsewhere.

 If you don't like the baby, Chandos has changed it to leaves and butterflies...

 

 

Find more Delius recordings HERE!