Divine Art Records

Period: Contemporary

  • Frederick Paul Naftel: Orchestral, chamber and instrumental works

    Frederick Paul Naftel: Orchestral, chamber and instrumental works

    Frederick Paul Naftel’s new album showcases his eclectic compositional style through a diverse collection of works. 

    3 Premiere Recordings:

    Aphoristic Impressions, composed in 2023 for American pianist Haley Myles, captures the essence of various landscapes through five short piano pieces. These pieces evoke images of the underwater church at Dunwich, Suffolk, the eruption of an Icelandic geyser, the indigenous wildlife of the Australian outback and Uluru/Ayers Rock, a peaceful night-time portrait of a Japanese garden, and Whirlpool Rapids Gorge on the Niagara River.

    Naftel’s String Quartet No.2, composed during the initial Coronavirus pandemic, reflects the era’s tumultuous nature. Unlike his first quartet, this single-movement piece is divided into five sections with an epilogue. The music oscillates between tranquil static passages and furious, violent sections, marked by intervals of a major 7th and minor 2nd. The Lento opening flows serenely but mysteriously, evolving through a relentless Allegro feroce, transitioning to an Adagio Sostenuto reminiscent of plainsong, and culminating in a powerful and enigmatic epilogue featuring recorded cello pizzicato.

    The Folksong Suite for String Orchestra and Timpani draws on six English and Scottish folksongs, including John Peel, Early One Morning, Ca’ the Yowes, Loch Lomond, Dashing Away With The Smoothing Iron, and Lincolnshire Poacher.

    Legacy Recordings:

    Pascal’s Victim for Tuba Quartet, composed for the North West-based Tubalaté, features three movements based on the Gregorian Chant Victamae Paschali. Each movement uniquely fragments the theme, particularly in the slow second movement, where a short melodic motive is varied by gently shifting harmonies.

    Song of Songs: Rhapsody for String Orchestra and Harp is an ethnic-flavoured rhapsody based on Hebraic chants and original material, featuring melodies like “Yigdal” and “Hatikvah.” This piece evokes imagery suited for films set in Biblical times or perhaps documentaries about the Middle East.

    Villancico for Guitar and Small Orchestra bridges the music of the Spanish Renaissance and Joaquin Rodrigo in a charming and lyrical Rondo form, while Aubade Pastorale for String Orchestra is a short tone poem depicting a hazy day in the English countryside, using original themes inspired by the English Pastoral School, particularly Ralph Vaughan Williams.

    Frederick Paul Naftel, born in Manchester in 1956, is an eclectic composer drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as landscapes, nature, and historical events. His compositions span various styles and formats, creating distinct moods and atmospheres. His repertoire includes Concerti for Orchestra, Symphonies, chamber music, and vocal works. Notable works include the Double Concerto for Bass Tuba and Contrabass Tuba, the Bass Clarinet Concerto, Aubade Pastorale, and the Sanctus for female voices, strings, and piano. He received an award from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation in 2020 and was runner-up in the King Lear Arts Competition. Naftel is currently working on his Third Symphony, dedicated to Sir James MacMillan, and future orchestral works. Naftel’s music has been praised for its eccentricity, individuality and distinctive voice in contemporary music.

  • James Cook: Olympus and Apollo

    James Cook: Olympus and Apollo

    Divine Art presents two stunning organ symphonies by renowned composer James Cook, performed by the eminent British organist, Kevin Bowyer. Making his debut on the Divine Art label, Bowyer brings to life Cook’s Symphony No. 8 (“Olympian”) and Symphony No. 9 (“Apollonian”), both crafted in 2006 and masterfully orchestrated in 2011. This remarkable recording took place on the majestic organ of Glasgow University Memorial Chapel in 2023.

    James Cook, a prolific composer born in 1963, studied composition at Oxford University and has since created a vast array of music, including operatic extracts, sacred choral works, and an impressive collection of organ compositions. This new release marks the ninth album of Cook’s music by Divine Art, showcasing his continuous evolution as a composer.

    The Olympian Symphony, Cook’s eighth symphony, is an expansive and evocative piece inspired by Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the Greek gods. It consists of four movements: Soliloquy, a meditative and introspective movement that builds to a powerful climax before gently fading away; Anglais, an energetic and angular dance in 2/2 time, contrasting leaping intervals with scalic melodies; Pastorale, a serene nocturnal scene, mostly quiet with a dynamic central section, concluding with a whispering ppp; and Expansum, grand and noble, featuring majestic chords and sweeping passages that suggest an endless journey. Prefacing the symphony, Cook includes a quote from John Trapp: “Should we not be as serious and sedulous in building staircases for heaven as the wicked are in digging descents to hell.”

    The Apollonian Symphony, Cook’s ninth symphony, depicts the vibrant and varied experiences of a long summer’s day by the seaside in Victorian or Edwardian times. It comprises seven movements: Introduzione, where dawn breaks on a summer morning; Allegro, capturing the excitement of starting the day’s adventures; Allegretto, reflecting a mellow, reflective mood at noon; Alla Marcia, as a military band parades by in the afternoon; Presto, with a playful street urchin mocking the band as it passes; Prestissimo, where the day grows more intense as the late afternoon heat gives way to early evening revelries; and Adagissimo, concluding the day as the visitor retreats to the tranquility of a forest, ending the night in peaceful reflection. The finale is titled with Cook’s own words: “Fractious day yields to sublime night.”

    Kevin Bowyer, celebrated for his unparalleled skill and daring performances, has captivated audiences worldwide. Born in Southend-on-Sea, Bowyer trained at the Royal Academy of Music and further honed his craft under the guidance of David Sanger. His illustrious career includes numerous accolades, such as the prestigious Medal of the Royal College of Organists and the “Lifetime Award” from the German Record Critics in 2023.

  • Diary of the Bee: Chamber Music by Helen Leach

    Diary of the Bee: Chamber Music by Helen Leach

    A Masterpiece Recorded at Historic Marchmont House

    Composer Helen Leach, known for her enchanting compositions that evoke rich landscapes and deep emotions, releases her album titled “Diary of the Bee.” This new collection features a series of rich, tonally traditional compositions. With all tracks being world premiere recordings, the album showcases Leach’s remarkable ability to blend lyrical melodies with profound storytelling.
    “Diary of the Bee” marks a significant addition to the classical repertoire, offering listeners an absorbing journey through Leach’s musical landscapes. Each piece on the album unveils a unique narrative, beautifully performed by leading instrumental soloists alongside the esteemed Victoria String Quartet. Reflecting on the inspiration behind her compositions, Leach shares, “Every piece in this album holds a special place in my heart, drawing from personal experiences and the beauty of nature that surrounds me.” Indeed, each composition in “Diary of the Bee” tells a story, from the evocative tribute to Prince Philip in “An Edinburgh Farewell” to the introspective musings captured in “Letters from the Owl House.”

    Among the highlights of the album is “Cup of Kindness,” a poignant ode to the universal warmth and blessings symbolised by Robert Burns’ iconic line, “we’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet.” With its tender melodies and thoughtful arrangements, the piece resonates with a sense of harmony and peace.

    Another standout track, “Tenera Caritate,” showcases Leach’s mastery in crafting expressive rhapsodies, as she explores themes of love, hope, and healing through the emotive interplay of clarinet and string quartet.

    Listeners will also be enchanted by “Where Hope Was Sown,” a commissioned piece dedicated to Mr. Oliver Burge, of Marchmont Farms, which beautifully captures the essence of the Lapwing bird and its pastoral habitat through delicate musical motifs.
    From the haunting melodies of “The Black Rood of Scotland” to the elegant conversations of “A Song Without Words,” “Diary of the Bee” offers a tapestry of sound that is instantly appealing.

    Recorded at the historic Marchmont House in Scotland, where Leach is Composer-in-Residence, “Diary of the Bee” not only captures the essence of Leach’s compositions but also the timeless beauty of its surroundings. With its richly layered compositions and superb performances, “Diary of the Bee” stands as a testament to Helen Leach’s extraordinary talent and her ability to weave intricate musical narratives.

    The digital edition includes 2 extra tracks:
    Letters from the Owl House: Syzygy (Prelude)
    Letters from the Owl House: Touch of Heaven (Courante)

    Customers purchasing the CD from this website will receive the extra tracks as downloads. Download link is provided via email upon completion of CD purchase.

  • Kefi: Choral & Chamber Works by Lydia Kakabadse

    Kefi: Choral & Chamber Works by Lydia Kakabadse

    British born composer Lydia Kakabadse enjoys a multi-cultural heritage (Greek/Austrian mother and Georgian/Russian father) which deeply informs her musical output. Her new album, recorded in London, features an even more diverse range of music than her previous albums, incorporating ethnic instruments into Western music. Making much use of the ‘alternative string quartet’ (violin viola, cello and double bass), the title track Kefi also introduces the Greek Bouzouki. While demonstrating a wide diversity of textures and styles, overall the music is coloured by use of the double harmonic scale. As well as a number of chamber works the highlight of the album is the choral work Thirty Steps commissioned by the Hellenic Institute at Royal Holloway whose choir, widely regarded as among the best mixed-voice choirs in Britain today, perform the work here. The other performers here are all experienced and very well regarded in their own fields.

    Lydia Kakabadse, celebrated for her diverse music, specialises in choral, chamber, and vocal compositions. Influenced by her multicultural background and upbringing in Greek and Russian Orthodox traditions, she draws inspiration from Orthodox Church music, medieval melodies, and Greek and Middle Eastern dance. Trained in piano and double bass from a young age, she pursued music studies at Royal Holloway, University of London. Her works, including string quartets, choral pieces, and concert requiems, have garnered critical acclaim and have been featured on recordings by labels such as Naxos and Divine Art. Notable commissions include “I Remember” for Forest Preparatory School and “Odyssey” for The Hellenic Institute. Her compositions have been performed internationally at festivals and by esteemed ensembles, and her string quartet “Russian Tableaux” has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3. Currently pursuing a PhD in ethnomusicology, Lydia continues to enrich the musical landscape with her distinctive and vibrant creations.

  • Thomas Pitfield: His Friends & Contemporaries

    Thomas Pitfield: His Friends & Contemporaries

    “Thomas Pitfield: His Friends & Contemporaries” pays homage to the multifaceted talent of Thomas Baron Pitfield (1903-1999). Pitfield was not just a composer; he embodied the essence of a Renaissance man, excelling in various fields including teaching, visual arts, poetry, writing, furniture making, and ornithology. Despite his immense talents, Pitfield remained modest and unassuming, dedicating himself to nurturing the gifts of his students at the Royal Manchester College of Music, where he taught composition from 1947 onwards.

    This album sheds light on Pitfield’s contributions to the classical music landscape, showcasing his compositions alongside those of his contemporaries including John Joubert, E. J. Moeran, Ernst Hermann Meyer, John McCabe, and many more. While Pitfield’s name may not be as widely recognized as some of his peers from the “Manchester School,” such as Richard Hall, his music exudes charm, wit, and inventiveness that captivate listeners. In an era marked by the emergence of modernist compositions, Pitfield chose to traverse the middle ground, creating music that resonates with its timeless appeal.

    Throughout his tenure as a composition teacher, Pitfield played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of notable composers like John McCabe, David Ellis, and John Golland, the latter of whom also shared a close personal friendship with Pitfield. Despite being somewhat overshadowed by the achievements of his contemporaries, Pitfield’s legacy lives on through a revival of interest in his music.

    The album offers a glimpse into Pitfield’s musical world, featuring a selection of chamber and instrumental works that highlight his artistic vision and craftsmanship. Pitfield’s compositions are filled with elegance, lyricism, and emotional depth. His music not only showcases his technical skill but also reflects his genuine love for the art form and his dedication to inspiring future generations of musicians.

    Moreover, the album serves as a tribute to Pitfield’s enduring influence on his peers and students. His selfless encouragement and mentorship left an indelible mark on those he taught, fostering a sense of camaraderie among composers and musicians. Pitfield’s generosity of spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence resonate throughout the album, underscoring his legacy as both an artist and an educator.

    This double album celebrates the life and work of a remarkable individual whose contributions to the world of classical music extend far beyond his compositions. Through this album, listeners will rediscover the brilliance of Thomas Baron Pitfield and the rich music woven by his friends and contemporaries.

  • Joseph Sonnabend: Instrumental and Chamber Works

    Joseph Sonnabend: Instrumental and Chamber Works

    2025 Contemporary Music International Classical Music Award Nominee

    Dr. Joseph Sonnabend: A Musical Journey Reflecting a Life of Compassion and Innovation

    Renowned AIDS researcher and clinician Dr. Joseph Sonnabend, who was known for his groundbreaking work in HIV/AIDS research, had a hidden facet of his extraordinary life – as a composer. Despite his illustrious medical career, Joseph Sonnabend’s passion for composition remained largely concealed from the public eye. However, with this album, we are invited into his world of instrumental and chamber works, showcasing his exceptional talent and profound musical sensibility.

    The collection of pieces featured on offers a glimpse into Dr. Sonnabend’s rich musical landscape. From piano solos to chamber works, each composition bears the mark of his deep appreciation for chromatic melodies and harmony, influenced by composers such as Alban Berg and Arnold Schoenberg.

    Collaborator Dr Andrew Toovey, who played a pivotal role in bringing Dr. Sonnabend’s compositions to life, reflects on the process: “Working with Joseph on his compositions was certainly a fascinating journey for both of us.” Together, they meticulously curated a selection of works, refining unfinished pieces and even commissioning new ones, resulting in a cohesive representation of the Sonnabend soundworld.

    Listeners can expect to be delighted by the diverse range of compositions, each offering a unique musical experience. Highlights include the Piano Trio, which weaves a chromatic melodic line throughout its entirety, and “Fluctuations,” a mesmerizing solo violin piece that oscillates between reflective and virtuosic passages.

    In addition to instrumental works, the album features poignant vocal pieces such as the Three Songs for soprano and piano accompaniment, which set a collection of haiku poetry to melodic and emotive music, creating a deeply resonant listening experience.

    Reflecting on his late-in-life debut as a composer, Dr. Sonnabend’s journey comes full circle, encompassing a lifetime of compassion, innovation, and artistic expression. His compositions serve not only as a testament to his musical talent but also as a poignant reminder of his profound response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, which he tirelessly battled throughout his career.

    This album is not only a celebration of Dr. Sonnabend’s musical legacy but also a tribute to his unwavering commitment to humanity. As listeners embark on discovering this music, they are invited to experience the depth of emotion and the enduring legacy of a remarkable individual.

    Dr. Joseph Sonnabend (1933-2021) was a pioneering AIDS researcher and clinician, widely respected for his compassionate approach to patient care and his groundbreaking contributions to HIV/AIDS research. In addition to his medical career, Dr. Sonnabend was a prolific composer, whose debut album, “Thoughts and Programme Notes,” offers a glimpse into his remarkable musical talent and creative vision.

  • Matt Dibble: 24 Preludes and Fugues

    Matt Dibble: 24 Preludes and Fugues

    London-based composer Matt Dibble tragically passed away in 2021 shortly after completing his 24 Preludes and Fugues for solo piano. His death, attributed to complications from the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccination, left a void in the classical, jazz, and pop music scenes where he was beloved and respected. Dibble’s compositions showcased his remarkable versatility, blending neo-Baroque, jazz, pop, and modernist influences into a deeply personal collection crafted over six years.

    Despite never meeting the composer, internationally renowned pianist Freddy Kempf undertook the recording of Dibble’s work with great enthusiasm. Produced by Paul Baily, Kempf’s interpretation captured the essence of Dibble’s compositions, reflecting a shared appreciation for musical values. One of the pieces from the collection will soon be included in Trinity College London piano exams, ensuring Dibble’s legacy reaches pianists worldwide. Divine Art Records released the recordings as a tribute to the late composer.

    Freddy Kempf, celebrated for his dynamic performances and expansive repertoire, has collaborated with esteemed conductors and orchestras around the globe. His recordings, including Tchaikovsky and Schumann recitals, as well as Prokofiev and Gershwin concertos, have garnered critical acclaim, establishing him as a masterful and versatile pianist.

    Matt Dibble, born and raised in Southeast London, left a diverse musical legacy spanning classical, jazz, and pop genres. Alongside composing, he was a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer. Dibble’s jazz trio and participation in various bands showcased his eclectic talents, from punk-jazz to Beach Boys tribute performances. In pop music, he released six solo albums and co-founded the successful band Super dB.

    Educated at the University of York and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Dibble honed his skills under the mentorship of Alan Hacker and Tony Coe. His untimely death at the age of 40 marked a profound loss for the music community, robbing it of a visionary artist with boundless creativity and passion.

    Matt Dibble’s posthumously released 24 Preludes and Fugues stand as a testament to his artistic legacy, showcasing his innovative blend of musical styles. Collaborating pianist Freddy Kempf’s interpretation ensures Dibble’s music resonates with audiences worldwide, while Dibble’s diverse musical contributions across genres continue to inspire and be enjoyed by listeners.

  • Highways and Byways: Rarities for Recorder

    Highways and Byways: Rarities for Recorder

    2024 American Record Guide Critic’s Choice

    Highways and Byways: A Double Album of Rarities for Recorder

    A seminal contribution to the canon of recorder music, this recording assumes a pivotal role, enriching the repertoire and captivating audiences with its distinct allure and technical prowess. Serving as a valuable resource for connoisseurs of recorder music and an inviting introduction for novices, Highways and Byways features a diverse array of compositions. Through its discerning curation and expert execution, this recording not only commemorates the recorder’s storied legacy but also fosters an appreciation for its enduring elegance and adaptability.

    John Turner presents recorder pieces by renowned composers such as Lennox Berkeley, John McCabe, and Thomas Pitfield. Discover rare gems by Igor Stravinsky and Alexander Gretchaninov, alongside a remarkable composition for recorder and two violas by the distinguished American composer William Bergsma.

    As a special treat, the album includes two previously unknown pieces by the late Christopher Ball, along with two compositions by John Turner himself, including a homage to Ukraine. It’s a veritable feast of rare and captivating music!

    Renowned as one of today’s leading recorder players, John Turner’s illustrious career spans performances with esteemed ensembles like David Munrow’s Early Music Consort of London and recordings with prestigious orchestras worldwide. With over 600 premieres to his credit, including works by Leonard Bernstein and Peter Sculthorpe, Turner’s artistry has left an indelible mark on the contemporary recorder repertoire.

    Featuring performances by John Turner (recorder), Stephen Bettaney (piano), Laura Robinson (recorder), Catherine Yates (viola), and Alex Mitchell (viola), “Highways and Byways” is a testament to the dedication of these exceptional musicians.

  • Greg Caffrey: Environments

    Greg Caffrey: Environments

    Introducing “Environments,” from acclaimed composer Greg Caffrey, a poignant journey through landscapes both physical and emotional. Recorded in the heart of Belfast at the historic Townsend Street Church, this album captures the essence of a city marked by its tumultuous history and resilient spirit. Caffrey’s compositions, brought to life by the renowned Ulster Orchestra, reflect his own personal journey from the streets of West Belfast to international acclaim.

    Opening the album is “Aingeal,” a deeply personal work written in tribute to a loved one. Set against a backdrop of strings and percussion, the music captures the raw emotions of grief and loss, offering solace and catharsis in its haunting melodies.

    Environments I and II,” are two pieces born from Caffrey’s residencies in Paris, showcasing his mastery of orchestral composition. From the grandeur of a full symphony orchestra to the intimacy of chamber music, these works explore a range of rich sonic landscapes. Each note is imbued with the composer’s profound connection to his surroundings, offering a window into his creative process.

    “A Terrible Beauty,” the centrepiece of the album, unfolds over three movements inspired by the poetry of WB Yeats. Caffrey’s response to the poetry is both evocative and introspective, weaving together themes of beauty, pain, and resilience. With each movement, the music transports listeners on a visceral journey through the depths of human experience, culminating in a profound exploration of the human spirit.

    Through “Environments,” Greg Caffrey invites listeners to reflect on their own environments, both internal and external, and discover the beauty in life’s most poignant moments.

    Conducted by Sinead Hayes with soloists Craig Ogden (guitar) and Daniel Browell (piano).

    Environments II:
    Prizewinning work in the International Conductors Union Composition Contest, Ukraine 2021

    A Terrible Beauty:
    Recommended work’ in the 4th Uuno Klami Composition Prize

  • Tales of the Glens: piano music by Philip Hammond with storytelling by Liz Weir and Colin Urwin

    Tales of the Glens: piano music by Philip Hammond with storytelling by Liz Weir and Colin Urwin

    Tales of the Glens is a journey through Ireland’s Glens of Antrim, as depicted in Anthony Capparelli’s piano album of compositions by Philip Hammond. Inspired by years of immersing himself in Celtic and Scandinavian traditions, Capparelli’s collection beautifully captures the essence of this picturesque region.

    During his tenure as a Thomas J. Watson Fellow, Capparelli delved deep into rural communities, discovering the profound impact of traditional storytelling and music. Guided by the esteemed Liz Weir, a renowned storyteller, he found himself enchanted by the village of Cushendall, where the tapestry of local tales and melodies fueled his passion.

    Teaming up with acclaimed composer Philip Hammond, Capparelli aimed to create an album that not only honours the spirit of the Glens but also transcends musical genres. Through thematic resonance and evocative melodies, each composition pays tribute to the people, folklore, and landscapes that have left an indelible mark.

    The album features selections from “Miniatures and Modulations,” showcasing Hammond’s innovative interpretations of traditional harp tunes. From the whimsical charm of “The Little and Great Mountain” to the poignant allure of “Open the Door Softly,” listeners can experience these ancient melodies in a fresh light.

    The centrepiece of the album is an innovative multi-movement work for pianist and storyteller titled Tales from the Sea of Moyle. A collaboration between Anthony Capparelli, Philip Hammond, and two of Ireland’s most renowned bearers of the storytelling tradition, Liz Weir MBE and Colin Urwin, this work tests the boundaries of collaboration between art forms. Each story is set along the Antrim coast and delivered by the commanding voices of Weir and Urwin, offering the listener guidance, and sometimes warning, on their journey.

    Originally from Wisconsin, USA, Anthony Capparelli is a versatile pianist with a diverse musical background. He has performed solo and chamber music in six countries, showcasing his love for modern repertoire influenced by his upbringing in folk and Irish traditional music. Capparelli has toured extensively in the Midwestern USA, Ireland, and the UK as a chamber musician and has coached with renowned ensembles and pianists such as the Elias String Quartet, Kronos Quartet, Orion Weiss, and Emanuel Ax.

    With a passion for vocal repertoire, he has participated in masterclasses with prominent vocalists and trained at the International Opera Academy. Capparelli’s commitment to accessibility in music is evident through his teaching and performances in unconventional venues such as rural pubs, hospitals, senior care homes, and prisons. Holding a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Iowa and a Postgraduate Soloist Diploma from KASK/Conservatorium in Belgium, he now resides in Gent, Belgium.

  • Gods, Ghosts and Monsters

    Gods, Ghosts and Monsters

    This debut album, from Germany based ensemble Conceptus, features music for tenor and ensemble by Butterworth, Warlock, Holst and Bridge, in addition to Timothy Collins’ Sea Song. Collins has composed and arranged extensively for the ensemble.

    Sea Song – Timothy Collins
    Originally composed in 2018 and set to the poignant poetry of Katherine Mansfield, this evocative piece delves into themes of ageing, sorrow, and loss. Conceptus has brought Collins’ musical narrative to life with an accompanying 10-minute music film available on Apple Music and Youtube.

    Six Songs from a Shropshire Lad – George Butterworth
    Delving into themes of nostalgia and the tragedy of lost youth, this collection, originally composed in 1911, captures the essence of Alfred Edward Housman’s timeless poetry. Collins’ arrangements embellish the poignant resonance of Butterworth’s work, forever etched in the annals of English song.

    The Curlew – Peter Warlock
    Peter Warlock’s masterwork, “The Curlew,” meticulously arranged for Conceptus by Timothy Collins. Woven from the poetry of William Butler Yeats, this haunting composition, originally scored for string quartet, cor anglais, and flute, delves into macabre imagery and desolate landscapes.

    Hymns from the Rig Veda Opus 24 – Gustav Holst
    “Hymns from the Rig Veda,” is transfigured by Conceptus with these arrangements from Timothy Collins. Drawing inspiration from ancient Sanskrit texts dating back to 1500 BCE, Holst’s solo vocal triumph offers a reverent exploration of Hindu philosophical thought. Experience the profound resonance of Holst’s sacred compositions as Conceptus breathes new life into these timeless hymns.

    Three Songs by Frank Bridge
    From the reflective tones of “Come To Me In My Dreams” to the mythological allure of “Love Went A-Riding,” Conceptus navigates the emotional depths of Bridge’s compositions with grace and finesse.

    Conceptus is an international, multi-faceted and multi-disciplinary ensemble with membership drawn from Germany, Russia, Spain, the United Kingdom, Poland and Australia. Formed in 2021, the ensemble is dedicated to bringing new life to great works of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and beyond, with a particular emphasis on Late Romantic British vocal music and song cycles.

    Conceptus has also commissioned works by award-winning German composer, organist and conductor Christoph Ritter, whose Requiem is set for a world premiere and recording in 2024. Conceptus Artistic Director, Scott Robert Shaw, released his acclaimed debut “The English Tenor” on Divine Art in 2023

  • Songs for Our Times

    Songs for Our Times

    In these two premiere recordings Kingdoms and Metropolis, the stories will be familiar to many with their universal subjects, including the need for wisdom within the halls of power; transcendent love; an immigrant’s homesickness; the search for inner peace; all flow through the album evoking the spirit of our day and age. Despite our current turmoil, the overall tone of the album is a hopeful one, making it a welcome balm during our turbulent times.

    Nigerian-American lyricist Chinwe D. John strongly feels that in order to keep classical music thriving and to bring in a new audience, the work of present day composers needs to be supported. Commissioning contemporary day composers, to set music to lyrics directly reflective of our current times, is one way of accomplishing this. It was John who went in search of composers who would share her vision and passion for creating works which could be appreciated and enjoyed, works which would connect an audience and perhaps even take on a cultural significance.

    It is the combined vision of John’s settings and the subsequent compositions by Bernard Hughes and Stuart MacRae which is so effectively brought to life in this recording by the musicians. Tenor Nick Pritchard, soprano Isabelle Haile and pianist Christopher Glynn give wonderful, intimate performances which further connect the listener to the stories presented in Chinwe D. John’s lyrics.

    The production of Songs for Our Times is a testament to collaboration and cooperation, practically reflecting the intent of the artists’ work.