The fabulous Sir John: A tribute to Sir John Manduell
Sir John Manduell (1928-2017) was a pivotal figure in British music – as composer, BBC producer, first principal of the Royal Northern College of Music and founder of the European Opera Centre. Beloved and revered by musicians, yet someone whose name is shamefully little known outside the music and broadcasting professions.
This album is a sequel to ‘Songs for Sir John’ (DDA 25210) which in tribute to Sir John presented works by 16 composers from more than one generation. On this new album we present music by Sir John himself, and by William Alwyn, Michael Berkeley, Adam Gorb and Richard Stoker, all well crafted works which will give great enjoyment as well as perhaps inspiring musicians to add them to their repertoire.
Even without the Manduell connection this is a wonderfully constructed program of new chamber and vocal music. The performers, like Sir John, are based in and around Manchester, England, which is a dynamic ‘hotspot’ for fine musical creativity.
Track Listing
- Aria for Sir John (3:61)
- Elegy (8:13)
- Recitative and Aria (5:24)
- I. Mignonne, allons voir si al Rose.. (3:26)
- II. D’un vanneur de blé aux vents (2:51)
- III. A sa dame malade (1L44)
- Bell Birds from Nelson (2:45)
- Nocturne and Scherzo (11:23)
- Tom's Twinkle (1:38)
- A Dark Waltz (4:44)
- I. The Ecchoing Green (2:15)
- II. Spring (1:14)
- III. The Divine Image (3:46)
- IV. Laughing Song (0:59)
- V. Nurse's Song (4:09)
- Memento Mary Magdalene, Op. 84 (6:04)
Adam Gorb (b.1958):
John Manduell (1928-2017):
Trois Chansons de la Renaissance
Michael Berkeley (b.1948):
William Alwyn (1905-1985):
Five Songs from 'Songs of Innocence'
Richard Stoker (1938-2021):
Reviews
“This fine disc is a tribute to the late Sir John Manduell. There is much variety on this disc, and much to be treasured. Extensive notes seal the deal. Recommended.
” —Colin Clarke
“Sir John Manduell (1928-2017) was highly revered by people in the music and broadcasting professions… These are strong and radiant performances.You will find this very nicely performed and expertly recorded.
” —Robert A, Moore
“Beautifully compiled disc. The individual pieces on this disc all have their own fine, individual qualities. Sir John’s has individuality of a remarkable and personal kind. There’s a gentle humour, a special sense of timing, a harmonic language which is rather more modal than tonal within phrases but with a hint of key at cadences, and an elegant shaping of the phrases overall. The playing and singing on the whole album are completely compelling, showing a very strong and convincing sense of engagement.
” —Anthony Gilbert
“John Turner brings his wonted elegance. Interesting curios… all useful additions to the repertoire.
” —Fiona Hook
“Very well-made music, well performed and presented.
” —Kevin Mandry
“The styles here range from severe to sweet… natural melodic pliancy.
” —Rob Barnett
“In some ways, the new disc is actually a better tribute than the earlier one [DDA 25210]… a way for the uninitiated to hear some music written by the person who is being lauded. All the performers perform with sensitivity and a sense of suitable deference to the person whose accomplishments the CD is designed to celebrate.
” —Mark J. Estren
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