Brian Easdale: Ubi Caritas Et Amor (Novello New Choral Series)
An inspiring selection of new works from a range of contemporary composers, the Novello New Choral Series offers pieces for all types of choirs, including sacred and secular works from simple, four-part settings to more expansive, yet accessible, repertoire in an exciting variety of styles.Ubi caritas et amor is a simple, reflective anthem for mixed-voice choir and organ.Brian Easdale was educated at Westminster Abbey Choir School and attended the Royal College of Music, where he won the Foli Scholarship for composition. He wrote his first opera, Rapunzel, when only 17, and went on to composer many other dramatic and orchestral works, including the chamber opera The Sleeping Children. The Missa Coventriensis is one of his larger choral works, composed for the consecration of Coventry Cathedral in 1962. Easdale is perhaps most famous for his film music, including Black Narcissus and The Red Shoes, for which he won an Academy Award for best original music score in 1948."Ubi Caritas is the work of a craftsman steeped, naturally, in the musical culture of the inter-war years. It commends itself in its quiet yet muscular and expansive response to the text. With minimal divisi, it is within the capability of a good church choir." - Howard Layfield, Mastersinger
