An array of reviews for Choral Contemplations

Below are a selection of extracts from the reviews of the Phoenix Consort's latest disc, Choral Contemplations.

"The Phoenix Consort’s performance was praised for its strong command of blend and tone, with ‘crystal precision’ and a purity that retained expressive weight. The review called the album ‘an impressive collection of works’ and recommended it to choirs seeking new repertoire."

"These short pieces are given jewel-like treatment and a fitting sense of the numinous from the Phoenix Consort under founder and conductor, Adam Whitmore. The reviewer found that the disc creates a compelling atmosphere of contemplative meditation."

The review describes Choral Contemplations as ‘a lovely contemplative listen’ which ‘really repays close attention’. It praises the Phoenix Consort’s lovely choral tone and sympathy for the composers’ intentions, and judges the repertoire deserving of wider recognition.

The pieces were described as ‘universally well crafted’ and given ‘scrupulously thoughtful performances’ by the young Phoenix Consort. The review also characterised the album as an interesting and useful portfolio of nineteen liturgical choral miniatures.

The album is presented as ‘a compelling new recording’, noting its exploration of sound, silence, tuning and the relationship between music and text. He described it as both a survey of a distinctive circle of composers and a record of a sacred choral-writing approach developed over several decades.

The album was described as ‘an attractive recording of some charming repertoire’, with highlights including works by Noel Skinner, Rosemary Broadbent, Peter Blumsom, Derek Saunders and Adrian Green. The reviewer praised the Phoenix Consort under Adam Whitmore as ‘worthy ambassadors’ for the music.

The Phoenix Consort’s execution of these works is as technically accomplished as it is emotionally resonant, with musical director Adam Whitmore guiding the ensemble (and listener) from meditative moments of profound reflection through the soaring harmonies inspiring near-celestial contentment. All captured, produced and mastered by Convivium Records, who, in their usual expert manner, ensure the quality of the recording more than does justice to the calibre of the musicians.