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Title: Exquisitely tender
Review: This is the premiere recording of the chamber version of Rutter's sweet, simple and affecting Requiem, and is by far the most lovely recording of this score. The textures of the solo instruments combined with the strings, harp and organ (beautifully judged organ playing here) are simply exquisite, expressing the delicate, Faure-inspired heart of Rutter's score like never before. The soprano soloist is a delight, with two beautiful high notes, and much better than the soloist on Rutter's own first recording.The companion pieces are all of great interest, revealing a musically more complex Rutter than is often heard, with none of the ocassionally cloying sweetness of his Christmas carols or music for children. They, like the Requiem, are well performed by the ideally sized ensemble and choir, with excellent diction, beautiful phrasing and some impressive singing. A highly recommended disc, perfect for some contemplative moments alone.
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