Norwich Cathedral Choir & Onyx Brass • Lord of the Dance (CD)

Norwich Cathedral Choir, under the direction of Ashely Grote, sing with superlative passion and intelligence, with their beautifully rounded sound being enhanced by the magnificent Romantic-era Cathedral organ, newly restored in 2023. The programme combines new works by Sally Beamish, Bob Chilcott, and Will Todd, with beloved Christmas carols drawn from all time periods, to which Onyx Brass provide a majestic and brilliant gilding. Particularly noteworthy are Ashley Grote’s own arrangements of the title track, Lord of the Dance, and O Come Emmanuel, showcasing his creative spirit and his deep sympathy with the text.

Ashley Grotewas appointed Master of Music at Norwich Cathedral in September 2012 at the age of 30. Under his direction, Norwich Cathedral Choir has gained a reputation as one of the UK’s leading Cathedral Choirs. Alongsde their core work of singing daily choral services, the choir gives regular concerts, many alongside leading period instrument ensemble Norwich Baroque, broadcasts on national radio and has made numerous recordings to critical acclaim.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary season in 2023, Onyx Brass continues to be the leading light in establishing the brass quintet as a medium for serious chamber music, combining “staggering virtuosity” (Sarah Walker, BBC Radio 3) with the entertaining and articulate style that has become the group’s trademark.

1. O come, Emmanuel, arr. Ashley Grote 4:02

2. Away in a manger, arr. Ashley Grote 3:02

3. Once in Royal David’s City, Descant Stephen Cleobury 4:32

4. Lord of the Dance, arr. Ashley Grote 4:04

5. The First Nowell, arr. David Willcocks 5:23

6. Alleluia! A new work is come on hand, Bob Chilcott 3:11

7. In the stillness, Sally Beamish 2:21

8. O Little town of Bethlehem, Vaughan Williams 3:26

9. In dulci jubilo, arr. Robert Pearsall 3:23

10. I saw three ships, arr. Stuart Nicholson 2:23

11. It came upon a midnight clear, arr. David Willcocks 3:21

12. Silent night, arr. Ashley Grote 3:47

13. Midwinter, Bob Chilcott 4:07

14. While Shepherds watched their flocks, arr. Ashley Grote 2:42

15. My Lord has come, Will Todd 3:41

16. O come, all ye faithful, arr. David Willcocks 4:43

17. Sussex Carol, arr. Bob Chilcott 2:16

18. Hark! The herald-angels sing, arr. David Willcocks 4:03

19. Jingle Bells, arr. David Willcocks 2:15

20. We wish you a merry Christmas, arr. Arthur Warrell 1:49