Alain: Ave Maria

The English ‘cathedral’ tradition is defined by the sound and musicianship of choristers: in New College’s case boys aged between 9 and 13. In the space of four years, these children become remarkably proficient musicians. Indeed, we might be forgiven for thinking of them solely as musicians, such is their achievement. But they are both children and musicians. And this recording celebrates their musical and vocal prowess in a ‘snapshot’ year. A mixture of solo and ensemble items surveys a wide repertory from Tallis to Jehan Alain. This recording has a fascinating documentary value, but is much more than that: it is an anthology of wonderful choral works whose musical presentation is given even greater depth by the very special qualities of boys’ voices.