English Hymn Anthems

The first release of 2015 from the Choir of King's College, Cambridge presents the choir singing anthems based on hymn tunes from the Anglican choral tradition. English Hymn Anthems continues the choir's active commitment to expanding the popular understanding of choral repertoire through original research and recording. Highlights include Parry's epic Hear my words, ye people, Ireland's Vexilla Regis, organ preludes on traditional hymns by Parry and Edwards, and Lord, Thou has been our refuge by Vaughan Williams, featuring the trumpeter Alison Balsom. It provides at once a survey of traditional services at King's College Chapel, and a window into the little-known form of the hymn-anthem. King's College Choir owes it's existence to King Henry VI. The 16 choristers are educated at King's College School, whilst the 14 choral scholars and two organ scholars study a variety of subjects in the College. This remains the Choir's raison d'etre, but it's worldwide fame and reputation, enhanced by it's many recordings and broadcasts, has led to high-profile performances around theworld.