Various Composers - Sky of my Heart (New York Polyphony)

Information

1. William Byrd - Ecce quam bonum, T 96
2. Ivan Moody - Canticum Canticorum I: I. Surge propera amica mea
3. Ivan Moody - Canticum Canticorum I: II. Descendi in hortum meum
4. Ivan Moody - Canticum Canticorum I: III. Ego dilecto meo
5. John Tavener - The Lamb
6. Becky McGlade - Of the Father’s Love Begotten
7. Akemi Naito - Tsuki no Waka
8. Paul Moravec - The Last Invocation
9. Paul Moravec - Darest Thou Now, O Soul
10. William Byrd - Mass for Four Voices, T 1: Agnus Dei
11. Andrew Smith - Katarsis
12. Nico Muhly - My Days
13. Orlando Gibbons - The Silver Swan

New York Polyphony

    Geoffrey Williams, counter-tenor

    Steven Caldicott Wilson, tenor

    Andrew Fuchs, tenor

    Craig Phillips, bass

LeStrange Viols (10, 12 & 13)

    Loren Ludwig & John Mark Rozendaal, treble viol

    Kivie Cahn-Lipman, tenor viol

    Zoe Weiss & Douglas Kelley, bass viol

Date: 2025

Label: BIS

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New York Polyphony is a leading vocal chamber ensemble known for its inventive programming that spans from Gregorian chant to contemporary works. Their album Sky of My Heart reflects this breadth, presenting music that spans over 400 years and explores themes of life, death, and spirituality. The program includes pieces inspired by personal loss and pandemic isolation, blending early music with modern compositions rooted in plainsong traditions and enriched by contemporary harmonies. Joined by LeStrange Viols on select tracks, the ensemble offers a poignant and atmospheric listening experience, culminating in a moving rendition of Gibbons’ The Silver Swan.

New York Polyphony, founded in 2006, is one of today's leading vocal chamber ensembles, praised for its rich, pure sound and superb musicianship. Renowned for bridging early music and contemporary works, their programming spans Gregorian chant to modern commissions, with a special focus on rarely heard pieces from the 12th to 17th centuries. Their discography includes two GRAMMY-nominated albums and critically acclaimed releases such as And the sun darkened and Lamentationes. Known for innovative collaborations, including the multimedia Aleph Earth, they tour internationally, performing at top venues and festivals. Their unique blend of historical depth and modern artistry continues to captivate global audiences.