Matthew Coleridge - The Breath of Life (Rupert Gough)

Information

Composer: Matthew Coleridge

• The Breath of Life
• Requiem Motets
• 3 Songs of Light

Simon Earl, organ

Maxim Calver, cello

Lionel Handy, cello

Southern Sinfonia

The Choir of Royal Holloway

Rupert Gough, conductor

Date: 2026

Label: Convivium Records

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The Breath of Life by Matthew Coleridge is a vibrant cantata for choir and orchestra that serves as a joyful counterpart to his earlier Requiem. Conceived as a celebration of vitality and positivity, the work emphasizes energy, rhythm, and a sense of wonder. Drawing inspiration from sacred traditions, it weaves together diverse texts, including psalms, hymns, and writings by mystics and scientists. The composition reflects on themes of human existence, nature, and the divine, offering a luminous and uplifting musical experience that highlights both spiritual depth and an exuberant affirmation of life.

Matthew Coleridge (born 1980) is a prominent British choral composer whose work has gained widespread recognition both in the UK and internationally. His breakthrough composition, Requiem, is among the most frequently performed contemporary choral works and regularly features in Classic FM’s Hall of Fame. Coleridge’s music is performed in major venues worldwide, and he is known for leading participatory “come-and-sing” events across Europe. He has composed for distinguished ensembles and soloists, and maintains a notable collaboration with Rupert Gough and The Choir of Royal Holloway, whose 2022 recording of Requiem received critical acclaim and was named Classic FM’s Album of the Week in 2023.

Rupert Gough (born 1971) is a distinguished British choral conductor, organist, and keyboard player. Since 2005 he has served as Director of Choral Music and College Organist at Royal Holloway, University of London, and is also Director of Music at Great Saint Bartholomew, London. Formerly Assistant Organist at Wells Cathedral, he has built an extensive discography of nearly 50 recordings as conductor, organist, and harpsichordist. Renowned for his work in both sacred and contemporary repertoire, he collaborates regularly with leading orchestras, choirs, and soloists, and is internationally active as a performer and educator.

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