ENGLISH ANTHEMS FROM CHRIST'S HOSPITAL
Directed by Peter Allwood; Mark Wardell (organ)
CARLTON CLASSICS (30366-00532) 76m00s

This CD brings up classic anthems, a hymn (Jerusalem) and organ pieces, by Lang (Prelude, opus 86) Parry (Chorale Prelude on Eventide) and Elgar (Imperial March). The performances are of a high standard throughout, with a splendid interpretation of Parry's I was glad one of the highlights. Mark Wardell's excellent organ playing makes the disc for me: just listen to the opening of Elgar's The Spirit of the Lord. English 'cathedral' organ playing at its best, with an organ of cathedral proportions to match! Lang's Hail, gladdening Light was new to me. Other 'warhorses' make an appearance: Wesley's Blessed be the God and Father; Elgar's Ave Verum Corpus; Ireland's Greater Love; Hadley's My Beloved Spake; Stainer's I saw the Lord; Balfour Gardiner's Evening Hymn; Harris's Faire is the Heaven; Wood's O Thou, the Central Orb; Jonathan Willcocks' Jubilate. DB