In monastic tradition the Psalms were the core of the daily Offices and the monks sang all 150 Psalms during the course of each week. The Anglican reformers spread the Psalter over a monthly cycle, although Proper Psalms are allocated to certain festivals. The chant by William Crotch used here for Psalm 132 is of particular nobility and poise, in keeping with its uplifting text. As in monastic practice the verses are sung in alternation between the two sides of the choir.
from notes by James O'Donnell © 2006
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