Behold, O God our defender (Howells) - from CDA66260 - Hyperion Records

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Track(s) taken from CDA66260

Behold, O God our defender

composer

Herbert Howells (1892-1983)

25 December 1952; commissioned as the introit for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II

author of text

Bible

Psalm 84: 9-10

St Paul's Cathedral Choir, John Scott (conductor), Christopher Dearnley (organ)

Recording details: June 1987
St Paul's Cathedral, London, United Kingdom
Produced by Mark Brown
Engineered by Antony Howell
Release date: April 1988
Total duration: 4 minutes 2 seconds

Other recordings available for download

The Choir of Trinity College Cambridge, Stephen Layton (conductor), Eleanor Kornas (organ)» More

Queen's College Choir Oxford, Owen Rees (conductor), David Bednall (organ)» More

Reviews

‘A very recommendable issue indeed, which will give the most lasting satisfaction’ (Music and Musicians)

Introduction
English

In November 1952, Howells was invited to compose a short Introit for the Coronation Service of Queen Elizabeth II. The text was to be verses from Psalm 84, beginning ‘Behold, O God our defender’. He completed this quiet, reflective prelude to a great state occasion at the end of that year, on Christmas Day. For the Coronation itself the combined choirs were large and Howells provided a fully orchestrated score, but this sensitive anthem is more usually heard, as here, with smaller forces and organ accompaniment.

Other albums featuring this work

Howells: Collegium Regale & other choral works

The Choir of Trinity College Cambridge, Stephen Layton (conductor)

Studio Master: CDA68105Studio Master FLAC & ALAC downloads available

A triumphant new complete recording of Howells’ liturgical masterpiece—from the finest of choirs.» More

Howells: The house of the mind & other choral works

Queen's College Choir Oxford, Owen Rees (conductor)

Studio Master: SIGCD491Download onlyStudio Master FLAC & ALAC downloads available

A programme celebrating the works and influence of Herbert Howells within the vibrant English choral tradition of the last hundred years.» More