Hyperion Records

The compositions of Charles Wood (1866–1926) have firmly held their place in the music lists of cathedrals and parishes in England; a considerable number of his pieces have become standard repertoire. Much of his work was published posthumously and his string quartets are awaiting revival.

Wood was Irish and having studied at the Royal College of Music took up residence at Selwyn College, Cambridge, prior to being elected to a fellowship. A portion of his church music was written for the excellent college choirs and this explains the profusion of pieces for double choir.

Wood’s harmonization of the tune Hoe groot de vrugten zijn (from David’s Psalmen, Amsterdam, 1685) is sung as the anthem or hymn This joyful Eastertide.

from notes by William McVicker © 1997