Hyperion Records

There is just one new Hyperion recording for December 2011, but the cataclysmic Havergal Brian Gothic Symphony is every bit worthy of its Record of the Month billing. Recorded live at the 2011 BBC Proms, this 'significant musical event' is led by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the BBC Concert Orchestra under Martyn Brabbins: over 200 players are joined by soloists and an 800-strong chorus. Astonishing.

The full forces are:
Susan Gritton (soprano), Christine Rice (mezzo-soprano), Peter Auty (tenor), Alastair Miles (bass)
The Bach Choir, BBC National Chorus of Wales, Brighton Festival Chorus, CBSO Youth Chorus, Côr Caerdydd, Eltham College Boys’ Choir, Huddersfield Choral Society, London Symphony Chorus, Southend Boys’ and Girls’ Choirs, David Goode (organ)
BBC National Orchestra of Wales, BBC Concert Orchestra
Martyn Brabbins (conductor)