Here’s another recording that begs the question: why don’t we hear more from this composer? During the past year, several record labels–ASV, Naxos, and Chandos–along with Gloriae Dei Cantores have independently offered their own attempts to rectify this situation, at least regarding Edmund Rubbra’s (1901-86) choral music (reviews of the others will follow soon). Although the majority of these releases feature the same work, the Missa in Honorem Sancti Dominici Op. 66, there also is a scattering of lesser-known pieces, and this disc is notable for including the only available version of Rubbra’s Tenebrae Op. 72. In the form of nine SATB a cappella motets, this “work” presents the texts for the responsories for Maundy Thursday in some of the more effective and moving settings in the entire choral repertoire. Indeed, among this highly underrated English composer’s nearly 60 choral works are many equally worthy pieces yet to be heard on recordings.
The Gloriae Dei Cantores singers, in some of their finest performances on disc, seem to have a special affinity for these often difficult pieces which, although tonal and based on traditional compositional techniques, create their own unique atmosphere through the use of unexpected harmonies, inventive textural shifts, and melodies that are sensitive to the texts’ inflection and phrasing. Especially notable in this regard is the seventh section of the Tenebrae, “Eram quasi agnus innocens” (I was like an innocent lamb). There are many lovely moments throughout all of these works, but the Tenebrae settings and the mass are particularly deserving of serious attention and invite numerous listenings. All of this music is very accessible and enjoys strong, convincing interpretations here that only rarely reveal some choral fatigue (in parts of the mass) by way of slightly under-the-pitch sopranos. Not to worry, though. This is an essential disc for choral enthusiasts new to Rubbra or for those who want to get to know his music better. The sound, from the ideal acoustics of Mechanics Hall in Worcester, Mass., is full, well-balanced, and respectful of detail. [4/24/2001]
