Cantica Nova is an outstanding collection of new motets by contemporary British composers. Scored for mixed voices - a cappella and with organ the pieces present a kaleidoscope of different styles and sonorities, united in their ability to communicate fresh ideas and the skill of their vocal writing. Here are dancing, energetic rhythms and rich, ecstatic chords; simple, plainchant lines and overlapping, mesmeric phrases; pieces direct and strong and pieces radiant and spacious; motet telling in their simplicity and motets dramatic and theatrical. Encompassing a wide range of texts, with settings of some of the great hymns of the Church alongside little-known, rarely set texts, the collection will be welcomed by concert and church choirs seeking innovative and exciting contemporary repertoire. |