This unique and innovative album features 15 magnificent arrangements of classic hymns for orchestra by Kenneth Downie.
All hymns have been given imaginative and highly creative treatments, being both contemplative music for personal listening as well as 'pre-service' church music. Most of the 15 tracks can also be used as congregational accompaniment music, thus breathing new life into these timeless classics.
Ranging from soothing to majestic and from bold to sprightly, each hymn has been mixed using state-of-the-art sample libraries as well as using the actual sounds of some of the finest musicians around. These include the BBC Symphony Orchestra, a number of London and Berlin’s most sought after session musicians, the renowned Estonian Chamber Choir, the dulcet tones of a Yamaha CFX 9’ grand piano, and the iconic sounds of the Royal Albert Hall organ. In enhancing the album, Cory band’s Principal Cornet Tom Hutchinson and London-based mezzo soprano Susanne Dymott add their own touch with specially recorded tracks.
To view a promotional video please visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLFnPPYVl78
“This new collection of traditional Classic Hymns will become a welcome resource with beautiful orchestral settings for listening and worship. Kenneth Downie’s imaginative arrangements are enhanced by a track each from Tom Hutchinson’s lyrical cornet and the rich sound of mezzo soprano Susanne Dymott. This recording is one to savour." Stephen Bulla - Composer & Conductor
"Kenneth’s brass band music has been part of my musical experience for 50 years. His prolific writing for brass band displays sincerity, imagination and skill in equal measure. I admire especially the way his subtle harmonic sensibility reaches to the heart of familiar hymns and sacred songs. To experience this for the first time in full orchestral colour is a revelation." Paul Hindmarsh - Music Critic, Journalist & Author
Tracklist:
Fanfare on ‘Now thank we all our God’
All your Anxiety
Come Home!
Featuring Cornet Soloist Tom Hutchinson
Regent Square
He Hideth my Soul
Lathbury
Cwm Rhondda
It is well
Welcome Home
To walk with God
Featuring Vocal Soloist Susanne Dymott
Ring the Bells of Heaven!
Just as I am
Count your Blessings
Sweet hour of Prayer
Bonus track - Softly and tenderly
Please note this download includes digital WAV files. A hard copy of the CD can be ordered here.
For bank transfer or cheque payments please contact Kenneth Downie at kennethfdownie@gmail.com