Artist: Rowan Pierce, Choir of Royal Holloway, Orchestra Nova Title: Cecilia McDowall: Cantatas Year Of Release: 2025 Label: Resonus Classics Genre: Classical Quality: FLAC 4bit-192kHz (tracks) Total Time: 01:04:35 Total Size: 2.26 GB

Tracklist:

1. The Ice is Listening: I. Solid Waters (6:11)
2. The Ice is Listening: II. The Ice is Listening (5:56)
3. The Ice is Listening: III. Moulin (4:46)
4. A Winter’s Night: I. In dulci jubilo (4:01)
5. A Winter's Night: II. O Little One Sweet (3:33)
6. A Winter's Night: III. Noël nouvelet (2:14)
7. A Winter's Night: IV. Still, still, still (4:24)
8. A Winter's Night: V. Sussex Carol (3:07)
9. Music of the Stars: I. Music of the Stars (4:53)
10. Music of the Stars: II. The Hardest Thing (3:16)
11. Music of the Stars: III. The Gift to Sing (6:24)
12. Bird of Time: I. O Bird of Time (6:54)
13. Bird of Time: II. Aubade (5:50)
14. Bird of Time: III. To be Bird (3:11)

This album presents a stunning collection of recent cantatas by acclaimed composer Cecilia McDowall, performed by the Choir of Royal Holloway, Orchestra Nova, and conductor George Vass. Known for her 'spicy rhythms and colours' (Gramophone), McDowall's music weaves vibrant textures and emotional depth, drawing listeners into a compelling journey.

The featured works explore diverse themes, from the haunting beauty of ice in The Ice is Listening, to the celestial wonders of Music of the Stars. Also included is the chamber orchestra version of A Winter's Night, a joyful Christmas cantata. McDowall's distinct choral voice shines through, blending introspective reflection with exuberant energy, making this an essential addition to the choral repertoire