Western religious music from different centuries. This episode features the music by English composer William Boyce (1711-1779), with his cantata “David’s Lamentation over Saul and Jonathan” as the main work.
William Boyce was considered one of the most important composers in England at the time of Händel, but during his lifetime, he only ever played the second fiddle in musical life. He attracted attention in 1742 with the serenata “Solomon’” Since then, he regularly composed for theatre.
He was also active as an organist in various churches. In 1755, he became Master of the King’s Musick and three years later he was appointed organist of the Chapel Royal.
The main work in this programme is the cantata “David’s Lamentation over Saul and Jonathan”, on a libretto by John Lockman, which is based on the first chapter of the Old Testament book of 2 Samuel.
We will hear the work in the version that was performed in Dublin in 1744.
William Boyce (1711-1779)
1. David’s Lamentation over Saul and Jonathan
William Purefroy, Andrew Watts, alto. Richard Edgar-Wilson, tenor. Choir of New College, Oxford; The Hanover Band conducted by Graham Lea-Cox
(CD: “David’s Lamentation over Saul and Jonathan” – ASV Gaudeamus CD GAU 208, 2000)
2. The Lord is King
Choir of New College, Oxford conducted by Edward Higginbottom. Gary Cooper, organ
(CD: “Select Anthems” – CRD 3483, 1992)
Additional:
3. Voluntary VII
Gary Cooper, organ
(CD: see 2)
