Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

One definition of a classic classical piece is that there are multiple recordings of it from which to choose. Since 1986 John Rutter's 'Requiem' has been recorded and repackaged several times and has entered the repertoire of many choirs both home and abroad. What we have on this well presented new release is a new recording conducted by the composer with the latest generation of his own Cambridge Singers. No doubt audiophiles will appreciate the improvements in recording technology since the first edition and Rutter collectors will enjoy the repackaging but for the general listener the more significant question will be to ask what comes with it. The 'Requiem' comes in at under an hour which is a good length for a concert piece but a little short for a full-price CD release so we expect something to be added to get us closer to the usual 70 minutes. And please: no filler! The new composition here receiving its recorded debut is 'Visions', a four-movement showpiece for solo violin (Kerson Leong, winner of the 2010 Junior Menuhin Prize), string orchestra and harp (from the Aurora Orchestra), and choir of treble voices (The Temple Choir Boys' Choir). The composition is based on the holy city of Jerusalem as seen through the prophetic imagination and was written for the 2016 Menuhin Competition. The concept sounds like something Rutter's contemporary John Tavener may have explored but here it is done in Rutter's own melodic style. Much as I enjoy listening to Tavener there is little of his that I can sing whereas Rutter is always more approachable, both for performers and listeners. However at twenty-minutes I am not sure that 'Visions' is worth the cost of admission all on its ownsome. If your copy of 'Requiem' has worn out or you are such a fan of John Rutter that you don't mind having a different recording of an old favourite then this new release is indispensable. However if you already have a copy or the Requiem in your CD rack and don't really want another thank you very much I am not sure that 'Visions' on its own is strong enough to represent value for money. Having said this, if you have yet to invest in Rutter's Requiem this package is well worth it.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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