Label Reviews

"An intelligently-planned, wide-ranging disc of fine music for solo piano by four composers, varied in their ethnicity and period, with each work or set of works clearly chosen to appeal broadly to the same music-lover, in doing so broadening their knowledge and listening experience in a wholly positive manner.”

"Phoenix Consort is clearly a crack ensemble, and offers Campkin’s music the very best airing. The music is skilfully conceived, and at its best (generally when he sets Vaughan) can be truly touching."

“A nicely varied disc of superbly crafted music, performed with real expertise by the Camarilla Ensemble.”

"The newer pieces on this disc are interesting, but the real fascination lies with the earlier music. The choir acquits itself very well under the direction of David Bray. Recommended."

"This setting of the Stabat Mater reveals a thoroughly committed composer of genuine gifts... there is a deep sense of pacification running through this fine work."

"The notable Scottish pianist Martin Cousin rings some unusual changes on the fantasia from four composers... a one-off release that brings the rewards of its original programming. ”

“Conservatively tonal and for the most part lively and joyful... good sound and fine performances.”

"What fun they all seem to be having! The album gives little warning of surprises in store for the listener.”

"A talented choral composer... the luminous effects are lighter and more bracing than the shimmering and glimmering we hear from so many of his contemporaries"

"[Osgood's] style is attractive and accessible, displaying a lucid ear for melody and a strong harmonic grasp, bathed in sumptuous string orchestra accompaniment with the composer himself at the piano."

"A pastoral, flowing, discreetly orchestrated composition."

"Cousin’s immense ability is just a given and that puts the focus squarely on the music and him in our debt, as are the Convivium engineers who have provided excellent recorded sound. I wish more piano recitals were as thoughtful as this.”

"A genuinely interesting recital then from a fine vocal ensemble, well recorded in a good acoustic."

“Beautifully written - deeply expressive of the texts – and the choir gives superlative performances.”

"A genuinely enjoyable recital offering impressive and insightful performances of a wide range of often unfamiliar music.”

“There is a divine quality to their voices that feels like we are intruding on the rehearsal of the heavenly host. If you're looking for a rich, colossal Christmas (or Easter, or Ordinary Time), Dan Locklair certainly delivers.”

"There’s never been anything quite like this collection of old English music... full of charming music-making.”

“The Charter Choir of Homerton College, Cambridge give polished performances throughout, characterised by excellent balance and clear but unfussy diction.”

"An overall lovely disc that followers from Charles II’s Restoration period will undoubtedly enjoy, bound with Convivium’s beautiful presentation.”

“Shrapnel once again demonstrates his ability to create a wide variety of atmospheres in miniature form, and the Camarilla Ensemble and friends’ playing communicates the lively and quirky rhythms with precision.”