Requiem & Magnificat/Rutter, Cambridge Singers

Rutter's "Requiem" clearly shows the influences of Gabriel Fauré's Requiem, composed about a century earlier, while his "Magnificat" is, in some ways, based on Bach's "Magnificat," especially in the interpolation of additional texts. Both are fairly straightforward pieces, well within the range of amateur choirs.

Both of the recordings feature clear singing from the choir, and subtle playing from the orchestra. My only complaint (a minor one at that) is that occasionally Rutter's forces seem a little too small in the first movement of the "Requiem," but the rapturous cello solo in the second movement, "Out of the Deep," more than makes up for this.

However, at mid-price, this CD is certainly a bargain; fans of the "Requiem" who are looking to acquire a copy certainly would not go wrong with this disc.

For people who are looking for nice easy listening, this is a CD that can be added to their collection. However, for those looking for a serious musical exploration of the themes of life and death, Rutter's Requiem falls far short of the standard set by previous composers. For the most part the music is too saccharine, inundated with cliches that remind the listener of Hollywood movie soundtracks. The Sanctus even sounds somewhat like Christmas music.

In terms of the performance, the orchestra and choir do a very good job, and I applaud the choice of soloists -- very effective singing.

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   Written on January 9, 2001
   Summary: From the singer's perspective
I absolutely adore Rutter's Requiem. This is easily the finest recording of some of the best religious music of this century. Having perfomed this piece locally, I can assure you that it is carried out with technical perfection. Everything is as beautiful and gripping as the composer intended it to be. Usually, when I am exposed to piece this much, I grow tired of it. Not so with Rutter's Requiem. I am spellbound every time I hear it. This is the sort of album that will do more than enrich your music collection; it will enrich your life.