The Diversity of Composer John Rutter

In 2016 John Rutter released a CD called “John Rutter – Visions and Requiem 1986 (New Recording)”  This week on GBW and ACDA Radio we will review the new recording of his “Requiem” using modern day Technology and also give a small hint as to the musical diversity of his creative genius.       The first part of this broadcast will feature “It was a Lover and his Lass” one of the Birthday Madrigals written for jazz great George Shearing…..then three of the six pieces that make up the work “Fancies”….”Tell me where is fancy bred”; “There is a garden in her face”; and “The Urchin’s Song”.          Just before the half way mark you will enjoy the great “Standard” “Skylark” from the American Song Book by Hoagy Carmichael Arranged by Mr. Rutter for choir and Jazz Trio.        There is also a story of a visit to my home in Omaha, Nebraska by Mr. Rutter where upon returning from a day at school I encountered him orchestrating his Requiem on my kitchen table.   Two days later we boarded a plane for Salt Lake City to participate in  the National ACDA convention.  Mr. Rutter had written three folk songs for one of the Honor’s Choirs and he wanted to be on hand for the event.      Did you know that there were about 75 performances of his “Requiem” during the two weeks following the attack on our country on 9/11?   In 2016 Mr. Rutter re-recorded this magnificent work because he felt that while the piece held it’s own, the recording technology available today was much better than in 1985.  He feels the work is intimate, mostly contemplative and Lyric and consolatory, plus is approachable for most singers.   Hope you can enjoy this hour of choral music.   Remember his up coming appearance at the ACDA in Kansas City.

For a look at the CD”s used and a complete list of music heard to look at the blog of http://www.goingbeyondwords.com  website and click on show 2515.