David
David Bednall Alma Redemptoris Mater SATB unaccompanied Vocal score 9780193524323 Digital score 9780193538450 A partner antiphon to Bednall’s Ave Regina caelorum, Alma Redemptoris Mater is a tender and expressive setting. In turn, this pair of antiphons compliments Herbert Howells’s setting of the other two Marian antiphons (Salve Regina and Regina Caeli), making for compelling programming. Triplet movement and changing metre create a sense of ebb and flow, and harmonic and melodic interest provoke a sense of peaceful expectancy. 4.5 minutes Aspire to God my soul SATB unaccompanied Choral Sacred Vocal score 9780193524309 Digital score 9780193538443 Aspire to God my soul sets a macaronic text by the composer, with the titular words recurring throughout the setting as an emphatic refrain. This short anthem is optimistic and uplifting in tone, with frequently changing time-signatures that convey a rhythmic fluidity and the flexibility to follow the declamation of the words. Ave Maria Unison upper voices, solo violin, and organ or piano Vocal score 9780193519831 Digital score 9780193537873 Bednall’s beautiful setting of this much-loved prayer is warm, simple, and immediate. The vocal line is expertly lyrical and the accompaniment suitably supporting, with a serene line for solo violin that soars above the texture. Ave Maria was recorded by Benenden Chapel Choir, conducted by Edward Whiting, Jennifer Pike (violin), and David Bednall (organ) on the album Stabat Mater (Regent, REGCD481). 3 minutes Ave Regina Caelorum SATB (with divisions) unaccompanied Vocal score 9780193524316 Digital score 9780193538573 A partner antiphon to Bednall’s Alma Redemptoris Mater, Ave Regina caelorum is a fast and joyful setting. In turn, this pair of antiphons compliments Herbert Howells’s setting of the other two Marian antiphons (Salve Regina and Regina Caeli), making for compelling programming. The central section employs a soprano solo, and the divisi in each of the vocal parts creates a rich and sumptuous texture. 4 minutes Choral Sacred David Bednall is recognized as one of the leading choral composers of his generation, and studied for a PhD in Composition with Professor John Pickard at the University of Bristol. He has an extensive freelance playing and conducting career, and is Organist of The University of Bristol, Sub Organist at Bristol Cathedral, and conducts The University Singers. He studied with Dr. Naji Hakim and David Briggs and was Assistant Organist at Wells Cathedral. He won prizes in Improvisation and Performance at the examination for FRCO. He has improvised on live radio, and performed extensively in the UK and abroad, including a recital at Notre-Dame de Paris. He appeared as stunt-organist on the BBC Series Dr Who. a Gramophone Editor’s Choice. The recording of his Requiem received similar accolades, and a further recording of his choral music, Flame Celestial, received a Gramophone Recommendation. Recent works have included Blessed is the man, The Scholar and Some corner of a foreign field, which sets poems by three First World War soldiers. 2 minutes Assumpta est Maria SATB (with divisions) unaccompanied Vocal score 9780193524309 Digital score 9780193561373 A reflection on the plainchant ‘Assumpta est Maria’ (originally for the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary), this setting tenders a festal feel through its dance-like metre and expansive melismas. The chant is carried through the work, at times presented by a solo soprano or in rich choral harmonizations. 3.5 minutes Many of Bednall’s works have been broadcast on radio and recorded, with the CD Hail, gladdening light being 2 3
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