Andrew Smith

Lux Illuxit Laetabunda

New Horizons showcases the wealth of exciting, innovative, and occasionally challenging choral music being written today. It encompasses the whole gamut of small-scale choral genres, both secular and sacred, and includes pieces for upper-voice and mixed choirs. With titles by some of the most accomplished choral composers active in Great Britain and abroad, the series introduces new repertoire and fresh talent to a broad spectrum of choirs. New Horizons features composers with growing reputations for quality composition reflecting a strong individual voice. The series is continually expanding and should be the first place to look for attractive and performable contemporary choral music. Set to the text of a 12th-century Sequence in honour of the martyr St Olav and characterized by a mellifluous plainchant-style melody, this glorious motet pulses with understated intensity. The opening drones, performed in free time and re-stated throughout, establish a quiet energy which rises until the luminescent final section, in which the heavens are called to rejoice. The original Sequence provides a stately coda. This is splendid and original music, suitable for both concert and liturgical use.