This debut album, from Germany-based ensemble Conceptus, features music for tenor and ensemble by Butterworth, Warlock, Holst, and Bridge, in addition to Timothy Collins’ Sea Song. Collins has composed and arranged extensively for the ensemble.

Sea Song – Timothy Collins
Originally composed in 2018 and set to the poignant poetry of Katherine Mansfield, this evocative piece delves into themes of aging, sorrow, and loss. Conceptus has brought Collins' musical narrative to life with an accompanying 10-minute music film available on Apple Music and YouTube.

Six Songs from a Shropshire Lad – George Butterworth
Delving into themes of nostalgia and the tragedy of lost youth, this collection, originally composed in 1911, captures the essence of Alfred Edward Housman's timeless poetry. Collins' arrangements embellish the poignant resonance of Butterworth's work, forever etched in the annals of English song.

The Curlew – Peter Warlock
Peter Warlock's masterwork, "The Curlew," meticulously arranged for Conceptus by Timothy Collins. Woven from the poetry of William Butler Yeats, this haunting composition, originally scored for string quartet, cor anglais, and flute, delves into macabre imagery and desolate landscapes.

Hymns from the Rig Veda Opus 24 – Gustav Holst
"Hymns from the Rig Veda" is transfigured by Conceptus with these arrangements from Timothy Collins. Drawing inspiration from ancient Sanskrit texts dating back to 1500 BCE, Holst's choral triumph offers a reverent exploration of Hindu philosophical thought. Experience the profound resonance of Holst's sacred compositions as Conceptus breathes new life into these timeless hymns.

Three Songs by Frank Bridge
From the reflective tones of "Come To Me In My Dreams" to the mythological allure of "Love Went A-Riding," Conceptus navigates the emotional depths of Bridge's compositions with grace and finesse.

Conceptus is an international, multi-faceted, and multi-disciplinary ensemble with membership drawn from Germany, Russia, Spain, the United Kingdom, Poland, and Australia. Formed in 2021, the ensemble is dedicated to bringing new life to great works of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and beyond, with a particular emphasis on Late Romantic British vocal music and song cycles.

Conceptus has also commissioned works by award-winning German composer, organist, and conductor Christoph Ritter, whose Requiem is set for a world premiere and recording in 2024. Conceptus Artistic Director, Scott Robert Shaw, released his acclaimed debut “The English Tenor” on Divine Art in 2023.

Introducing "Environments," from acclaimed composer Greg Caffrey, a poignant journey through landscapes both physical and emotional. Recorded in the heart of Belfast at the historic Townsend Street Church, this album captures the essence of a city marked by its tumultuous history and resilient spirit. Caffrey's compositions, brought to life by the renowned Ulster Orchestra, reflect his own personal journey from the streets of West Belfast to international acclaim.

The album opens with "Environments I & II," two pieces born from Caffrey's residencies in Paris, showcasing his mastery of orchestral composition. From the grandeur of a full symphony orchestra to the intimacy of chamber music, these works explore a range of rich sonic landscapes. Each note is imbued with the composer's profound connection to his surroundings, offering a window into his creative process.

"A Terrible Beauty," the centerpiece of the album, unfolds over three movements inspired by the poetry of WB Yeats. Caffrey's response to the poetry is both evocative and introspective, weaving together themes of beauty, pain, and resilience. With each movement, the music transports listeners on a visceral journey through the depths of human experience, culminating in a profound exploration of the human spirit.

Closing the album is "Aingeal," a deeply personal work written in tribute to a loved one. Set against a backdrop of strings and percussion, the music captures the raw emotions of grief and loss, offering solace and catharsis in its haunting melodies. Through "Environments," Greg Caffrey invites listeners to reflect on their own environments, both internal and external, and discover the beauty in life's most poignant moments.

Conducted by Sinead Hayes with soloists Craig Ogden (guitar) and Daniel Browell (piano).

Note:
"Environments II" is a prizewinning work in the International Conductors Union Composition Contest, Ukraine 2021.

"A Terrible Beauty" is a recommended work in the 4th Uuno Klami Composition Prize.

"Tales of the Glens" is a journey through Ireland's Glens of Antrim, as depicted in Anthony Capparelli's piano album of compositions by Philip Hammond. Inspired by years of immersing himself in Celtic and Scandinavian traditions, Capparelli's collection beautifully captures the essence of this picturesque region.

During his tenure as a Thomas J. Watson Fellow, Capparelli delved deep into rural communities, discovering the profound impact of traditional storytelling and music. Guided by the esteemed Liz Weir, a renowned storyteller, he found himself enchanted by the village of Cushendall, where the tapestry of local tales and melodies fueled his passion.

Teaming up with acclaimed composer Philip Hammond, Capparelli aimed to create an album that not only honors the spirit of the Glens but also transcends musical genres. Through thematic resonance and evocative melodies, each composition pays tribute to the people, folklore, and landscapes that have left an indelible mark.

The album features selections from "Miniatures and Modulations," showcasing Hammond's innovative interpretations of traditional harp tunes. From the whimsical charm of "The Little and Great Mountain" to the poignant allure of "Open the Door Softly," listeners can experience these ancient melodies in a fresh light.

The centerpiece of the album is an innovative multi-movement work for pianist and storyteller titled Tales from the Sea of Moyle. A collaboration between Anthony Capparelli, Philip Hammond, and two of Ireland’s most renowned bearers of the storytelling tradition, Liz Weir MBE and Colin Urwin, this work tests the boundaries of collaboration between art forms. Each story is set along the Antrim coast and delivered by the commanding voices of Weir and Urwin, offering the listener guidance, and sometimes warning, on their journey.

Originally from Wisconsin, USA, Anthony Capparelli is a versatile pianist with a diverse musical background. He has performed solo and chamber music in six countries, showcasing his love for modern repertoire influenced by his upbringing in folk and Irish traditional music. Capparelli has toured extensively in the Midwestern USA, Ireland, and the UK as a chamber musician, collaborating with renowned ensembles and pianists such as the Elias String Quartet, Kronos Quartet, Orion Weiss, and Emanuel Ax. With a passion for vocal repertoire, he has participated in masterclasses with prominent vocalists and trained at the International Opera Academy. Capparelli's commitment to accessibility in music is evident through his teaching and performances in unconventional venues such as rural pubs, hospitals, senior care homes, and prisons. Holding a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Iowa and a Postgraduate Soloist Diploma from KASK/Conservatorium in Belgium, he now resides in Gent, Belgium.

Divine Art presents the songs of Thomas Pitfield, a revered composer whose catalogue boasts over 150 songs crafted over a lifetime of creativity and dedication. From heartfelt dedications to friends and colleagues to whimsical folk-inspired tunes, Pitfield's compositions offer a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences, showcasing his versatility and depth as an artist.

This meticulously curated selection of songs is elegantly presented in a volume adorned with his own captivating artwork. The collection stands as a testament to Pitfield's legacy with evocative interpretations of his songs by acclaimed tenor James Gilchrist, accompanied by the virtuosic pianist Nathan Williamson. With Gilchrist's emotive performances and Williamson's consummate skill at the keys, listeners are invited on a sophisticated journey through the melodies and moods of Pitfield's musical landscape. The album celebrates the remarkable legacy of Thomas Pitfield, whose enduring contributions to the world of music continue to resonate and inspire.

James Gilchrist
Renowned for his expressive interpretations and captivating stage presence, James Gilchrist embarked on a full-time music career in 1996 after beginning his professional life as a doctor. With a repertoire spanning from baroque to contemporary music, Gilchrist has performed in prestigious venues worldwide under the baton of renowned conductors such as Sir John Eliot Gardiner and Harry Christophers. His discography boasts a diverse range of recordings, including critically acclaimed interpretations of British song cycles and baroque masterpieces.

Nathan Williamson
Pianist and composer Nathan Williamson is celebrated for his innovative collaborations and dynamic performances. From recording projects with esteemed tenor James Gilchrist to premiering compositions by contemporary composers, Williamson's artistry knows no bounds. His discography includes acclaimed recordings of American and British piano repertoire, earning praise for his thoughtful interpretations and passionate delivery. As both performer and composer, Williamson continues to push the boundaries of classical music, captivating audiences with his boundless creativity and virtuosity.

Dr. David Charles Johnson (27 October 1942 in Edinburgh – 30 March 2009 in Edinburgh) was a Scottish composer and a scholar of 18th-century Scottish music. Johnson was 'an internationally recognized scholar' whose work significantly contributed to rediscovering and redefining 18th-century Scottish music within its historical context. His research focused on the music and social life of lowland Scotland during the 18th century, exploring influences, tastes, and key musical figures of the era.

Johnson’s 12 Preludes and Fugues are among the few significant pieces he composed for the piano, alongside a five-minute Sonata. Written in the early to mid-1990s and published in 1995, these compositions are notable for their unique blend of sound, reminiscent of 20th-century composers like Hindemith or Prokofiev, while incorporating elements such as quotations from Bach and references to Hugh MacDiarmid's work. They also feature direct quotations of popular tunes like 'Johnny Cope' and 'The Animals Went Marching Two by Two', infused with a distinct Scottish flavor. The thematic backbone of the suite is borrowed from Aberdonian composer Shaun Dillon, using the Scots-Gaelic word bheatha, ‘life’, represented musically by the notes B-flat, B, E, A. Johnson masterfully employs this motif to form a tone row, guiding the keys across the 12 works in the suite, making his Preludes and Fugues a unique and distinguished addition to Scottish piano music.

Christopher Guild is making waves on the international music scene for his exceptional work with British, particularly Scottish, piano music. He has recorded numerous albums for esteemed labels such as Toccata Classics, Piano Classics, and Champs Hill Records, featuring works by renowned composers like Ronald Stevenson, Francis George Scott, and Bernard van Dieren. His upcoming recording for Divine Art marks another milestone in his career, further solidifying his reputation as a prominent interpreter of British piano repertoire.

Divine Art proudly introduces Burkard Schliessmann's distinctive interpretation of Robert Schumann's inner world through the groundbreaking recording project, "Fantasies." At Berlin's Teldex Studios, Schliessmann, having immersed himself in Schumann's oeuvre, sought to reveal the inner germ cells of the music, pushing expressive and explosive boundaries. Collaborating with producer Julian Schwenkner and engineer Jupp Wegner, he employed 14 microphones for a Dolby Atmos experience, capturing the intricacies of Schumann's compositions on 3 SACDs, including an alternative interpretation of Fantasiestücke Op. 12.

Revisiting the Fantasia in C Op. 17, Schliessmann accentuates structural complexities, drawing parallels to Wagner's Tristan, and presents rhythmic and technical extremes in the second movement. The 'Fantasies' recording unfolds a slower tempo in the third movement, providing a genuine listening experience with heightened poetry and explosive electricity. As Burkard Schliessmann navigates Schumann's intricate musical world in "Fantasies," this release stands as a landmark in classical piano recordings, complementing his previous album, "Live & Encores." A must-have for true collectors of excellent piano recordings, "Fantasies" continues Schliessmann's legacy of delivering extraordinary interpretations that resonate with the discerning classical music enthusiast.

Introducing the exclusive release, "John Boyden, a Celebration," a tribute to a lifelong journey in classical music—a journey that began in the recording industry where John served as an executive and distinguished producer. His ground-breaking venture, Classics for Pleasure, achieved an extraordinary feat by selling four million classical recordings in just four years. Following this success, John assumed the role of the inaugural Managing Director of the London Symphony Orchestra during a challenging phase in its history. Subsequently, he went on to establish multiple independent classical record companies and the New Queen’s Hall Orchestra, committed to reviving the performance styles of the early twentieth century.

This album features two iconic recordings produced by John Boyden and a captivating new rendition of Schubert's Piano Quintet in A major, D. 667 (“Die Forelle/The Trout”), performed by the New Queen’s Hall Orchestra. "John Boyden, a Celebration" pays homage to one of the British music industry’s most esteemed individuals, ensuring his legacy resonates with classical music enthusiasts.

Dedicated with kind permission to H.M. The Queen, the patron of the New Queen’s Hall Orchestra, a testament to the profound impact of John's contributions to the world of classical music.

Introducing the exclusive release, "John Boyden, a Celebration," a tribute to a lifelong journey in classical music—a journey that began in the recording industry where John served as an executive and distinguished producer. His ground-breaking venture, Classics for Pleasure, achieved an extraordinary feat by selling four million classical recordings in just four years. Following this success, John assumed the role of the inaugural Managing Director of the London Symphony Orchestra during a challenging phase in its history. Subsequently, he went on to establish multiple independent classical record companies and the New Queen’s Hall Orchestra, committed to reviving the performance styles of the early twentieth century.

This album features two iconic recordings produced by John Boyden and a captivating new rendition of Schubert's Piano Quintet in A major, D. 667 (“Die Forelle/The Trout”), performed by the New Queen’s Hall Orchestra. "John Boyden, a Celebration" pays homage to one of the British music industry’s most esteemed individuals, ensuring his legacy resonates with classical music enthusiasts.

Dedicated with kind permission to H.M. The Queen, the patron of the New Queen’s Hall Orchestra, a testament to the profound impact of John's contributions to the world of classical music.

Parallels is meticulously curated album that explores the organ’s remarkable breadth and sonority. Featuring three monumental organ works and delightful arrangements of English classics, the collection is a testament to the grandeur and versatility of the instrument.

Florence Price's Suite No. 1, makes its debut commercial recording. This substantial and captivating composition draws inspiration from spirituals, hymns, and pentatonic themes, showcasing a harmonious fusion of jazz influences. The rhythmic drive and themes in the final Toccato pay homage to the engaging Rubrics by Dan Locklair, creating a seamless connection between the featured works. The album's title, Parallels, reflects Florence Price's artistic vision, aiming to convey a heritage through the past while being influenced by contemporary contacts. This intention is beautifully realised in Suite No. 1, where the chromatic harmony reminiscent of Suite Gothique meets the rhythmic vitality of Rubrics. As a nod to the present day, the album includes Alexander's own arrangement of Coldplay's hit single Paradise, seamlessly blending modernity with Price's timeless compositions. Parallels is not just an album; it's a transformative auditory experience that invites listeners to explore the intersections of tradition and innovation on the Harrison and Harrison organ. The past converges with the present in perfect harmony.

The surprise appearances of music not typically associated with the organ successfully adds an element of excitement and discovery. The album also features splendid organ arrangements of English staples like Elgar's Chanson de Matin and Pomp and Circumstance, further showcasing the instrument's versatility. "Parallels" is an invitation to discover the intersections of tradition and innovation, a celebration of timeless compositions, and a showcase of the capabilities of Cheltenham College Chapel’s Harrison and Harrison organ. This album also celebrates the 150th anniversary of Gustav Holst’s birth with the inclusion of Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity fromThe Planets Op. 32 arranged by Thomas Trotter.

Alexander Ffinch has established himself as a renowned organist with performances spanning the UK, Europe, USA, and Asia. Notable for his role as the College Organist at Cheltenham College since 2004, Alexander oversees daily organ performances in the College Chapel and accompanies choirs while maintaining an active schedule as a recitalist, featuring prominently in events like the Cheltenham International Music Festival and BBC Radio 3 broadcasts. His 2019 album, "Transformations" (DDA 25193), received critical acclaim.

Experience the full scope of Beethoven's musical evolution with this comprehensive collection of his 35 piano sonatas, meticulously organized in chronological order to offer a panoramic view of his artistic journey, tracing Beethoven's transformative progression as a composer.

While opus numbers traditionally guide the dating of Beethoven's works, exceptions abound, notably in the case of the Opus 49 Sonatas. This collection challenges the conventional exclusion of the early "Kurfurst" Sonatas, shedding light on Beethoven's formative years as a composer. Musicologist Professor Barry Cooper's advocacy for their inclusion, based on their publication by Beethoven himself and their intrinsic merit, finds resonance in this comprehensive set.

Pianist Tamami Honma brings these sonatas to life with precision, adhering closely to Cooper's editorial corrections in the ABRSM edition. Cooper's meticulous research, comparing original manuscripts, early editions, and historical sources, ensures an authentic interpretation of Beethoven's intentions, from note values to nuanced articulation. This collection is not merely a recording; it is a vibrant testament to Beethoven's brilliance, offering a fresh perspective on his extraordinary works.

Divine Art presents the enchanting compositions of Australian maestro John Carmichael in this extraordinary collection. Carmichael's distinctive neo-Romantic style, an exquisite fusion of originality with echoes of Rachmaninov, offers a lush musical journey that will resonate with a broad audience, particularly those less inclined towards avant-garde new music.

This album boasts a diverse selection of duos, solos, and a Piano Concerto characterised by exuberant pianism harmoniously paired with a string orchestra, culminating in a Caribbean-flavoured final movement. Carmichael's compositions extend to a Piano Trio, Towards the Light, spotlighting the viola in works designed to elevate this often-overlooked instrument. The collection is further enriched by a Divertimento for flute, oboe, clarinet, and piano, giving the listener a varied repertoire where melodic elements take centre stage. Collaborating with Carmichael are some of highly talented artists, including acclaimed pianist Antony Gray, whose recent Divine Art recordings of Saint-Saëns piano music have earned glowing praise, making them the label's top sellers of 2022. Join us in this celebration of the potential in new orchestral and chamber music, where Carmichael's melodic brilliance and the artistry of our distinguished performers converge to create a truly remarkable album.

John Carmichael was born 1930 in Melbourne, Australia. He studied piano and composition at the University Conservatorium there, followed by two years piano studies with Marcel Ciampi at the Conservatoire National in Paris. Further composition studies followed with Arthur Benjamin and Anthony Milner in London while Carmichael joined the first group of musicians working for the newly established Council for Music Therapy, for whom he introduced music therapy programs at Stoke Mandeville Hospital and Netherden Mental Hospital, Surrey. In 1960 he became musical director of the Spanish Dance group Eduardo Y Navarra touring extensively with them both abroad and in Britain; foreign languages are one of his passions – the latest challenge being Chinese.

Conductor Shea Lolin and composer/producer Christopher Hussey have returned to Prague to record with the Czech Philharmonic Wind Ensemble, carefully curating an album of premiere recordings spotlighting the woodwind orchestra, capturing its kaleidoscopic colours and symphonic potential in order to deepen and broaden appreciation of the medium’s power. A large chamber ensemble of flutes, oboes, clarinets, bassoons and saxophones in various sizes, the woodwind orchestra has a highly adaptable and magical tonal palette—it can be, in turn, boldly vibrant and delicately beautiful, thrillingly powerful and hauntingly tender, earnestly solemn and joyously comical.

The recorded repertoire reflects a spectrum of musical styles that exist in 21st-century concert music, ranging from the familiar and instantly singable to the more avant-garde, but always possessing an accessible and inviting musical narrative. Chromosphere is a landmark album, comprising exciting new and re-imagined pieces by leading composers in the genre and demonstrating the unique soundworld of the woodwind orchestra. Shea Lolin is a dynamic and versatile freelance musician living in London. His principal studies were in clarinet performance, composition and conducting at the Colchester Institute, and he has since developed an inimitable portfolio career as a conductor, performer and teacher.

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Baritone Trevor Alexander and pianist Peter Crockford present an album celebrating English Song – art-songs by composers well and not-so-well known, and some of the best examples of what is often called the Parlour Ballad, so beloved of audiences in the early years of the 20th century. Dreams, Desires, Desolation was created out of our love for English Song. The album comprises a real mixture of very familiar songs, along with some relatively unknown ones, and a few which were very popular in their day but have fallen out of fashion. There are also three world premiere recordings. We believe, despite the mixture of styles, each song brings something valid to our concept.

Since graduating from Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Trevor Alexander has worked for numerous companies including Royal Opera, English National Opera, D’Oyly Carte and The Royal Shakespeare Company. He has sung many of the standard baritone operatic roles as well as appearing in musicals and cabaret. He has sung in opera productions and concerts all over the Middle and Far East, and his repertoire is extensive and varied. Peter Crockford studied at the Birmingham School of Music and The Royal Northern College of Music. In his early career he was an accompanist and repetiteur for various opera companies including Glyndebourne. He has travelled the world widely as accompanist and Musical Director/Conductor. He conducted the European Tour of West Side Story and was Assistant to the Musical Director at the Stadt Theater, Freiburg. He continues to pursue a career of coaching and playing in concert.

This ground-breaking album is the first of its kind – devoted entirely to new music written for the woodwind orchestra. It features outstanding performances by the principal woodwind players of the Czech Philharmonic, conducted by Shea Lolin, and includes four world premiere recordings. The recording was made to both promote British composers and to give focus to the woodwind orchestra. This program showcases the woodwind orchestra in all its voices: Overture for Woodwinds is bright and lyrical, while Pantomime is joyously comical with moments of heartrending nostalgia. A notable shift in the language comes with Dreamtide, which is a beautiful expression of the subconscious, with delicate and tender lines. Battle Symphony is a pictorial suite containing elements of pastiche in ten highly original sections. The album concludes with Twisted Skyscape, a vibrant and excitingly powerful piece. Conductor Shea Lolin is a dynamic and versatile freelance musician living in London. His principal studies were in clarinet performance, composition and conducting at the Colchester Institute, and he has since developed an inimitable portfolio career as a conductor, performer and teacher. A second album of world premieres for woodwind orchestra, Chromosphere, will be released by Divine Art early 2024.

In these two premiere recordings Kingdoms and Metropolis, the stories will be familiar to many with their universal subjects, including the need for wisdom within the halls of power; transcendent love; an immigrant’s homesickness; the search for inner peace; all flow through the album evoking the spirit of our day and age. Despite our current turmoil, the overall tone of the album is a hopeful one, making it a welcome balm during our turbulent times. Nigerian-American lyricist Chinwe D. John strongly feels that, although we live in a challenging world, hope is essential and will prevail. It was John who went in search of composers who would share her vision and passion for creating works which could be appreciated and enjoyed, works which would connect an audience and perhaps even take on a cultural significance. It is the combined vision of John’s settings and the subsequent compositions by Bernard Hughes and Stuart MacRae which is so effectively brought to life in this recording by the musicians. Tenor Nick Pritchard, soprano Isabelle Haile and pianist Christopher Glynn give wonderful, intimate performances which further connect the listener to the stories presented in Chinwe D. John’s lyrics. The production of Songs for Our Times is a testament to collaboration and cooperation, practically reflecting the intent of the artists’ work.