Not yet 40, Anthony Pitts, together with John Rutter and Tavener is perhaps one of the most sought after British composers of contemporary choral works. He is already the recipient of several prestigious awards such as the "Prix Italia" and has composed pieces for both local and foreign groups and festivals.
For a period of 13 years he was associated with the BBC and since 2005, he has taught composition at the Royal Academy of Music. The first Hyperion issue dedicated to choral works by this prodigious composer got some truly rave reviews, and this second disc will undoubtedly make its mark.
The principal work on this programme is the "I AM" sayings of Jesus which at 40 minutes makes up almost two thirds of total playing time. The comforting yet perplexing texts allow Pitts free reign to express his vivid word painting and the music is also informed with great restlessness and agitation. The other four works are similar to the main opus but each has its own distinct message to convey.
Tonus Peregrinus are a capable choir, founded by Pitts himself to promote the Christian message and they perform with spellbinding excitement matching spirituality with technical prowess. This is a sumptuously beautiful disc on all counts.
Copyright © 2008, Gerald Fenech