Here is the second disc of Stanford songs promised when the first was issued in February (CDA67123). This one contains some of Stanford's best-known songs including The Fairy Lough and the complete 'Songs of the Sea' to words by Sir Henry Newbolt (Drake's Drum, The Old Superb etc). It also includes all seven songs of A Fire of Turf - affectionate vignettes of Irish country life (Blackberry Time and The Chapel on the Hill). As with the first disc, this includes many songs of which we can find no evidence of previous recordings. A 'must' for all lovers of English song - even though Stanford was Irish.
'Immediately appealing. Stephen Varcoe is the perfect singer for this repertoire. A treasure of a disc' (Fanfare)
'Maintains in each and every bar the high standards of the previous release' (BBC Music Magazine)
'Beautifully performed with excellent notes, this recording will convince even the sceptical of the true worth of these songs ... a most sensitive performance' (Gramophone)
'This collection, along with its predecessor has changed my life. Without any question, it contains some magnificent songs, settings that would grace any company under the sun ... voice and piano are in true partnership. I can only salute with deepest admiration Stephen Varcoe's sterling baritone, so utterly sympathetic to Stanford's every note, so undemonstratively secure, so responsive to word and musical line' (International Record Review)
Recording details: October 1999; Rosslyn Hill Unitarian Chapel, Hampstead, London, United Kingdom; Produced by Mark Brown; Engineered by Antony Howell; Release date: June 2000;
