English Symphony Orchestra - Sawyers: Mayflower on the Sea of Time (Live) (2023) Hi-Res

"“The 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower was in 2020. My task as a composer was to write a substantial choral/orchestral work to celebrate this event and the challenges that the Pilgrims faced in the New World. My librettist wrote an imaginative piece that incorporated both a narrative and a reflection on the wider implications the story contained. Human attributes and frailties, moral, religious and political questions are touched upon. The resulting Oratorio, Mayflower on the Sea of Time, is in 4 parts. The soprano and baritone soloists take on multiple roles as both narrators and different characters from the story.” Philip Sawyers This recording captures the debut performance of the English Symphony Chorus. Assembled for this project, the group brings together some of the finest professional singers from across the UK. The ensemble members appear as part of elite groups such as The Sixteen, performers on the operatic stage, working as layclerks at Cathedrals across the UK, as well as working with leading orchestras and new music ensembles."

April Frederick, soprano
Thomas Humphreys, baritone
English Symphony Orchestra & Chorus
Kenneth Woods, conductor