Connecticut Master Chorale

Karl Jenkins' new Stabat Mater premiered in March 2008 at Liverpool Cathedral. The 2000 people in attendance at the sold-out concert were completely enthralled and a lengthy standing ovation followed the final movement.

Stabat Mater is a 13th century Latin poetic meditation on Mary at the cross of Jesus which has been set to music by many prominent composers including Haydn, Dvorak and Rossini.In the hands of Karl Jenkins, it has been given a fresh modern interpretation in the culturally diverse and universally accessible style that characterizes his work.

Jenkins has expanded the Stabat Mater with six new movements, including a choral version of the Ave Verum which he originally composed for Bryn Terfel, renowned Welsh bass-baritone opera and concert singer. In addition to English and Latin, modern and ancient texts sung in Aramaic and Greek impart the feeling of the Holy Land as it was at the time of Jesus. Source material derived from ancient Babylon and medieval Persia and a new piece written in early Arabic evoke a distinct Middle Eastern influence which is reflected in portions of the music as well. With this poignant, emotional and compelling setting, Jenkins has created an intense work of dramatic beauty and inspiration that is destined to become a classic in the world of choral music.

Four American Folk Hymns draw on the rich traditions of New England and the South as arranged by Mack Wilberg, the Music Director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and their primary arranger in recent years. All hymns from the 1800s, Saints Bound for Heaven, Death Shall Not Destroy My Comfort, We'll Shout and Give Him Glory and Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing are given lively arrangements that are inspirational in their energy and grandeur.