On June 10, Portsmouth Cathedral Choir launches its latest CD: : A Year at Portsmouth (Regent Records). Boys, girls, and men's voices take us on a musical journey of nearly eighty minutes — a richly layered and thoughtfully crafted release that immerses the listener in the sonic universe of this remarkable cathedral.

What immediately stands out is the striking choice for less well-trodden repertoire. Apart from a few familiar anchors, this CD pointedly avoids the obvious path. This makes the program fresh and thought-provoking, while never losing sight of the foundation of tradition.

These familiar touchstones include, among others, the Praise the Lord by Mozart, performed here by the outstanding Evelyn Cowhig. Her voice has just enough vibrato to give this frequently heard music a new depth — a natural, almost disarming beauty that remains completely in the spirit of Mozart. The same can be said of the Händel aria, performed by treble Daniel Sands, who excels with crystal-clear diction and moving sincerity.Organist Sachin Gunga also deserves special mention. His accompaniment is not only solid but distinctly colorful. He knows how to make the instrument speak in all its shades, with the majestic organ soloFanfare de Maris

by Philip Moore as its crowning moment, in which the full richness of the cathedral organ comes into its own. Among the more classical choral works, Coelos ascendit hodie

by Stanford stands out. For me, the recording by Salisbury Cathedral Choir under Richard Seal (Anthems for America) serves as the reference point; it is therefore no small achievement that Portsmouth can hold its own here alongside that interpretation. The performance is clear, precise, and convincingly structured. Yet the greatest strength of this CD may well lie in the lesser-known repertoire. Works that will be new to many prove to be small discoveries, one after another. The intimate Magnificat

Yet perhaps the greatest strength of this album lies in its lesser-known repertoire. Works that will be new to many prove to be small discoveries, one after another. The intimate quality shines through. Magnificat from Brian Moles, the expressive music of Undine Smith Moore and the accessibility of Howard Goodall — indeed, famous for the iconic Mr. Bean-theme — demonstrate the breadth of the program. In the same vein fits John Rutter's The Lord is my light and my salvation, with a particularly beautiful contribution from tenor Adrian Green and a subtle yet striking performance by clarinetist Alex Wallace.

One work deserves a special mention: The gateway of heaven by Paul Trepte. This former conductor of Ely Cathedral, with whom David Price worked closely at the beginning of his career, writes here an impressive a cappella motet that opens every register of English choral art. Baritone Alex Wallace engages in an intense dialogue with the choir, and the music almost visually evokes the ascending and descending of angels. The finale, entrusted to the sopranos, is as unexpected as it is haunting.

Striking is how naturally both choirs — boys and girls — move through the program. Their sound is homogeneous and balanced, and it is abundantly clear that they feel completely at home in this space. The recording makes optimal use of the acoustics of the relatively intimate cathedral, not for nothing called the 'Cathedral of the Sea', without sacrificing clarity.

This CD is also a testament to the impressive work of conductor David Price. Over the years, he has built up a solid and vibrant choral practice in Portsmouth, not supported by the traditional structures of English choir schools, but sustained by thoughtful programming, commitment, and intelligent opening up of church music to a broad audience. Unafraid of dogma, one language speaks here above all: that of music. Who sings twice prays — whoever sings prays twice — receives in Portsmouth a particularly concrete realization.

The importance of this work extends beyond the musical alone. Over the years, hundreds of children here have had the opportunity to experience music from within. Many remained devoted to it. From a continental perspective, one can only look with admiration at what is still being achieved in the United Kingdom, despite the challenges. Portsmouth is an inspiring example of this.

It all comes together beautifully in the closing work, dedicated to the patroness of music, Saint Cecilia. This is more than just a contemporary composition: it embodies the work of the cathedral as a whole. On her feast day, children from schools and parishes are invited to sing along — an experience that undoubtedly leaves a lasting impression. This CD has precisely that effect: the music and singing takes hold of you and doesn't let go afterwards.

: A Year at Portsmouth is a particularly successful recording that convinces both artistically and substantively. For lovers of choral music, this is certainly a valuable addition to the CD collection — and for those who have experienced the choir live, a warm and familiar reminder.

Reserve your copy at Regent Records (REGCD592) or stream it soon on various platforms.

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