A Tree is a Song presents first recordings of a collection of recent secular choral works by Cecilia McDowall, performed by The Rodolfus Choir under Ralph Allwood and Elinor Cooper. Written between 2012 and 2024, the programme sets texts by poets including Heather Lane, Seán Street, Kate Wakeling, Sheila Bryer, Virginia Woolf, and Shakespeare. Several works feature obbligato cello played by Leo Popplewell. The pieces respond to a wide range of subjects, from nature and community to remembrance and the COVID-19 pandemic. Recorded in London in 2024, the album documents McDowall’s distinctive approach to contemporary vocal writing.
A TREE IS A SONG: Secular choral works (Cecilia McDowall)
£12.00
The Rodolfus Choir
Ralph Allwood – Conductor
Elinor Cooper – Conductor
Release Date: 10th April 2026
Catalogue Number: SIGCD988
Barcode: 635212098820
[1] A Tree is a Song
[2] On the Air (Dear Vaccine)
[3] The Year of the Horse
[4] The Three Birds
[5] Night Flight: I. New Moon
[6] Night Flight: II. Crow, landing
[7] Night Flight: III. Before Dawn
[8] Hear hum the bees
[9] Such Splendor
[10] One day walking
[11] When time is broke: I. Give me some music
[12] When time is broke: II. Mark how one string
[13] When time is broke: III. How sour sweet music is