Stunning recording of sacred music released by Selwyn College Chapel Choir

Selwyn College Chapel Choir director Sarah MacDonald, born in Canada, was an Organ Scholar at Robinson College in 1992. Appointed Director of Music in Chapel at Selwyn College in 1999, she is the first woman to hold such a post in a Cambridge college.

The CD has sacred songs by John Milton senior (1562-1647), a successful London scrivener and composer and father of the epic poet John, most famed for Paradise Lost. The CD also has works by Cambridgeshire born composer Martin Peerson (1570s-1651), Almoner and Master of the Choristers at St Paul’s, London.

The two composers must have known each other well having appeared together in various contemporary publications.

The music has been edited by Professor Richard Rastall, a graduate of Christ’s College, who is reworking in stages the complete compositions of both composers in a modern performing edition.

Selwyn College Chapel Choir, founded in the late nineteenth century, has been a mixed choir since 1976, operating with 28 members singing three services per week during term. The choir is highly acclaimed all over the world. It has broadcast services for BBC Radio, performed live on television and recorded for labels such as Priory and Herald.

A Candle to the Glorious Sun has been released under the Regent label.

The CD is available from Regent Records, PO Box 528, Wolverhampton WV3 9YW; tel. 01902 424377, fax 01902 717661.

Retail distribution is by RSK Entertainment, Unit 1, 4 5 Home Farm, Welford, Newbury, Berks RG20 8HR; tel. 01488 608900.

Alternatively, contact the Development & Alumni Relations Office, Selwyn College, Cambridge, CB3 9DQ; tel. 01223 767844.