This is the record of John
Gibbons’s beautiful anthem, setting verses from St John’s Gospel, is a gentle narrative for alto solo and chorus and shows the composer’s gift for dramatic writing.
Recommended recording: Robin Blaze (countertenor), Winchester Cathedral Choir/David Hill Helios CDH55228
O Clap your hands
Written to celebrate his doctorate from Oxford in 1622, this masterful, exciting anthem written for eight parts contains wonderful imitative writing, sprightly cross-rhythms and superb antiphony.
Recommended recording: Choir of King’s College, Cambridge/Stephen Cleobury EMI Classics 394 4302
Fantasy of foure parts
Among his greatest works for the keyboard, Gibbons’s Fantasy is widein scope, and ebbs and flows in an almost Romantic fashion. Surprising, pleasing music.
Recommended recording: Christopher Hogwood Explore Records EXP0006
In nomines
Scored for four or five viols, these chamber works use, like the Fantasy above, intricate, sophisticated counterpoint, but they make for utterly delightful and hypnotic listening.
Recommended recording: Phantasm Avie AV0032
The Short Service
A different side to Gibbons. This attractively straightforward setting of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis is highly melodic, prayerful and atmospheric.
Recommended recording: Oxford Camerata/Jeremy Summerly Naxos 8.553130
