Victoria String Quartet – Diary of the Bee (2024) [FLAC 24bit/96kHz]

Victoria String Quartet – Diary of the Bee (2024)
FLAC (tracks) 24 bit/96 kHz | Time – 01:27:33 minutes | 1,41 GB | Genre: Classical
Studio Masters, Official Digital Download | Digital Booklet, Front Cover | © Divine Art

Composer Helen Leach, known for her enchanting compositions that evoke rich landscapes and deep emotions, releases her album titled “Diary of the Bee.” This new collection features a series of rich, tonally traditional compositions. With all tracks being world premiere recordings, the album showcases Leach’s remarkable ability to blend lyrical melodies with profound storytelling.“Diary of the Bee” marks a significant addition to the classical repertoire, offering listeners an absorbing journey through Leach’s musical landscapes. Each piece on the album unveils a unique narrative, beautifully performed by leading instrumental soloists alongside the esteemed Victoria String Quartet. Reflecting on the inspiration behind her compositions, Leach shares, “Every piece in this album holds a special place in my heart, drawing from personal experiences and the beauty of nature that surrounds me.” Indeed, each composition in “Diary of the Bee” tells a story, from the evocative tribute to Prince Philip in “An Edinburgh Farewell” to the introspective musings captured in “Letters from the Owl House.”

Among the highlights of the album is “Cup of Kindness,” a poignant ode to the universal warmth and blessings symbolised by Robert Burns’ iconic line, “we’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet.” With its tender melodies and thoughtful arrangements, the piece resonates with a sense of harmony and peace.

Another standout track, “Tenera Caritate,” showcases Leach’s mastery in crafting expressive rhapsodies, as she explores themes of love, hope, and healing through the emotive interplay of clarinet and string quartet.

Listeners will also be enchanted by “Where Hope Was Sown,” a commissioned piece dedicated to Mr. Oliver Burge, of Marchmont Farms, which beautifully captures the essence of the Lapwing bird and its pastoral habitat through delicate musical motifs.

From the haunting melodies of “The Black Rood of Scotland” to the elegant conversations of “A Song Without Words,” “Diary of the Bee” offers a tapestry of sound that is instantly appealing.

Recorded at the historic Marchmont House in Scotland, where Leach is Composer-in-Residence, “Diary of the Bee” not only captures the essence of Leach’s compositions but also the timeless beauty of its surroundings. With its richly layered compositions and superb performances, “Diary of the Bee” stands as a testament to Helen Leach’s extraordinary talent and her ability to weave intricate musical narratives.

Tracklist:

1-1. Simon Leach – Prelude for a Royal Swan (Version for Violin & Piano) (03:37)
1-2. John Bradbury – Tenera Caritate (10:05)
1-3. Richard Simpson – Where Hope Was Sown: I. The Day of the Peewits’ Return (02:50)
1-4. Richard Simpson – Where Hope Was Sown: II. Arabesque at the Pond (02:42)
1-5. Richard Simpson – Where Hope Was Sown: III. Rising Kings (02:50)
1-6. Richard Simpson – Where Hope Was Sown: IV. Wings of the Rainbow (02:40)
1-7. Richard Simpson – Where Hope Was Sown: V. Of Crown and Fields (02:26)
1-8. Richard Simpson – Where Hope Was Sown: VI. Gentle Earth (03:10)
1-9. Simon Leach – A Melrose Rhapsody (Version for Violin & Piano) (04:32)
1-10. John Bradbury – Diary of the Bee: I. Bluebell (04:09)
1-11. John Bradbury – Diary of the Bee: II. Thistle (03:31)
1-12. John Bradbury – Diary of the Bee: III. Forget-Me-Not (03:35)
1-13. John Bradbury – Diary of the Bee: III. Wild Rose (03:34)
1-14. John Bradbury – Diary of the Bee: V. Buttercup (04:07)
1-15. Jennifer Langridge – Letters from the Owl House: I. Syzygy (02:37)
1-16. Jennifer Langridge – Letters from the Owl House: II. Treasures of Darkness (02:36)
1-17. Jennifer Langridge – Letters from the Owl House: III. Touch of Heaven (02:42)
1-18. Jennifer Langridge – Letters from the Owl House: IV. Broken Oak (04:08)
1-19. Jennifer Langridge – Letters from the Owl House: V. Face of Love (02:49)
1-20. Jennifer Langridge – Letters from the Owl House: VI. Star Dance (03:09)
1-21. Simon Leach – An Edinburgh Farewell (Version for Violin & Piano) (02:48)
1-22. Richard Simpson – The Black Rood of Scotland (Version for Oboe & String Quartet) (04:08)
1-23. Simon Leach – Song Without Words (04:10)
1-24. Richard Simpson – Cup of Kindness (04:26)

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