Sir Ernest MacMillan - Centenary Celebration

Review by Katongole Johnny

Centenary Celebration by Sir Ernest MacMillan is a beautiful tribute to one of Canada's most celebrated composers and conductors. The album features a collection of MacMillan's most iconic works, including his choral masterpiece "Two Sketches on French Canadian Airs" and the stirring "Overture to a Fairy Tale."

The album is a testament to MacMillan's versatility and creativity as a composer, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend traditional European classical music with the rich cultural heritage of Canada. His works are marked by their intricate harmonies, soaring melodies, and bold use of orchestration, all of which are masterfully executed by the performers on this album.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Three French Canadian Folk Songs," which features hauntingly beautiful arrangements of traditional Québécois tunes. The choral performances on this track and throughout the album are particularly noteworthy, with the voices blending together seamlessly to create a lush, soaring sound.

Summary by Katongole Johnny

Centenary Celebration is a must-listen for anyone interested in Canadian classical music, or for fans of orchestral works in general. It's a fitting tribute to a true musical legend, and a testament to the enduring power of MacMillan's music.