Robert Evett (1922-1975) was a highly esteemed American composer who was a major contributor to the cultural life of Washington, DC. A student of Roy Harris and Vincent Persichetti, Evett was nominated for Pulitzer prizes not only in music but also for his literary contributions: he was critic and editor for the New Republic, Atlantic Monthly and Washington Star. Evett composed in many genres, including orchestral and chamber music. His devout and personal choral pieces for the Catholic liturgy are undiscovered gems that deserve a wide hearing, not just on Sundays. The works on this disc, some a cappella, some with organ accompaniment, span music for Christmas and Lent, as well as the daily offices of Prime, Vespers and Compline. Masterfully sung by the 19 voices of Musikanten, the oldest choral chamber ensemble in the nation's capital, the music is given sublime interpretations in the warm environment of the Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church, Bethesda, MD. Conductor and founder of the group, Kerry Krebill, directs the expressive and precise performances that led Musikanten's previous CD to be nominated Choral CD of the Year by Chorus! Magazine. |