Regina Caeli: SATB vocal score (New Horizons)

ISBN 10: 0193439220 ISBN 13: 9780193439221

Publisher: OUP Oxford, 2005

for SATB unaccompanied
This hymn to the 'Queen of the Heavens' is a glorious work, replete with dramatic changes of mood and texture. The majestic chords of the opening bars quickly give way to a spirited section in which unison altos and basses mimic the insistent flourishes of the sopranos and tenors. This pattern of contrasts is repeated throughout the piece before the final jubilant chords fade away to a modest triple piano. This is an approachable and rewarding motet, appropriate for the Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary in addition to Eastertide.
Regina caeli has been recorded by the renowned American choir, the Phoenix Chorale, and released on a Grammy award-winning CD by Chandos (Spotless Rose CHSA 5066)

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Review:

Its alternating Alleluia and verses give the whole a secure structure, and there is harmonic sensitivity in the way contrasting variants of both homophonic and polyphonic sections are built. Throughout the piece is that linear logic so much needed to make any music - but especially choral music - satisfying to perform. (Patric Standford, Choir & Organ Jan 06)

Cecilia McDowall's Regina Caeli is infectiously singable. The harmonic language is always approachable and the composer has judged delightfully the contrast between the majestic Alleluias and the main text of this Easter hymn, which dances along spiritedly. Of moderate difficulty, this should be within the capabilities of experienced school and parish church choirs. (Christopher Field, Music Teacher December 05)

About the Author:

Born in 1951, Cecilia McDowall has been described by the International Record Review as having a 'communicative gift that is very rare in modern music. An award-winning composer, McDowall is often inspired by extra-musical influences, and her choral writing combines rhythmic vitality with expressive lyricism. Her music has been commissioned, performed, and recorded by leading choirs - among them the BBC Singers, The Sixteen, and Oxford and Cambridge choirs - and is regularly programmed at prestigious festivals in Britain and abroad. In 2017 McDowall was selected for an Honorary Fellow award by the Royal School of Church Music.

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