Album: Poulenc, Gloria/Motets – Polyphony/Stephen Layto (Hyperion)

Sunday 30 March 2008 02:00 BST

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

After a friend died in a car accident in 1936, French composer Francis Poulenc, best known for his boulevardier wit and general joie de vivre, turned steadily towards religion – though as his 1959 setting of the 'Gloria' shows, religion with a sense of humour.

Frescoes with angels sticking out their tongues and Benedictine monks playing football inspired this piece, where punchy rhythms mix with melancholia. Conductor Stephen Layton's sentient performance is graced by Susan Gritton's ethereal soprano solos and rounded off with some of Poulenc's more solemn a cappella motets.

Pick of the Album: Gritton rising effortlessly in 'Domine Deus, Agnus Dei'

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

Album: Poulenc, Gloria/Motets – Polyphony/Stephen Layto (Hyperion)

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering