This recording brings together virtuoso choral works by four of Britain's most influential mid twentieth-century composers: Kenneth Leighton (1929 88); William Walton (1902 83); Herbert Howells (1892 1983); and Gerald Finzi (1901 56).

Centrepiece of the programme is Leighton's extended cycle for Lent and Holy Week Crucifixus pro nobis,together with Finzi's large-scale anthem Lo, the full, final sacrifice and Howells's poignant motet on the death of President Kennedy Take him, earth, for cherishing. There are also rare recordings of shorter works by these three composers together with three of Walton's most popular a cappella choral works.

Music has played an important role at Christ's since the earliest days of its 500-year history. The Chapel Choir was originally made up solely of male voices, the upper parts being sung by boy trebles. Since 1979 the sopranos and altos have been predominantly Christ's students.

Today's Choir is widely recognized as one of Cambridge's finest mixed voice ensembles. In addition to singing two services a week in the College Chapel the Choir regularly gives concerts around the UK (including a number each year with a professional orchestra in St Martin-in-the-Fields and St John's, Smith Square). Each year an extended tour is undertaken to Australia, New Zealand or North America. The choir has made a number of recordings with Regent Records.