VIRGIN QUEEN:
THE SOUNDTRACK
Composer, Martin
Phipps
Conducted by David
White
The first time I viewed the film, I was struck
by the music, particularly the opening theme. I thought the vocals were sung by
a children’s chorus & thought that was kind of interesting, particularly
since royal children—or the lack of them—is such a strong theme in the
story of Henry VIII & his successors. As to the “children’s chorus”—they
turned out to be a group called “Medieval Babes.” That’s right, and they are
superlative. Now that I registered who they are, I’ve noticed they appear on
other CDs as well—and I will be listening to more of their sweet voices in the
future. Suffice to say this women’s chorus (and they are knockouts to
the eye) is a central element in the overall success of the musical score.
There are also other soloists & groups
including Dessislava Stefanova, Katherine Blake, and “The London Bulgarian
Choir.”
This fantastic soundtrack can stand alone as a
wonderful example of Tudor-Renaissance-Contemporary fusion. The music is a
sheer pleasure. For listeners who’ve seen the film, the experience will be that
much more pleasant.
[Unfortunately the manufacturer has
discontinued the CD. Fortunately, it can be obtained from the Cdzone via Amazon
UK for around $32. Act now before the price goes up (and it will) or copies run
out. Click on The Queen for more details.]
Review: JEFarrow