A local musician, Stephen Webb, has just released his latest (2019) album “On Palestrina’s Birthday”. Moving to Devon just over three years ago, Stephen combines writing and performing jazz compositions with ancient choral music and playing church organ. However, it is only recently he has found a way of combining these two seemingly disparate genres into a single musical entity. “In reviewing old choral works, (the album features works by Palestrina, Byrd, Tallis and De Prez). "I begin by searching for an underlying chord sequence which would provide an inspirational framework on which to improvise. I then review the structure of the piece and work up an ensemble arrangement – in this case, piano trio and chamber orchestra – which, provides new insights into these under-rated choral works”. Other jazz musicians have successfully attempted to combine jazz and choral music, notably Jacques Loussier (Bach) and Jan Gabarek with the Hilliard ensemble; but Stephen is less faithful in following the original structure of the pieces – “I often start in the middle, jump off the end and then climb back on at the beginning!” The album was performed on its release at St Peter’s Church in North Tawton and readers can join in Palestrina’s birthday celebrations on 3rd February, by listening to the album for free on You Tube (Google On Palestrina’s Birthday), stream or download the album from Napster, Deezer, iTunes or Apple Music etc.
Local Magazine Article: Extract