David Bednall: Ave Regina caelorum

A partner antiphon to Bednall’s Alma Redemptoris Mater, Ave Regina caelorum is a fast and joyful setting. In turn, this pair of antiphons compliments Herbert Howells’s setting of the other two Marian antiphons (Salve Regina and Regina Caeli), making for compelling programming. The central section employs a soprano solo, and the divisi in each of the vocal parts creates a rich and sumptuous texture.