Shared Ground is a set of works by the British composer Alec Roth, featuring several poems and sung texts by the Indian writer Vikram Seth. The title piece of the same name is inspired by Seth’s poetry following a decision to buy and live in the Old Rectory in Bemerton - the former home of the 17th-century poet and priest George Herbert. Other works on the album expand this idea of a shared home or dwelling, with Earthrise - the reflections of Apollo astronauts on viewing the planet from orbit - and Hymn to Gaia.
"After listening to these discs I was struck by the beautiful contours of Alec Roth’s music. It is all finely constructed, with a profound sense of line. Firmly tonal in base, Roth has a strong melodic gift and an ear for texture. No wonder Ex Cathedra like his music and have performed a considerable amount of it...The performances from Ex Cathedra under their conductor Jeffrey Skidmore are well nigh perfect. Alec Roth must be pleased with this highly polished and finished product." Robert Hugill - musicweb-international.com - 12 April 2012
"... An excellent follow-up to Signum’s earlier disc of Roth’s Songs in Time of War. Warmly recommended." *****
Philip Reed - Choir & Organ magazine - March/April 2012
"Alec Roth has collaborated with Ex Cathedra since 2007, and five of his works are immaculately sung here by the choir, including Shared Ground, with optional movements for solo violin included." ****
Terry Blain - BBC Music magazine - February 2012
