Advent Live Volume 3, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge
1. Lo! The desert-depths are stirr’d
2. Advent Calendar
3. Telling
4. There is no rose
5. Herr Christ, der ein’ge Gottes-Sohn, BWV 601
6. Pan fo’r stormydd garwa’n curo
7. Hymn – O come, O come, Emmanuel!
8. Nowel, nowel. Owt of your slepe
9. Drop down, ye heavens, from above
10. Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland
11. There is no rose
12. Hymn – Come, thou long-expected Jesus
13. O virgo virginum
14. One star, at last
15. Antiphons – O Dayspring; O King of the Nations
16. Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme
17. Adam lay ybounden
18. Gottes Sohn ist kommen
19. Hymn – On Jordan’s bank the Baptist’s cry
20. Antiphon – O Emmanuel
21. Adam lay ybounden
22. A Gallery Carol
The Apple Tree: Christmas with Seraphic Fire
Written by Elizabeth Poston, English composer and purported World War II spy for the Allies, "Jesus Christ the Apple Tree" takes Federal-era American text and clothes it in music so simple that it could easily be an 18th-century colonial hymn.
With its elegant treble-voice verse and luxurious ending canon, "Jesus Christ the Apple Tree" has become an indispensable part of Christmastide for thousands of our friends in our hometown of Miami, FL, and beyond.
With Poston’s masterpiece as our polestar, this new holiday recording by Seraphic Fire celebrates the simple and the authentic.
From Praetorious’ double choir setting of "In dulci jubilo" and Gottfried Wolter’s spine-tingling "Maria durch ein Dornwald ging," to familiar American carols arranged by composer contemporaries of Seraphic Fire (including Susan LaBarr, Edwin Fissinger, Timothy Takach, and Seraphic Fire’s founder Patrick Dupre Quigley), this new recording hopes to introduce new settings of old melodies that will hopefully become instant classics in your Christmas soundscape.
Each Seraphic Fire Christmas program is special, and we hope that The Apple Tree: Christmas with Seraphic Fire will continue our tradition of bringing peaceful, tuneful contemplation to our beloved audiences, near and far. – James K. Bass
1. I saw three ships - Edwin Fissingger (1920-1990)
2. Adamm Lay Ybounden - John Ireland (1879-1962)
3. Adam Lay Ybounden - Matthew Martin (b. 1976)
4. Maria durch ein Dornwald ging - Gottfried Wolters s(1910-1989), arr. James K. Bass
5. 'Twas in the Moon of Wintertime - Huron Carol, Arr. Timothy C. Takach (b. 1978)
6. The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came - Basque Carol, arr. Susan LaBarr (b. 1981)
7. All Beautiful the March of Days - James Kallembach (b. 1976)
8. In dulci jubilo - Michael Praetorious (1571-1621)
9. Jesus, Jesus, rest your head - Appalachian Carol, arr. Patrick Dupre Quigley
10. I Wonder as I Wander - John Jacob Niles (1892-1980), arr. Quigley
11. Jesus en Pesebre - William J. Kirkpatrick (1838-1921), arr. Quigley
12. Jesus Christ the Apple Tree - Elizabeth Poston (1905-1989)
13. Away in a manger - Ola Gjielo (b. 1978)
14. Mary had a baby - William L. Dawson (1899-1990)
15. Ain'-a that Good News! - Dawson
Label: Seraphic Fire Media
Most of the works are accompanied by Rejouissance - a period instrument ensemble founded by Simon Jones - the distinguished leader of many period instrument groups in the UK. There are two large-scale English anthems for Advent from Henry Purcell - the first Rejoice in the Lord always gained the nickname 'The Bell Anthem' on account of the repeated bass figure in the introduction resembles the pealing of bells. The second O sing unto the Lord is an impressive work of over twelve minutes duration.
Both of these anthems are receiving a rare recording with the accompaniment of an instrumental ensemble, rather than as usually heard with organ - and even rarer with period instruments.
- 1. Es ist ein Ros entsprungen – Michael Praetorius
- 2. Rejoice in the Lord alway – Henry Purcell
- 3. Magnificat quinti toni – Hieronymus Praetorius
- 4. O sing unto the Lord – Henry Purcell
- 5. Quem pastores – Michael Praetorius
- 6. Messe de minuit – Marc-Antoine Charpentier
a.
Kyrie
b.
Gloria
c.
Credo
d.
Offertoire
e.
Sanctus and Benedictus
f.
Agnus Dei
Benjamin Britten's Ceremony of Carols, Capa Regalis Boy Choir. Nick Halley, Director with Lor Gemmell, Harp.
This is our 2019 live performance recording of Benjamin Britten’s iconic A Ceremony of Carols, featuring Capella Regalis Boys Choir directed by Nick Halley, with harpist Lori Gemmell. Including bespoke liner notes by concert host and storyteller Tom Allen, this album will make a beautiful addition to your Christmas music collection!
Bob Chilcott: Christmas Oratorio
Hailed as ‘a palpable success … and utterly new’ at its premiere performance, Bob Chilcott’s Christmas Oratorio brings the magic, wonder and joy of a centuries-old story to modern-day life.
This first recording reassembles the glittering cast of soloists from the premiere: Nick Pritchard’s Evangelist, intimately accompanied by harp and flute, is joined by mezzo-soprano Dame Sarah Connolly and bass Neal Davies.
Benjamin Nicholas’s award-winning Choir of Merton College, Oxford enrich the Christmas story with carols that are sure to become instant favourites. The composer is delighted with the recording, describing it as ‘elegant, well-paced and poised … The choir is fabulous – confident and sure’.
1. Jesus Christ the Apple Tree
2. - 18. Christmas Oratorio
19. The Pear Tree Carol
20. Welcome, all wonders in one sight!
https://www.delphianrecords.com/products/bob-chilcott-christmas-oratorio
Carols from King's College, Cambridge
Choir of King's College, Cambridge, Stephen Cleobury & Daniel Hyde
Digital Album
https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0CNRVHG58?tag=linkfiregen&ie=UTF8&linkCode=as2&ascsubtag=cc3cb93265c318ff9c02e08a46c9fa47&ref=dmm_acq_soc_us_u_lfire_lw_x_cc3cb93265c318ff9c02e08a46c9fa47
BBC Singers Release "Carols Revisited" on Warner
Description is that of the label.
In 2024 the BBC Singers will celebrate its centenary year, and since its founding almost 100 years ago, the choir has held a unique place at the heart of the UK’s choral scene through continued collaborations across the years with many of the world’s leading composers, conductors and soloists.
After finishing a busy 2023 BBC Proms season, which saw the group perform at both the First and Last Nights, as well as concerts with Sir Simon Rattle and Jon Hopkins, they began the recording sessions at Maida Vale Studios which became Carols Revisited – five much-loved Christmas carols and an extraordinary version of the iconic Band Aid single ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas’, in beautiful new choral settings.
In the case of the carols, the Singers set out to re-ground the songs in the innate spirituality of choral plainsong - from whose roots they had originally developed - whilst simultaneously, via new arrangements, bringing them forward into a modern sound-world. To that end each piece features delicate solo piano accompaniment, and the overall feeling is of listening to music at once both powerfully old and sparklingly new.
Amidst these changes, the songs themselves never lose any sense of identity but retain their deep familiarity – particularly in the case of ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas’, which, when lifted from its usual context and reimagined for (almost) solo voices, takes on a truly goose-bump inducing beauty, without ever losing its own ineffable strength of character.
- "In the Bleak Midwinter" - Holst, arr. James Morgan and Juliette Pochi
- "Once in Royal David's City" - Composer: Henry Gauntlett, Arrangers: James Morgan and Juliette Pochin
- "I saw three ships" - Composer: Henry Gauntlett, Arrangers: James Morgan and Juliette Pochin
- "Do they know it's Christmas" - Composer: Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, Arranger: James Morgan and Juliette Pochin
- "Good King Wenceslas" - Arrangers: James Morgan and Juliette Pochin
- "Silent Night" - Arrangers: James Morgan and Juliette Pochin
A Byzantine Emperor at King Henry’s Court
Experience musical worlds colliding against the backdrop of international politics and war. Go back in time to 1400, when Byzantine Emperor Manuel II Palaiologos, seeking foreign aid for besieged Constantinople, spent Christmas in the court of English King Henry IV.
Under the direction of Alexander Lingas, the same men and women of Cappella Romana who brought you the Lost Voices of Hagia Sophia bestseller (44 weeks on Billboard) bring to life medieval Byzantine and Sarum chant and royal ceremonial performed by two very different historic choirs, one singing in Greek and the other in Latin, as they celebrated the feast of Christmas at London’s Eltham Palace.
A Byzantine Emperor at King Henry’s Court is released on a Hybrid SACD in 2.0 stereo and 5.0 surround sound (DSM192K/24bit), recorded in DSD and Dolby® Atmos Spatial Audio and downloadable to audio servers and devices. SACD includes a 36-page booklet with extensive essay and bibliography, manuscript facsimile and complete biographies of all singers. Original texts in Latin and polytonic Greek with English.
From the Services of Christmas Eve
Acclamations Sung at the Prókypsis of the Emperor
MS Sinai gr. 1234, 179v–180r
Kalophonic Polychrónion by Xenos Korones
MS Sinai gr. 1234, 180r–180v
Grom the Services of Christmas Day
Motet: Ovet mundus letabundus
Pentekostaria (Tropes of Psalm 50) for Christmas Matins
MSS Athens NLG 2401, f. 131r/v; Sinai gr. 1234, f. 181r; Sinai gr. 1251, f. 114v; and Sinai gr. 1293, f. 162r/v.
Sarum Responsory from the Second Nocturn of Matins: O magnum mysterium
From the First Kanon of Christmas Matins by Kosmas of Jerusalem (8th c.): Ode 9 with Megalynaria
MS Sinai gr. 1256 (Heirmós)
Kalophonic Megalynarion by St. John Koukouzeles and Katavasia of Ode 9
MSS Sinai gr. 1234, ff. 185v–186v (Megalynarion); and Trinity College, Cambridge O.2.61, f. 11r
Prosa from the Sarum Processionale: Te laudant alme Rex
Entrance Antiphon: Hodie Christus natus est
Prologue of the Kontakion for the Nativity of Christ by St. Romanos the Melodist (6th c.)
MSS Mt. Athos
Kostamonitou 86, ff. 29v–30r and Dionysiou 570, f.129r
Kyrie for Principal Double Feasts: Deus Creator omnium
Gloria in excelsis
Communion Verse for Christmas by Agathon Korones
MSS Athens NLG 2406, 450r (intonation); and Athens NLG 899, f. 134 (Communion)
At Second Vespers on Christmas Evening
Antiphon before the Magnificat: Hodie Christus natus est
Magnificat
Antiphon after the Magnificat: Hodie Christus natus est
https://cappellarecords.com/recording/byzantine-emperor/
Celebration of Christmas: Child of the Light, BYU Combined Choirs
BYU Combined Choirs, BYU Philharmonic, BYU Concert Choir, Rhianna Brunson, Kaytie Kerr, Avery Gunnell, BYU Men's Chorus, Brian Pappal, BYU Women's Chorus, David Kime, BYU Singers, C.J. Madsen, Matt Coleman, Stevie Dugdale (soloist), Samantha Gordon (soloist), Jennfier Youngs (soloist)- trad.: I saw three ships - Sonja Poulter
- trad.: The Holly and the Ivy - Brent Wells
- Kathleen Thomerson: I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light - Brent Wells
- Forrest, D: The Work of Christmas - Sonja Poulter
- Ralph Blane: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - Samantha Gorden
- Anderson, Leroy: Sleigh Ride - Kory Katseanes
- Gus Levene: Ring Those Christmas Bells - Andrew Crane
- Silent Night - Andrew Crane
- Whitacre: Lux aurumque
- Monnoye: Patapan (Guillô, pran ton tamborin) - Brent Wells
- Holst: In the Bleak Mid-winter (Cranham) - Sonja Poulter
- Tchaikovsky: Trepak (from "The Nutcracker Suite") - Kory Katseanes
- Tchaikovsky: Waltz of the Flowers (from "The Nutcracker Suite") - Kory Katseanes
- Philip WJ Stopford: Lully, Lulla, Lullay - Sonja Poulter
Leontovich: Carol of the Bells - Andrew Crane
A Choral Christmas, Voces8 Foundation Choir & Orchestra, Voces8, Barnaby Smith.
- Joy to the World - Arr. Davis
- Away in a Manger - Arr. Davis
- The Sleeping Child
- Come, All Ye Faithful - Arr. Davis
- I. Magnificat Anima Mea (Version for Full Orchestra)
- II. Shall I Rejoice (Version for Full Orchestra)
- III. Et Misericordia (Version for Full Orchestra)
- IV. Deposuit (Version for Full Orchestra)
- V. Gloria Patri (Version for Full Orchestra)
- Come, O Come Emmanuel - Arr. Davis
- Silent Night - Arr. Davis
- In Dulci Jubilo - Arr. Pearsall
- Gabriel's Message - Arr. Clements
- A Christmas Cracker
- Sleight Ride
Christmas at Luther: The Gifts They Gave Emmanuel
This is a Christmas album that has a sense of place, clearly identifying the Chorale as both American and from a border state with Mexico, and something for everyone whether they prefer serious or light festive fare.
There is Hispanic influence in the repertoire choices, which include Catalan folksongs as well as Hispanic Renaissance music. It includes a commission by Cecilia McDowall, written for Christmas 2021, new arrangements of all tracks and also some contemporary Christmas favourites such as "Sleigh Ride" and "Jingle Bells."
This marks the Chorale’s return to recording following an 8-year hiatus, and their first album with Signum Records.
Trad. Catalan arr. Goff Richards / Chris Gabbitas
2. El niño querido
3. Claro Abril resplandeçio
4. Nit de vetlla
5. Resonet in Laudibus – Orlando di Lasso
6. O Magnum Mysterium – Cecilia McDowall
7. O Nata Lux – Cecilia McDowall
8. O Virgo Virginum – Cecilia McDowall
9. Beata Dei genitrix Maria (Part I only) – Francisco Guerrero
10. Gaudete – Trad. arr Brian Kay / Chris Gabbitas
11. A Quiet Chamber – Tom Peterson
12. The Wexford Carol – Trad. Irish arr. Kira Zeeman Rugen
13. In the bleak midwinter – Trad. English arr. Alexander L’Estrange
14. Christ the Apple Tree – Stanford Scriven
15. La peregrinacion -Trad. Catalan arr. Goff Richards / Chris Gabbitas
16. Winter Wonderland (shortened version) – Smith/Bernard arr. Alexander L’Estrange
17. Sleigh Ride – Leroy Anderson arr. Alexander L’Estrange
18. The Christmas Song – Wells/Tormé arr. Peter Knight / Chris Gabbitas
19. Jingle Bells – Pierpont arr. Ben Parry
20. Noche de Paz – Franz Gruber arr. James Burton
https://signumrecords.com/product/the-christmas-album/SIGCD762/
A Christmas Concert with Robert Shaw
Louise Seidel, soprano; Atlanta Symphony Chorus, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra / Robert Shaw
Vox VOX-NX-3027CD
Release: 27 October 2023
The art of the Christmas carol extends back to the Middle Ages,
producing a richly varied tradition that continues to the present day.
This programme highlights the evolution of Christmas music: from early monastic carols such as the original plainchant of "O come, O come, Emmanuel"; through the beautiful sixteenth-century melodies "Lo, how a rose e'er blooming" and the "Coventry Carol"; to the mighty splendours of later eras as exemplified by J. S. Bach, Vivaldi and Berlioz, with Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus" from Messiah reigning supreme.
This classic VOX recording featuring the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Robert Shaw was originally issued on the 2-LP set Nativity in 1976. The Elite Recordings for VOX by legendary producers Marc Aubort and Joanna Nickrenz are considered by audiophiles to be amongst the finest sounding examples of orchestral recordings.
1. O come, O come, Emmanuel - Traditional
2. So Blest a Sight - Traditional
3. Dormi, Jesu! Mater ridet
4. Lo, how a rose e'er blooming - Traditional
5. Coventry Carol - Traditional
6. Break forth, O wondrous morning light - J.S. Bach
7. Jesus, guide my beginning (from Christmas Oratorio)
8. Dona nomis pacem - Bach (from Mass in B minor)
9. The Shepherd's Farwell - Berlioz (from L'Enfance du Christ)
10. Adeste Fideles - Wade
11. Gloria in excelsis Deo (from Gloria in D major) - Vivaldi
12.Et in terra pax (from Gloria in D major) - A. Vivaldi
13. And there were shepherds (from Christmas Oratorio) - J.S. Bach
14. Farandole - Bizet (from L'Arlesienne Suite No. 2)
15. There is a Rose in Flower - Brahms
16. Introduction, March and Shepherd's Dance (from Amahl and the Night Visitors) - Menotti
17. The Adoration of the Magi - Respighi (from Trittico botticelliano)
18. I. Allegro non molto ("Winter" from The Four Seasons) - Vivaldi
19. II. Largo ("Winter" from The Four Seasons) - Vivaldi
20. Hallelujah (from Messiah) - Handel
Christmas from the Chapel Royal, The Choir of HM Chapel Royal, Hampton Court Palace
Released in October 2023
The Choir of HM Chapel Royal, Hampton Court Palace build on the tradition established by its historic forebears of cradling new church music, with a programme of music for Advent, Christmas and the Epiphany featuring seven premiere recordings alongside new interpretations of more established repertory that has become embedded in the musical heritage at the Palace.
The album features music by composers including Philip Moore, Andrew Carter, William Mathias, Martin Hindmarsh, David Willcocks and Francis Grier.
1. Shcho to za predïvo (Oh, what a wonder!)
William Harold Ferguson (1874–1950)
Decca US
Judith Clurman and Albany Records have released Christmas Joy (TROY1955), a collection of three works.
Essential Voices USA
Judith Clurman, Conductor
The Essential Strings: Suliman Tekali & Yu-Chie Wang, violins; Caeli Smith, viola; Coleman Itzkoff, cello
I. Illumination
Pierre Jalbert, Composer
William Schermerhorn, Text
II. The Snow
Bill Cutter, Composer
Lewis Carrol, Text
III. Christmas Joy
Arranged and text adaptation by Josh Clayton and Judith Clurman
Special liner notes and translations may be downloaded here:
Christmas-Joy-by-Essential-Voices-USA-Judith-Clurman-conductor.pdf
Illumination was written by composer Pierre Jalbert; the text is based on the poem “Illumination” by lyricist William Schermerhorn. The A Cappella work, for mixed voices, was commissioned by Essential Voices USA, in 2023, with funds from the Maury Newburger Foundation. The World Premiere will take place on December 16, 2023, with Judith Clurman conducting her Essential Voices USA.
Christmas Lights, Calmus Ensemble
- Jacobus Gallus (1550–1591): Resonet in laudibus (+)
- Johann Walter (1496–1570): Joseph, lieber Joseph mein
- Michael Praetorius (1571–1621): Es ist ein Ros entsprungen
- Alban Berg (1885–1935): Es ist ein Reis entsprungen
- Carl Gottlob Reißiger (1798–1859): Das Reis aus der Wurzel Jesse
- Hugo Distler (1908–1942): Ich brach drei dürre Reiselein
- Michael Praetorius (1571–1621): Es ist ein Ros entsprungen (3. Strophe)
- Dobrinka Tabakova (*1980): Good-will to men and peace on earth (+)
- Eduard Karl Nößler (1863–1943): Tröstet mein Volk
- Thomas Morley (1557–1602), arr. John Leavitt (*1956): Madrigal for Christmas
- Johannes Eccard (1553–1611): Übers Gebirg Maria geht
- Francis Poulenc (1899–1962): O magnum mysteriu
- Günter Raphael (1903–1960): Maria durch ein Dornwald ging
- Franz Wüllner (1832–1902): Kindelein zart, von guter Art
- Reiko Füting (*1970): Entre le bœuf
- Ludwig Böhme (*1979): Ich steh an deiner Krippen hier
- John Tavener (1944–2013): Rocking
- Hans-Jörg Kalmbach (*1951): Es kommt ein Schiff geladen
- Kō Matsushita (*1962): Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland
- Max Reger (1873–1916): Unser lieben Frauen Traum
- Gustav Nordqvist (1886–1949): Jul, jul, strålande jul
- Philip Lawson (*1957): Ding dong! merrily on high
- Jamie Cullum (*1979), arr. Konrad Zeisberg (*1999): The Jolly Fat Man
- Coldplay, arr. Konrad Zeisberg (*1999): Christmas Lights
Steven Verhaerts & KultBlech Resdent put out Kommet Ihr Hirten / Come, Ye Shepherds on Berlin Classics
Steven Verhaert & KultBlech Dresden
The new album "Come, ye shepherds" by KULTBLECHDRESDEN, the brass ensemble of the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra founded in 2018, is a guarantee for festive Christmas music.
The ensemble presents atmospheric Christmas songs such as "Joy to the world," "Engel auf den Feldern", "Amazing Grace" and "Silent Night" on the current recording.
With various medleys it goes on a musical world tour. "Weihnachten in Deutschland" is a compilation of well-known songs that are sure to be sung under Christmas trees nationwide in Germany. "Weihnachten in Europa" takes you further afield to the neighboring countries. "Hirten auf Reisen I" then spans a wider geographical arc with its Arabic sounds. And "Hirten auf Reisen II" even takes us to the far reaches of outer space.
The men's team KULTBLECHDRESDEN plays masterfully under the direction of conductor Steven Verhaert and demonstrates a sense of humor with all its devotion to Christmas traditions.
The subtle arrangements by Hans-Reiner Schmidt and Markus Höller, made especially for KULTBLECHDRESDEN, give the well-known melodies a very special glow.
Hardly any instrumental group is as closely associated with the Advent season as the brass group. And so the fourteen highly motivated musicians, supported by two lively percussionists and an enthusiastic conductor, follow this time-honored tradition and provide the whole family with exceptional Christmas music!
- Joy to the World
- Engel
- Hirten auf Reisen [Teil 1]
- Little drummer boy
- Weihnachten in Deutschland
- Amazing grace
- Euch ist ein Kindlein heut geborn
- Hirten auf Reisen [Teil 2]
- Weihnachten in Europa
- Stille Nacht
- Frohes Fest und gute Nacht
- You raise me up
In a perfect mixture of classical mastery and festive tradition, multiple prize-winning Lithuanian pianist Rasa Vitkauskaite offers a scintillating new take on holiday favorites recorded at world renowned Boston Symphony Hall.
From Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker "Waltz of the Flowers" to "Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town," this jubilee delights and ignites the Christmas spirit.
Traditional holiday favorites are transformed into world-class showpieces for concert piano that marry the majesty and joyfulness of the Christmas season.
Cozy up, and make merry with loved ones this holiday season, and enjoy A Concert Piano Christmas at Boston Symphony Hall!
A member of the prestigious Steinway Artist roster, Rasa is the long-serving, critically-acclaimed principal pianist of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra. She has published many highly acclaimed solo concerto, recital, and chamber music recordings, and has performed in more than 30 countries around the world.
This release features crystal clear dynamic sound and an impressive production team including four-time Grammy winning engineer Brad Michel, world-renowned clarinet soloist, conductor and producer Jonathan Cohler, and Canada’s premier graphic designer John Godfrey, who has designed art and graphics for films appearing in the Academy Awards, Tribeca and Sundance film festivals.
1. Nutcracker: Russian Dance. Trépak (Arr. Mikhail Pletnev)
2. Nutcracker: Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy (Arr. Mikhail Pletnev)
3. Nutcracker: March (Arr. Mikhail Pletnev)
4. Sleigh Ride (Arr. Andrew Gentile)
5. Christmas Carol Medley: "Joy to the World", "O Come, All Ye Faithful”, “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing”, “O Holy Night” (Arr. Kyle Landry)
6. Carol of the Bells (Arr. David Hicken)
7. I Saw Three Ships / Come Sailing In (Arr. Jarrod Radnich)
8. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (Arr. Jacob Koller)
9. O Christmas Tree / O Tannenbaum (Arr. Jacob Koller)
10. The Christmas Song / Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire (Arr. Jacob Koller)
11. White Christmas (Arr. Jacob Koller)
12. Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town (Arr. Jacob Koller)
13. I’ll Be Home for Christmas (Arr. Jacob Koller)
14. Nutcracker: Overture in Miniature (Arr. Karen Kornienko)
15. Nutcracker: Waltz of the Flowers (Arr. Karen Kornienko)
16. Ave Maria, S. 558/12 (After Schubert, D. 839)
Last Light Productions
O Bethlehem - arr. Poston for choir as 2 carols in Memory of Peter Warlock: No. 2
Praise our Lord - arr. Poston for choir as 2 carols in Memory of Peter Warlock: No. 2
Jesus Christ the Apple Tree - Poston
The Nativity
This is the Truth Sent From Above - female narrator, chorus,
O Joseph Being and Old Man Truly
And while they lived in joy and bliss - Angelus ad Virginem
Spoken Carol: I sing of a Maiden
Scena: Joseph and Mary walked
As Joseph was a-walkinI saw a fair maiden sitten and sing - Jesu, sweet son
Spoken Carol: A lovely lady thus did sing
Qui creavit coelum (Chorus) [c. 1425, Chester Manuscript]
Christo paremus cantica (Chorus) [15th century, Harleian Manuscript]
Sheepfolds (version for chorus and piano) - Poston
Balulalow - Poston
The Doormouse's Carol (version for piano and chorus) - Poston
Carol: Salve, Jesus, little lad - Poston
The Princesses' Carol (version for piano and orchestra) - Poston
In Bethlehem Town -
Sing unto the Lord
The Queen of Sheba's Song - It was a true report
Happy Are Thy Men
Song of Wisdom
Antiphon and Psalm - Laudate Domino
Berlin Classics
Humperdinck, Engelbert Dornroschen (Sleeping Beauty): Suite
» Festklange (Festive Sounds) Hansel und Gretel
» Abendsegen 'Abends will ich schlafen gehn'
» Dream Pantomime
» Overture
Reger, Max Schlichte Weisen (60 Simple Songs), op.76
» no.52 Maria Wiegenlied
Strauss, Richard Lieder (5), op.41
» no.1 Wiegenlied Serenade in E flat major for winds, op.7
Tchaikovsky, Pyotr Ilyich The Nutcracker, op.71
» March of the tin soldiers (Act 1)
On Christmas, Hauser has selected 14 holiday perennials, including eight seasonal carols beloved all over the world, four popular Christmas hits from The Great American Songbook, and two of the cellist’s favorite melodies of the spirit – the American hymn “Amazing Grace” and Mozart’s sublime sacred aria “Laudate Dominum.”
Each selection is festively “gift-wrapped” in lush new arrangements that feature HAUSER’s artistry with a full orchestra and chorus.
“I wanted this to be the ultimate Christmas album,” Hauser concludes, with the idea that the 14 selected songs and carols reflect every holiday mood, from “a fun Christmas and, I hope, a holy Christmas.”
Growing up in Croatia, Hauser remembers music at Christmas “as the most magical part of the year as a child.” It was also a family tradition, from his mother leading the choir at their local church to carols sung every year by his family at home.
“I always had the cello in my hands,” he recalls. “At times like Christmas, I would play around with it – that’s how I improved my improvisation skills because, since I was a little boy, I was not just a nerd who practiced scales, sonatas and concertos. This was the beginning of my diversity as a musician.”
HAUSER – CHRISTMAS
TRACKLISTING –
- The First Noël
- White Christmas
- Carol of the Bells
- O Little Town of Bethlehem
- O Holy Night
- Silent Night
- Angels We Have Heard on High
- The Christmas Song
- I’ll Be Home for Christmas
- Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
- The Little Drummer Boy
- Adeste Fideles
- Laudate Dominum
- Amazing Grace
Hugo Distler: Weihnachtsgeschichte (Die) -Riis, Vocal Group Concert Clemens (Vokalgruppen Concert Clemens), Seyer-Hansen
Hugo Distler’s exquisite Christmas narrative draws inspiration from German Protestant sacred music of the early Baroque era, particularly the music of Heinrich Schütz.
Illumine - National Children's Chorus, London Symphony Orchestra
The highly acclaimed ensemble Capella de la Torre by Katharina Bäuml, which has just been awarded the OPUS Klassik, invites you to a special musical Christmas in Italy on his new album.
As it was the Renaissance tradition in Italy, a colorful mix of different styles and moods can be heard. Gorgeous secular and spiritual, joyous and festive, instrumental and vocal music alternate.
With this deliberately set contrast, we want to reach the soundscape in Italy by approx. 1500 immersion and pay homage to the present," says Katharina Bäuml. It is music that has deeply touched us over the centuries to this day.
On "Capriccio Pastorale" one hears Italian Christmas songs, such as the famous Neapolitan song "Tu scendi dalle stelle", "Venite adoriamo" from Istria or the popular chorale »Angelus adirginem». There are even world premiere recordings on the album of Christmas hymns (Lauden), such as the living »Hor non nascescias» or the dance »Danza dei pastori».
The moving Christmas fair Missa de Sancta Maria by Heinrich Isaac (1450-1517), a Nuremberg composer who lived mainly in Italy, is also a world premiere record. Real discoveries are also the solemn works of his contemporaries, such as the Veronese composer Giovanni Animuccia (ca. 1514-1571), Giovanni Paolo Cima (1583-1643) or the papal singer and composer Francesco Soto de Langa (1534-1619). The colourfully instrumented Capella de la Torre is supported by the excellent soloists Margaret Hunter (soprano), Erika Tandiono (soprano) and Florian Cramer (tenor). A touching, festive Christmas album for all fans of Italian music!
1 Hoggi la vita nasce
2 Tutti debiam cantare
3 Missa de Sancta Maria a nativitate usque ad purificationem: Introitus
4 O Maria diana stella
5 Levate su pastori
6 Giga Angelella
7 Missa de Sancta Maria a nativitate usque ad purificationem: Versus - Alleluia
8 Nell' apparir del sempiterno sole
9 Angelus ad virginem
10 Missa de Sancta Maria a nativitate usque ad purificationem: Sequentia
11 Ditene'o pastori
12 Capriccio Pastorale, F 2.35
13 Hodie Christus natus est
14 Angelica bilta
15 Gloria, RISM I-TRmn 87.31
16 Tu scendi dalle stelle
17 E nato il grand Iddeo
18 Danza dei pastori
19 Venite adoriamo
20 Hor non nascescias
21 Quando nascette ninno
Pressed on Limited Edition Blue and White Color Vinyl for the first time ever, this album takes the best streamed tracks from `Essential Carols' and presents them in a brand new collectors format.
1 Mendelssohn: Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
2 Anonymous: The First Nowell
3 While Shepherds Watched
4 Anonymous, Arbeau: Ding Dong! Merrily on High
5 In Dulci Jubilo
6 Kirkpatrick: Away in a Manger
7 Gauntlett: Once in Royal David's City
8 Wade: Adeste Fideles (O Come, All Ye Faithful)
9 Anonymous: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
10 Anonymous: O Little Town of Bethlehem
11 Traditional: The Holly & the Ivy
12 Anonymous: I Saw Three Ships
13 See Amid the Winter's Snow
I signet juletid
Den Norske Studentersangforening, Kjartan Hverven, Vetle Røsten Granås, Trommegutten med venner
Marit Tøndel Bodsberg Weyde.
- Folkerfrelss - Traditional, ambrosius of Miliano Bernt Stoylen (Arr. for Choir by Kim Andre Arnesen
- Det Kimer na til julefes - Carl Christian Nicholaj Balle, N.F.S. Grudtvid (Arr. for Choir by Frank Havroy
- Den fagraste rosa - (arr. for Choir by Havard Gravdal, Traditional, Hans A. Brorson, Elias Blix
- Den fagraste rosa - (Arr. for Choir by Havard Gravdal), Traditional, Hans A. Brorson, Elias Blix
- Fra fjord og fjaere - (Arr. for Choir by Kim Andre Arnesen) Hardenack Otto Conrad Zink
- Herm'att tel jul - (Arr. for Choir by Kjetil Bjerkestrand), Eldar Vagan, Tande P., Viggo Sandvik
- Lille gutten med trommen - Katherine kennocott Davis, Knut Naerum
- O jul med din glede (Arr. for Choir by David Zhu Leiva), Traditional Gustave Kielland
- I denne sote juletide - (Arr. for choir by Henric Odegaard), Traditional, H.A. Brorson
- Kling no, klokka! - Trad
- 1Nordnorsk julesalme - (Arr. for Choir by Magnus Klokk Fremstad, Trygve Hoff
- Deilig er jorden - (Arr. for Choir by Eva Holm Foosnaes) Traditionl, B.S. Ingemann
- O Helga Natt - (Arr. for Choir by Eva Holm Foosnaes) A. Adams, Helene Bokl
Given that not one of the Masses by Jacques Arcadelt was included in our boxed set that revealed his immense musical personality to the world, we now remedy this situation with an indispensable addition.
https://outhere-music.com/en/albums/arcadelt-missa-noe-noe
La Petite Bande | Sigiswald Kuijken
Weihnachtsoratorium (re-issue)
The Christmas Oratorio is a series of six separate cantatas, collectively relating the story from Christmas through to Twelfth Night. Bach wrote the work in Leipzig in 1734 and 1735 for Christmas Day (I), Boxing day (II), the third day of Christmas (III), New Year (IV), the Sunday after New Year (V) and Twelfth Night (VI). As with the Passions, the texts here are drawn from three sources: (1) the evangelical texts (primarily Luke and Matthew) intoned by the Evangelist (tenor) as recitatives, (2) chorales from the Lutheran tradition and (3) free texts for arias and some choral passages, written by the poet Picander.
This performance is perhaps as close as presently possible to what we imagine Bach might have had in mind as he composed the work in Leipzig.
Continuing to focus attention on the 'historical truth' of performance (in other words, trying to get as close as possible to the circumstances in which the work was originally conceived and performed) is not a museum activity.
Jonathan Rutherford: The Wilderness and the Solitary Place, London Voices, Ben Parry, conductor; William Saunders organ.
Editor's Note: This recording has Rutherford's 1998 song cycle 3 Advent Carols and the work The Star Child and some carols.
"Isaiah 35: Three Advent Carols (1998) was written for my brother Christian when he was music director of the choir of Little St Mary’s Church, Cambridge. I was asked, by Little St Mary’s Church, to set the words of Chapter 35 of Isaiah, from the Old Testament.
At first, I could see no convincing way of setting the prose to music, and so I asked Jennifer Thorn, who had written the poem sung at the end of my piece "An Intake of Breath," to adapt it into verse.
She gave me the words which I have made the first of these three carols. While I was waiting for Jenny to write the verses, I found and read the lovely words, spoken by the character Isaiah, that open The Shearmen and Tailors’ Play (the Coventry Mystery Play) written probably between 1400 and 1425.
This became the second carol. While composing these two settings, it then became obvious to me how I should make the music for a setting of the original words in the Bible and provide a group of pieces that made a satisfactory whole.
Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis (1985) come from the last scene of the opera, The Star-Child (1979-85), which combines the stories of two of Oscar Wilde’s fairy tales, The Young King and The Star-Child.
I combined the two stories because they had so many similarities of plot and had scenes which yearned for music and theatre. Both of the stories concerned the disparity between those living with opulent wealth, and those in miserable poverty.
“Better that we had died of cold in the forest, or that some wild beast had fallen upon us and slain us” is a phrase which one of the woodcutters utters in the first scene of The Star-Child. In the action, the eponymous hero, having become narcissistic, feels guilty of cruelty, for he has rejected his mother, who is now a lone beggarwoman who has pleaded with him to come back to her.
In the second act, he has recognized through dreams, that in the making of his magnificent coronation robes, poverty-stricken slaves have died (“given their lives” is the euphemism).
He subsequently chooses to go to his coronation in rags, to the shame of everyone, the public alike.
Pilgrim’s Song (1984) is a setting of John Bunyan’s words from Pilgrim’s Progress which I used in the 2nd act of The Star-Child, which presents the dreams of the Young King, in which slaves’ lives have been sacrificed to make him rich and powerful.
The Star-Child, burdened by guilt, and choosing to reject the wealth he is to inherit, becomes a pilgrim as two monks, representing the Star Child’s dreaming soul, sing the poem in searching two-part counterpoint, expressing a sense of searching, while also evoking a sense of humility.
I have used John Bunyan’s original words, not Percy Dearmer’s famous and desecrated hymn version, which not only changes words altogether, but confuses 1st and 3rd persons.
"Rejoice! Rejoice! "(2010) was written for the Jubilee Opera Chorus production of Beatrix Potter’s The Tailor of Gloucester.
"In the Bleak Midwinter" (2015) is a setting of Christina Rosetti’s poem first published in January 1872. Without their asking, my setting was written for Seraphim, the amateur female singing group in East Anglia founded by Vetta Wise.
Because there was no prospect of Seraphim performing the work, I chose to allow myself intervals difficult for amateurs to sing. But, the members of Seraphim were very brave, and liking the music in rehearsal, were determined to sing it.
John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Song better known as the cheerful hymn He Who Would Valiant Be. The other is In the "Bleak Midwinter" made famous in the deeply comforting musical settings by both Gustav Holst and Harold Darke.
In the cases of both poems, I wanted to find a more challenging and poignant meaning in the words than the famous tunes would suggest. In Christina Rosetti’s carol I was keen to set the freezing words “snow on snow” in such a way that they would express bleakness and coldness.
Britten had done just this in his setting of "In the Bleak Midwinter" within his choral work, A Boy is Born.
Perhaps regretfully, I used a version of the poem found in a traditional anthology. Sadly, and primly, the anthology left out the beautiful verse about ‘a breastful of milk’.
"Blessèd is the Man who Finds Wisdom" (2015) (words from Proverbs chapter 3: verses 13-18) was written for Maggie Beale in memory of her husband John, to be sung by the Orford Benefice Choir (of which he was a member).
For "Behold, I Create New Heavens and a New Earth (2019) was written for Graeme Kay and the Orford Benefice Choir, who performed it on the occasion of the Easter 2019 dedication of the newly acquired Peter Collins organ.
To date, it is the only piece specifically written for that instrument since it came from Southampton to take its place in Orford. It is a setting of Isaiah 65: verses 17-25. Having discovered that the biblical reading for the day of performance was Isaiah 65: verses 17-25, I was immediately inspired by the interesting words, and I set them to music very quickly and confidently.
I was already familiar with the literary style and prophetic voice of Isaiah, as in 1999 I had set words from Isaiah 35 in my piece, Isaiah 35: Three Advent Carols. I am very pleased with my liberal choice of keys and modulations in this work.
I enjoyed briefly quoting Britten’s Old Abram Brown at one point. I have discussed tonality and modulation elsewhere in this booklet, as it is a fascinating and important subject.
Good Friday Music (Seven Last Words) (2015) was written for liturgical use, to enhance Good Friday services, and vigils, by the use of thoughtful and contemplative music and silences.
I was somewhat impatient with the lack of these qualities in a Good Friday service I had recently experienced, when the string quartet which performed Haydn’s Seven Last Words received applause from the congregation. The focus was on the activity of the musicians, and English politeness was observed.
The spirit and poignancy of the occasion should have invoked silence. Words can be so beautiful when given focus of mind and thoughtful expression; and so, the music throughout the composition develops not at all, because the important thing is how the words turn to silence, and meditation.
The music is full of phrases which become familiar by repetition and recognition. And then there are passages completely free from leitmotifs, such as the setting of “Greater love hath no man than this: That a man lay down his life for his friends” which was originally written for a Taizé service in a church local to me; as there seemed to be no existing Taizé chant for those words. In my setting, I took no trouble to find different music for the words “This is my commandment: That ye love one another, as I have loved you” as I was specifically avoiding development. In my setting – after the final words “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life” I wrote a final, paused, bar of silence and the indication that “This bar is everlasting peace; the congregation leaves in silent contemplation”.
Isaiah 35 – Three Advent Carols (1998)
1. Rejoice, you barren land
2. The Sofferent thatte seeth evere seycrette
3. The Wilderness and the Solitary Place
Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis & Pilgrim’s Song
from “The Star Child” (1979-1985)
4. Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis
5. Pilgrim’s Song
6. Rejoice! Rejoice! (2010)
7. In the Bleak Midwinter (2015)
8. Blessèd is the Man who Finds Wisdom (2015)
9. For Behold, I Create New Heavens and a New Earth (2018)
Good Friday Music (Seven Last Words) (2015)
10. The First Word
11. The Second Word
12. The Third Word
13 . The Fourth Word
14. The Fifth Word
15. The Sixth Word
16. The Seventh Word
Introducing the first recording devoted to the sacred choral music by award-winning Scottish composer Joanna Gill.
Joanna studied Composition under royal composer Paul Mealor, then moved to London to continue her studies in Composition for Film and Television at Kingston University.
Joanna was commissioned by His Majesty King Charles III to compose a new Scottish folk-song as part of the Honours of Scotland ceremony which took place on 5th July 2023 at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh.
Her work “A Song of Thanksgiving and Dedication” was composed as a tribute to Aberdeen University chancellor Queen Camilla and showcased the Doric language. This song was performed at the ceremony by mezzo-soprano Karen Cargill, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Ayoub sisters.
Joanna’s music has been performed by the BBC Singers, on BBC Radio 3, and in many prestigious venues including London’s Royal Albert Hall. Joanna is at home writing both choral and symphonic music, and has a natural ability to capture a range of moods and styles in one piece.
Paul Mealor writes ‘The music of Joanna Gill is one of intense spiritual joy, of heart-warming harmonies and of lively rhythmical spirit that is both deeply personal (almost autobiographical) and ‘all embracing’ – music from one soul to all others. Her work is unashamedly romantic, unpretentious and, like an open hand, a gift to all who perform or hear it.’
Editor's Note: The first collection of Joanna Gill’s choral works. Among the choral works included are seasonal pieces like “Before the paling of the stars,” A spotless rose,” “Drop down ye heavens,” “Evening snow,” “I heard the bells on Christmas Day,” “Look to the stable,” and “Sir Christemas.”
https://www.regent-records.co.uk/product/love-illuminates-joanna-gill/
Marc-Antoine Charpentier: Messe de Minuit
In Nativitatem H.416 & 421, etc.
Ensemble Correspondances, Sébastien Daucé
This album features Christmas music for the piano in a timeless journey through the decades and centuries. These songs have been through a remarkable evolution over the course of several centuries, with the changes they have undergone reflecting the shifting musical styles and cultural influences that prevailed in various times.
For this album, Jeroen van Veen has collected both well-known and lesser-known Christmas songs and arranged many of them for his own piano performance. The programme is freely, alternating slow with up-tempo and virtuosic with intimate songs. Some of the tracks are medleys combining two or more songs. Highlights include the ‘Christmas Fantasy’ by Alexander Rosenblatt, a virtuoso piece that combines several tunes, and the Fred Oldenburg version of ‘Silent Night’, written in answer to a challenge from some of the jazz teachers at the Enschede conservatory to use the strangest chords to harmonise the well-known song.
London Choral Sinfonia
This album will include several Christmas works.
9. Ding Dong Merrily on High
December
10. Advent Calendar
11. Hark, the Herald Angels Sing
12. Silent Night
13. The Gate of the Year
Three Marian Hymns
14. O Sanctissima
15. Salve Regina
16. Ave Maria
https://www.orchidclassics.com/releases/orc100256-lcs-hough/
Miracle of Miracles: Music for Hanukkah, Chicago A Capella
Chicago a cappella,
the innovative vocal ensemble praised for its “clarity, well-balanced
tone, and deep emotional involvement” (Washington Post), presents
"Miracle of Miracles — Music for Hanukkah", a new recording aimed at
unveiling the richer meaning of the Festival of Lights, with music that
ranges from heartfelt prayers to jazzy and playful holiday favorites,
showcasing the creativity and vitality of American Jewish musical
traditions.
The album features a collection of songs from more
than 25 years of Chicago a cappella performances, arranged into a single
program that replays the story of Hanukkah, from celebrations of the
holiday itself through to its candles, miracles, religious observances,
and traditional food and games.
https://www.cedillerecords.org/albums/miracle-of-miracles/
Morgen, Kinder, wird's was geben. Ein musikalischer Adventskalender
The Christmas season can come. With this musical Advent calendar from the Landesmusikakademie Ochsenhausen, there is a new surprise every day.
Conductor: Christine Wetzel, Klaus K. Weigele, Michael Nonnemann, Klaus Brecht, Hans de Gilde
Orchestra/Ensemble: The Academy Collective 21, Jugendchor Voicelab, Kinderchor Singsalsing, Calmus Ensemble, Christophorus-Kantorei Altenstieg, Madchenchor des Ulmer Spatzen Chors
Performer: Barbara Comes, Stefan Gunther, Ludwig Bohme, Bobbi Fischer, Clara Weigele, Sophie Reichardt, Christine Rothe, Marcel Leczky
Label: Carus
Traditionally in the UK, the days preceding Twelfth Night have an air of post-Christmas lull. It’s a sleepy time, as we look expectantly to the promise of a new year. Days are cold and short, glistening with frost and punctuated by long, dark nights.
But then there is ‘Little Christmas’—Epiphany, which comes from the Greek ‘epiphaneia’, meaning ‘appearance’, and which is one of the three principal and oldest festival days of the Christian Church. The revelation of Jesus Christ to the world, the visit of the Magi, the baptism of Jesus and the wedding at Cana are all celebrated at this time. Following an old tradition, those who forget to take down their Christmas trees on Epiphany eve must leave them untouched until Candlemas: it is this period which forms the musical timeline for much of this album.
There is no shortage of wonderful repertoire to explore at this time of year. Full of hope and joy, much of it alluding to the ‘morning star’, it offers a promise of renewal and rebirth. These works remind us to celebrate the gifts we have received, and to wonder at the mystical alchemy described in the Epiphany story. On this album we weave a tapestry of well-known seasonal carols together with Renaissance gems and highlights from the twenty-first century. We hope that the music contained here reflects the joy we had performing it, as we return to the chapel at Trinity College in Cambridge, where we made our first festive album a few years ago. Owain Park © 2023
The Three Kings Peter Cornelius
INTROIT: Ecce advenit dominator Plainchant
Maria wallt zum Heiligtum Johannes Eccard
Ecce advenit Dominator Dominus William Byrd
GRADUAL: Omnes de Saba venient Plainchant
In Winter’s House Joanna Marsh
Mirabile mysterium Jacob Handl
Here is the little door Herbert Howells
ALLELUIA: Vidimus stellam Plainchant
Magi veniunt ab oriente C. non Papa
Morning Star Arvo Pärt
There is no rose Adrian Peacock
OFFERTORY: Reges Tharsis Plainchant
Tribus miraculis Lassus
Oh, send out thy light Owain Park
COMMUNION: Vidimus stellam Plainchant
In Mary’s Love Judith Bingham
Illuminare Jerusalem Manchicourt
Bethlehem of noblest cities Trad. arr. Park
Music on Christmas Morning: A Festive Mix of Fresh and Favourite Carols, Vasari Singers, Jeremy Backhouse
Christmas is a time for special musical experiences, from gentle traditional carols to rousing calls for worship. This recording fully represents the Vasari Singers’ renowned seasonal programmes, mixing familiar festive fun with newly inspired creations such as the world premiere recording of Helena Paish’s beautiful setting of words by the youngest of the Brontë sisters. From the evocative narrative of Finzi’s In Terra Pax to the joyous potpourri of A Merry Little Christmas, this, like the Vasari Singers’ previous Christmas release, A Winter’s Light (Naxos 8.573030), is a recording to treasure. Martin Ford on organ. Directed by Jeremy Backhouse.
1. In Terra Pax, Christmas Scene - Finzi (with Rodrick Williams, baritone and Jocelyn Somerville soprano)
2. On Christmas night "Sussex Carol"
3. Christmas Lullaby - Rutter
4. A Spotless Rose - Howells (with R. Williams and Elizabeth Limb, soprano)
5. Venite, Gaudte! - Peacock
6. Music on Christmas Morning - Paish (with J. Somerville)
7. Dormi, Jesu - Rutter
8. Les anges dan nos campagnes - Chilcott
9. Quelle es cette odeur agreable? - Traditional (with R. Williams)
10. Dong dong! Merrily on High - Traditional
11. Candlelight Carol - Rutter
12. London Waits (Past Three o'clock) - Liewellyn (with R. Williams)
13. Nova, nova - Farrington
14. Sleep, Jesus, Sleep - Traditional
15. A Merry Little Christmas - Martin/Bernard/Styne/Berlin
16. We wish you a merry Christmsas - Tradiational
https://www.naxos.com/CatalogueDetail/?id=8.574542
Vetra: My Norwegian Winter: Regnhild Hemsing
The Norwegian violinist Ragnhild Hemsing has always incorporated old, Norwegian traditions on her three previous albums for Berlin Classics.
Some folk melodies are old, very old indeed. In the past, melodies and especially church songs were only ever passed on from mouth to mouth. Much was lost, some was changed again and again.
https://www.berlin-classics-music.com/en/album/88547376-vetra/
One of Britain’s most popular contemporary composers, Patrick Hawes, has teamed up with the excellent Voce Chamber Choir of Connecticut to create an album of twenty brand-new Christmas choral works. Specially written for the choir, the first collection and album title, sets words by Pat- rick’s poet brother Andrew. The Nativity, for unaccompanied choir, moves through the Christmas nativity scene exploring the drama of this momentous moment in human history. For the second collection, Patrick has set Four Christmas Motets, the fragile ancient poetry giving rise to tender and heartfelt music for unaccompanied choir. The album goes on to explore the Christmas story through various texts, old and new, in works that are set to become extremely popular with choirs around the world.
Composer Patrick Hawes says “Christmas is my absolute favourite time of year and it has been a joy to set such inspiring and dramatic words to music. The variety of texts – from ancient to modern – are all so relevant for today because they speak of eternal truths and the mystery of the Christmas story. I am thrilled with how Voce and their director Mark Singleton have brought a freshness of approach and musical excellence to their interpretation of this exciting project.”
1. What Child is This
2. In Bethlehem
3. This Endernight
The Nativity
4. The Manger
5. The Infant
6. The Oxen
7. The Shepherd
8. The Star
9. the Magi
10. Joseph's Carol
11. Still Stil
12. Behold, the King
Four Christmas Motets
13. Virga Jesse
14. Puer Natus
15. Nesciens Mater
16. Gaudate Omnes
17. The Heart of Mary
18. Minstrels
19. Lullay My Liking
https://signumrecords.com/product/the-nativity/SIGCD752/
RIMSKY-KORSAKOV, N.A.: Christmas Eve [Opera] (G. Vasiliev, Muzychenko, A. Popov, Shkoza, Tikhomirov, Frankfurt Opera Chorus and Orchestra, Weigle)
Rimsky-Korsakov’s Christmas Eve, based on a short story by Gogol, centres on the love of the blacksmith Vakula for the rich farmer’s daughter Oksana, who mockingly requires him to obtain for her the Tsarina’s shoes in order to win her hand in marriage.
However, evil spirits are on the rampage imperiling their love – a witch on her broomstick gathers the stars and the devil steals the moon. Rimsky-Korsakov blends Christian and pagan elements, Ukrainian folk songs and carols, and atmospheric orchestral interludes in this vivacious and fantastical village romance.
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1 |
Act II Tableau 4: Kolyaduyu, kolyaduyu, kovbasu chuyu (I'm
singing carols) (Vakula, Chorus, Oksana, Panas, Two Women, Deacon, Chub,
Mayor) |
18:59 |
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2 |
Act III Tableau 5: Vareniki-to sami skachut v rot!… (The
vareniki are just jumping into his mouth) (Vakula, Patsyuk, Devil) |
06:39 |
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3 |
Act III Tableau 6: Introduction |
02:43 |
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4 |
Act III Tableau 6: Games and Dances of the Stars |
02:31 |
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5 |
Act III Tableau 6: Sobiraytesya, kolduny, veduny
(Assemble, witches and sorcerers!, "Diabolic Kolyada") (Patsyuk,
Solokha, Chorus, Vakula) |
05:37 |
||
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6 |
Act III Tableau 7: Polonaise: Slav', truba, timpan,
tsevnitsa… (Praise our Zsarina!) (Chorus) |
05:50 |
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7 |
Act III Tableau 7: Svetleyshiy obeshchal menya segodnya
(His Highness promised) (Tsarina, Vakula, Chorus, Devil) |
04:59 |
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8 |
Act III Tableau 8: Vperyod, vperyod, moy kon'! (Onwards,
my steed!) (Vakula, Chorus) |
07:14 |
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9 |
Act IV Tableau 9: Introduction |
01:27 |
||
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10 |
Act IV Tableau 9 Scene 1: Zdorovo, kum Korniy! (Greetings,
friend Chub!) (Two Women, Chub, Oksana) |
02:07 |
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11 |
Act IV Tableau 9 Scene 2: Propal kuznets (The blacksmith's
disappeared) (Oksana) |
06:29 |
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12 |
Act IV Tableau 9 Scene 3: Akh! Vakula!… Eto on! (Vakula!
It's him!) (Oksana, Chub, Vakula) |
04:16 |
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13 |
Act IV Tableau 9 Scene 4: Kuznets vernulsya zhiv i zdrav!
(The blacksmith's back alive) (Chorus) |
01:08 |
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14 |
Act IV Epilogue, "In memory of Gogol": Byl il'
ne byl u tsaritsy – ne skazhu ya vam, devitsy (I won't say if I met the
Tsarina or not) (Vakula, Chorus, Oksana, Chub, Panas, Mayor, Deacon) |
02:39 |
https://www.naxos.com/CatalogueDetail/?id=8.660543-44
Noël! Armonico Consort
1 O Adonai – Toby Young
2 On Christmas Night – Trad, arr. P. Ledger
3 The Shepherd’s Carol – Bob Chilcott
4 The Astronomer’s Carol –Toby Young
5 The Star-Song – Jonathan Dove
6 Away in a Manger – Trad. French
7 In the Bleak Midwinter – Harold Darke
8 Jesus Christ the Apple Tree – Elizabeth Poston
9 O Little Town of Bethlehem – Trad, Descant by R. Marlow
10 Nesciens Mater – Jean Mouton
11 Angel’s Carol – John Rutter
12 What Sweeter Music – John Rutter
13 O Magnum Mysterium – Tomás Luis de Victoria
14 Hope Finds a Way – Jonathan Roberts
15 Silent Night – Franz Xaver Gruber, arr. J. Rathbone
https://signumrecords.com/product/noel/SIGCD754/
Nova, Nova! Hertfordshire Chorus
Christmas carols have a universal appeal stemming from the tradition of music being played, sung, re- arranged and rewritten by different generations in many different countries and over a number of centuries.
Louis Halsey’s Nova! Nova!, a collection of new arrangements of many of the most well-known and beautiful carols from as far back as medieval times, represents perhaps the largest collection of carols by a single composer for many years. Hertfordshire Chorus and David Temple have record- ed 23 of these carols in this beautifully presented new collection, including English, German, French, Czech, Basque, Welsh and Irish melodies.
1. Joy to the World
2. Ding! Dong! Merrily on High
3. Stille Nacht
4. Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day
5. This is the Truth Sent from Above
6. O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
7. Noel Nouvelet
8. On Christmas Night all Christians sing
9.Il est ne le Divin Enfant
10. Now the Holly Bears a Berry
11. Unto us is Born a Son
12. Ein Kindlein in der Wiegen
13. Deck the Hall with Boughts of Holly
14. Of the Father's Heart Begotten
15. The Holly and the Ive
16. The Angel Gabriel
17. Jajej, Nynej, Jezisku
18. O Tannenbaum
19. Coventry Carol
20. Quelle Cette Odeur Agreable
21. Here we Come A-wassiling
22. In Dulci Jubilo
23. Come all You Worthy
Signum Classics
https://signumrecords.com/product/nova-nova-joy-to-the-world/SIGCD755/
The Nutcracker Suite
Chineke! Orchestra, Andrew Grams
Decca Classics (digital only)
Release: 27 October 2023
Chineke! Orchestra releases a toe-tapping rendition of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker Suite, arranged and released in the 1960s by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. The work takes themes from Tchaikovsky's beloved 1892 festive ballet with a jazz twist.
4. IV. Sugar Rum Cherry (Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy)
No Small Wonder, Staint Thomas Choir of Men & Boys Fift Avenue New Work, Jeremy Filsell
Recorded May 23–25, 2022
Producer & Editor: Adrian Peacock
Recording Engineer: Mark Willey
Duration: 79’33”
APL53981
- Once in Royal David’s City Irby † | Philip Ledger (descant)
- Francis Segger, treble solo
- Rorate, caeli desuper | Leo Nestor
- Adam Lay Ybounden | Matthew Martin
- A Song of Wisdom＊| Charles Villiers Stanford
- Venite, Gaudete! | Adrian Peacock
- Fantasia, The Christmas Light: (Lux fulgebit hodie) Nicolas Haigh, organ | Simon Preston
- On Christmas Day † | Simon Preston
- The Blessed Virgin’s Cradle Song † William Hanoian, treble solo | Edward Bairstow
- God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen＊| arr. David Willcocks
- As I Outrode This Enderes Night＊| Gerald Hendrie
- Chanticleer＊| Richard Dirksen
- Ding Dong Merrily on High＊| Stephen Hough
- Toccata Festiva (from Partita for Piano 2019), Jeremy Filsell, organ | Stephen Hough
- No Small Wonder † | Paul Edwards
- Sussex Carol: On Christmas Night＊| arr. Philip Ledger
- In the Bleak Midwinter † John Ramseyer, tenor solo | Francis Pott
- Seek him that maketh the seven stars＊| Jonathan Dove
- Epiphany＊| Judith Bingham
- Epiphany Carol William Hanoian, treble solo | Alexander L’Estrange
- O come, all ye faithful Adeste Fideles † | J. F. Wade, arr. David Willcocks
- Jeremy Filsell, The Nancy B. & John B. Hoffmann Organist and Director of Music
† Maks Adach, Assistant Organist
Fabricius: O liebes Kind – Baroque Christmas Music / La Protezione della Musica
On Christmas Night: Carols from Merton
Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Benjamin Nicholas
Digital Only, releases Nov. 10, 2023.
Benjamin Nicholas and his Choir of Merton College Oxford present a starlit celebration of Advent choral music and Christmas carols from composers old and new.
Favourites including Of the Father’s Heart Begotten and In the Bleak Midwinter sit excitingly alongside new commissions and contemporary composers including Kerensa Briggs, Roxanna Panufnik, and Bulgarian-British composer Dobrinka Tabakova.
1. The lore at first did Adam make
2. A tender shoot
3. Tomorrow shall be my dancing day
4. This is the truth sent from above
5. O magnum mysterium
6. Morning Star
7. Of a rose we sing
8. In the bleak midwinter
9. People look east
10. Sleep, little Jesus, sleep
11. Walcolm, Yule!
12. The Three Kings
13. Ave maris stella
14. Was I the Lamb
15. Alma Redemptoris
16. There is no rose
17. Sleep, Jesus sleep
18. O mortal man
19. Hodie Christus natus est
20. Ave Maria
21. Bogoroditse Devo
22. On Christmas Day
23. Of the Father's heart begotten
Delphian
https://www.delphianrecords.com/products/on-christmas-night-carols-from-merton
MAXWELL DAVIES, P.: O magnum mysterium: 4 Carols (Bavarian Radio Chorus, Arman)
Rutter Orchestral Carols
Britten Sinfonia, Daniel Hyde
Label Description:
The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, releases a selection of arrangements and original works for choir and orchestra by John Rutter under the direction of Daniel Hyde, featuring Britten Sinfonia. RUTTER ORCHESTRAL CAROLS includes beautiful orchestral arrangements of well-known favourites such as Silent Night and Sans Day Carol as well as
Rutter’s original carols All bells in paradise and All the stars looked down, which is dedicated to the late Sir Stephen Cleobury.
“It was a pleasure to record a handful of John’s carols, some old, some new, in these colourful orchestrations. Both John Rutter and the Britten Sinfonia are long term friends and partners with King’s College Choir; hopefully these new tracks will add a bit of magic to people’s Christmas this year.” – Daniel Hyde, Director of Music, King’s College
1. Silent Night - Gruber
2. All the Stars Looked Down - Rutter
3. Child in a Manger - Traditional Celtic - arr. Rutter
4. Sans Day Carol - arr. Rutter
5. Blake's Lullaby - Rutter
6. All the Bells in Paradise - Rutter
https://www.chandos.net/products/catalogue/KG%200069
Digital Only
“Santtu Conducts The Nutcracker” marks the inaugural digital release by Philharmonia Records, showcasing Tchaikovsky’s enduring Christmas ballet, The Nutcracker. Conducted by Santtu-Matias Rouvali, this performance, held at the Royal Festival Hall in 2021, captures the enchanting melodies of the ballet, from the music-box tones of the ‘Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy’ to the ethereal ‘Waltz of the Flowers.’
Philharmonia Orchestra
Santtu-Matias Rouvali
https://signumrecords.com/product/santtu-conducts-the-nutcracker-suite-digital-only/SIGCD865/
Salisbury Christmas, The Choir of Salisbury Cathedral, David Halls
Released November 15, 2023.
Description from https://www.salisburycathedral.org.uk/salisbury-cathedral-launches-first-christmas-album-for-a-decade/ with changes for easier mobile viewing.
"On 15 November 2023, Salisbury Cathedral Choir is releasing its first Christmas album for over a decade on its own recently founded Salisbury Cathedral record label.
The album entitled Salisbury Christmas is a collection of Christmas carols old and new, sung by Salisbury Cathedral Choir, with John Challenger (organ), directed by David Halls.
The album features the full Cathedral Choir, girl and boy choristers and adult singers, accompanied on the famous ‘Father’ Willis organ.
Many works on the album have a particular Salisbury link. Several carols are arrangements by the late Sir David Willcocks, Organist at Salisbury Cathedral in the 1940s and subsequently Director of the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, famous for Carols from King’s on BBC television and radio each Christmas Eve.
Herbert Howells, another former organist, is represented in the beautiful carol, Sing lullaby along with a new award-winning work, "Toccata on the Advent hymn ‘Wachet auf’", by David Halls, the Cathedral’s current Director of Music.
Across the decades there has been another change, with work by women composers included in the album line up. Amongst those is Errollyn Wallen, the award-winning composer named as one of the BBC’s 100 Women in 2018, who was commissioned by Salisbury Cathedral Choir to write "Salisbury Carol". Errollyn’s carol was first performed in Salisbury Cathedral on 22 December 2022 and is a tribute to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Other women composers include Cecilia McDowall, Sally Beamish and Jeanne Demessieux. There is also a carol by contemporary favourite composer, John Rutter.
As is fitting for a home-grown album, the cover image has been
supplied by Salisbury photographer and ICU consultant Martin Cook.
David Halls, Salisbury Cathedral’s Director of Music, said:
'Christmas is a very special time of year at the Cathedral, and we
welcome thousands of worshippers and concert goers over this very busy
period. The selection of works on this album incorporates several old
and well-known Christmas carols as well as newer works, and I’m
delighted that, through this new album, we can share the joy of
Christmas from Salisbury Cathedral with people at home.'
Physical copies of Salisbury Christmas are available to purchase from Salisbury Cathedral shop or online via the Cathedral’s website or streamed via this link.
Proceeds from sales of recordings released by Salisbury Cathedral continue to support the Cathedral’s music funds, continuing our rich tradition of music as well as enabling future projects."
1. God rest you merry - Trad. arr. Willcocks
2. In the stillness - Sally Beamish
3. Tocata: Wachet auf - David Halls
4. I sing of a maiden - Patrick Hadley
5. There shall a star - Felix Mendelssohn
6. Hymne a la Vierge - Pierre Villette
7. Rorate caeli - Jeanne Demessieux
8. Tomorrow shall be my dancing day - John Gardner
9. Before the paling of the stars - Cecilia McDowall
10. Candlelight Carol - John Rutter
11. In dulci jubilio (BWV 729) - J.S. Bach
12. Salisbury Carol - Errollyn Wallen
13. Sing lullaby - Herbert Howells
14 Hark the herald angels sing - Felix Mendelssohn
15. The Holy Boy - John Ireland
16. Sussex Carol - Trad arr. Willcocks
Season of Light: Christmas with the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square, with Lea Salonga and Sir. David Suchet. Mack Wilberg and Ryan Murphy, conductors.
The traditional time-honored stories and beloved tales associated with Christmas are indispensable to the celebrations.
"Good King Wenceslas," for example, or Dickens's A Christmas Carol, Clement Clarke Moore's "A Visit from Saint Nicolas," Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Match Girl," O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi," and even a New York Sun newspaper column addressed to a concerned young girl named Virginia.
Each of these Christmas stories personifies a reminder that this is a time of joy, hope, compassion, mercy, and love. But the greatest Christmas story of all, the one most central to the season, is the story of a Holy Child born in a humble manger.
That Nativity story begins the ultimate expression of love-a divine love extended to all who ever lived-and is the reason for our eternal hope.
Lavishly decorated with books of all sizes, the stage in the 21,000-seat Conference Center in Salt Lake City became a "library" for The Tabernacle Choir's celebration of these myriad Christmas stories. There were tales told through music, dance, and narrative of excited shepherds on the hills outside of Bethlehem, of heroism during wartime, of sleigh rides and caroling, of the challenges of new motherhood, and of faith in a Savior who would redeem the whole world.
The Choir's special guests at this concert, famed actress and singer Lea Salonga and renowned star of television and film Sir David Suchet, joined in the storytelling and shared their own personal accounts of the truths celebrated at Christmas. With the Choir, Orchestra, and Bells at Temple Square, the Gabriel Trumpet Ensemble, and dancers from the local community, all joined together to proclaim a joyful "Noel!" at the good news of Christ's birth.
1. When shepherds saw the light - Traditional, Arr. Mack Wilberg
2. The Most Wonderful Time of the Year - Music and Text: Eddie Pola and George Wyle, Arrr. Michael Davis
3. Payapang Daigdig - music - Felipe de Leon, text Brigido Batungbakal and Eduardo de Leon, Arr. M. Wilberg
4. And then shall your light break forth (from Elijah) - F. Mendelssohn
5. Ding Dong! Merrily on High - Arr. Ryan Murphy
6. Christmas Together Medley - Arr. Ryan Murphy
Sleigh Ride - L. Anderson
I'll be home for Christmas - Walter Kent
O Holy Night - Adolphe Charles Adam
7. Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming - Kolner Gesangbuch. Arr. M. Wilberg
8. Hosanna in excelsis (Based on Canon in D) - J. Pachelbel, Arr. Mack Wilberg
9. Here we come a-caroling - Arr. Mack Wilberg
10. On Christmas Night ("Sussex Carol") - Arr. Richard Elliott (with themes by Camile Saint-Saens)
11. The Christmas Story - music Mack Wilberg
13. Rocking Carol - traditional Czech, Arr. M. Wilberg
14. Angels from the Realms of Glory - arr. M. Wilberg
Star of Bethlehem Lead us to Peace, 2022 Concordia Christmas Concert
Experience the Emmy Award-winning Concordia Christmas Concerts! "Star of Bethlehem, Lead Us to Peace," the 2022 Concordia Christmas Concert, features nearly 300 student musicians performing works by J. Robert Hanson, Stephen Paulus, Rosephanye Powell, John Rutter, René Clausen, Paul J. Christiansen, and more.
- Prelude on How Brightly Shines the Morning Star - J. Robert Hanson
- Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence - Edward Cuthbert Bairstow
- How Far is it to Bethlehem? - arr. Paul J. Christiansen
- O Come, O Come, Emmanuel - arr. J. Robert Hanson
- O Holy Night - arr. René Clausen
- Splendid Jewel - Stephen Paulus
- Over the Hills Young Mary Hastes - Johannes Eccard, edited Susan Cherwien
- O Magnum Mysterium - Ivo Antognini
- What Child is This - arr. Matthew Culloton
- This Endris Night - Sarah Quartel
- Shepherd's Pipe Carol
- Ogo ni fun Oluwa! - Rosephanye Powell
- All My Heart This Night Rejoices - Z. Randall Stroope
- Rise Up Shepherd and Follow - arr. Paul Nesheim
- Silent Night - arr. René Clausen
- Praise to the Lord - arr. F. Melius Christiansen
- Dona Nobis Pacem - Ralph Vaughan Williams
- Songs of Thankfulness and Praise - arr. René Clausen
- I Will Be a Child of Peace - arr. Elaine Hagenberg, orch. Matthew Culloton
- Compline - arr. René Clausen
Sweet was the Song is a collection of festive repertoire featuring many first recordings of new music from the 21st century.
Tewkesbury Abbey Schola Cantorum is the choir of choristers and lay clerks that sings the weekday services of Choral Evensong in the Abbey during school term time.
In 2006, Dean Close Preparatory School became the choir school for the choristers of Schola Cantorum, following the closure of the former Abbey School in Tewkesbury. Every year since then, the Dean Close Schools have commissioned a new Christmas carol, all of which have been performed by the Schola Cantorum and the Senior School’s Chapel Choir at their respective carol services.
On this album, nine of these commissioned works are featured, forming the backbone of the programme, with first recordings of works by Alexander L’Estrange, Owain Park, Kerensa Briggs, Ben Ponniah, Malcolm Archer, Carleton Etherington, and Neil Cox.
Recorded in the glorious acoustic of Tewkesbury Abbey the
recording also features two organ solo pieces from David Bednall and
George Baker, played by Carleton Etherington.
- Adam lay ybounden - Philip Stopford
- Isaiah's Prophecy (commission)- Alexander L'Estrange
- This is the truth send from aboe - Trad., arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams and Christopher Robinson
- The holly and the ivy - French trad., arr. June Nixon
- Lullay my liking (commission) - Owain Park
- Susanni (commission) - Grayston Ives
- Sweet was the song the Virgin sang (commission) - Kerensa Briggs
- Sussex Carol - Trad., arr. Philip Ledger
- O little on sweet (commission) - Ben Ponniahh
- As I sat on a sunny bank (commission) - Malcolm Archer
- Moonless darkness stands between (commission) - Philip Wilby
- I wonder as I wander - Carol Rutti
- Wie schon lechtet (Meditation) - David Bednall (organ solo)
- I sing of a maiden (premiere recordings) - Carleton Etherinton
- Ding dong! merrily on high - 16th century French melody, arr. Stuart Nicholson
- Three are the precious gifts (commission) - Neil Cox
- Before the paling of the stars (commisssion) - James Laino
- Nowell we sing - Matthew Martin
- Toccata-Gigue on the Sussex Carol - George Baker (organ solo)
https://www.regent-records.co.uk/product/sweet-was-the-song/
Tidings of Joy - Christmas with the Voktett Hannover
Rondeau Production ROP6220
Release: 20 October 2023
Like twinkling starlight, the joyful tidings of Christmas run through
centuries of music – from Bethlehem's night sky to the present day. In
their new album 'Tidings of Joy', the eight singers of the Voktett
Hannover present a selection of Christmas music in sophisticated a
cappella settings.
The recording contains works by well-known composers such as Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, Gottfried Wolters, Hugo Distler, Heinrich Schütz, Michael Praetorius, Max Reger and Peter Cornelius, arranged by Clytus Gottwald (1925-2023). Contemporary settings and equally familiar melodies come from Sebastian Knappe (born 1989), David Willcocks (1919-2015), James Lord Pierpont (1822-1893) and Irving Berlin (1888-1989), among others, in the arrangement by Jeremy Davies.
1. Sech Spruche, Op. 79: Im Advent
2. Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland
3. Veni, Emmanuel
4. Zwolf deutsche geistliche Gesange WoO VI/13
5. Sechs Spruche, Op. 79 Weihnachten
6. Kommet, ihr Hirten
7. Kie Konige
8. Maria durch ein Dornwald ging
9. Die Weihnachtsgeschichte, Op. 10 (Ausgewahte Chorale)
10. Ein Kind ist uns geboren
11. In dulci jubilo
12. Tomorrow Shall be My Dancing Day
13. Tiding of Comfort and Joy
14. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
15. Jingle Bells
16. White Christmas
This recording off of ECM, is not all Christmas, but does contain Part's compositions on the Greater Antiphons.
I. O Wisdom
II. O AdonaiIII. O Root of Jesse
IV. O Key of David0
V. O Morning Star0
VI. O King of all People
VII. O Emmanuel03:0
In his 50-year tenure as conductor of The Boston Pops, Arthur Fiedler transformed the Boston Symphony Orchestra offshoot into perhaps the most renowned pops orchestra in the world.
Under a Winter's Moon, Loreena McKennitt
Under A Winter's Moon features 15 seasonal songs performed by
Loreena, interspersed with seasonal readings by Canadian Indigenous
actor and Companion of the Order of Canada, Tom Jackson, Gemini
Award-winning actor Cedric Smith and Ojibway artist and flutist Jeffrey
"Red" George.
Loreena McKennitt’s Under A Winter’s Moon
was recorded live during a series of seasonal concerts in a historic
church sanctuary around the time of the solstice in December 2021. The
two-disc package features approximately an hour’s worth of music and
half an hour of spoken word which intertwine to create a unique and
evocative seasonal listening experience.
Disc: 1
1. Tom Jackson Reads the Sky Woman Story
2. Bululalow
3. Let Us the Infant Greet
4. The Wexford Carol
5. Banquet Hall
6. Dickens Dublin
7. Un Flambeau Jeanette, Isabelle/I saw Three Ships Medley
8. Jeffrey George Recites Winter Diamonds
9. Huron Carol
10. Let All That Are to Mirth Inclined
Disc: 2
1. Snow
2. A Child's Christmas in Wales, Part One
3. The Holly and the Ivy
4. A Child's Christmas in Wales, Part Two
5. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentleman
6. A Child's Christmas in Wales, Part Three
7. Gloucestershire Wassail
8. A Child's Christmas in Wales, Part Four
9. Good King Wenceslas
10. A Child's Christmas in Wales, Part Five
11. Coventry Carol
12. A Child's Christmas in Wales, Part Six
13. In the Bleak Midwinter
https://shoploreenamckennitt.com/products/under-a-winters-moon-3lp
Choral Music (Christmas) - NILES, J.J. / JOUBERT, J. / KIRKPATRICK, W.J. / HOLST, G. (Venite, Gaudete: Music for the Christmas Season) (Ikon, D. Hill)
This glorious programme represents both the unique magic of Christmas carols, and the deeply rooted tradition of re-inventing their words and music for the times in which they are performed. From David Hill’s unashamedly lush, close-part harmonies enhancing Silent Night, to Eric Whitacre’s hallmark luminous vocal textures in "Lux aurumque," this recording is a superb celebration of the moving atmosphere and festive nature of the Christmas season.
- O Come Emmanuel - arr. David hill
- Coventry Carol - Trad. arranger Richard Allain
- I wonder, as I wander - Trad. arr. Richard Rodney Bennett
- Torches, Op. 7 - Trad. arr. John Joubert
- Away in a manger - William J. Kirkpatrick, arr. David Hill
- Lullay my liking - Gustav Holst. arr. David Hill for choir and organ
- In dulci jubilo, Op. 10 - Robert Lucas Pearsall
- Angelus ad virginem - arr. Barry Rose for choir and organ
- Silent Night - Franz Xavier Gruber/Josef Mohr. arr. David Hill for choir and organ
- Resonet in laudibus - Michael Praetorius. arr. D. Hiley for choir
- The World's Desire: The Christ-child lay - Kenneth Leighton/G.K. Chesterton
- Bethlehem Down - Peter Warlock. arr. D. Hill
- Long, long ago - Herbert Howells/John Buxton
- Venite, gaudete! - Adrian Peacock
- Lux aurumque - Eric Whitacre
- Ex Maria Virgine: VIII. Rocking - John Tavener
- Adam Lay Ybounden - Matthew Martin. Arr. Stuart Nicholson
- Ding Dong! Merrily on High - arr. S. Nicholson for choir and organ
- O Come, a ye faithful - arr. D. Hill for choir and organ
Cambridge Chorale under Owain Park Released "The Very Best Time of the Year"
Ensemble Description:
Composers throughout the centuries have been captivated by the mystery and wonder of the festive season. Some of the most enchanting melodies appear at Christmas, all filled with a sense of anticipation and promise.
This album brings together some of our favourite seasonal pieces: from renaissance composers including Byrd and Morales, through to the 21st century with Bob Chilcott and Sally Beamish. As singers, we cherish this music, and know that we are lucky to be custodians of such a treasure trove. We hope this collection brings listeners the same joy we had while performing it – during the very best time of year.
- Laetentur coeli - William Byrd
- To Bethlem did they go - Howard Skempton
- O magnum mysterium - Cristobal de Morales
- Adam lay ybounden - Owain Park
- Jingle Bells - James Lord Pierport, Arr. Ben Parry
- A tender shoot - Karensa Briggs
- Gabriel's Message - Jim Clements
- O little one sweet - J.S. Bach
- The Holy Child - Owain Park
- A winter bloom - Owain Park
- A Great and Mighty Wonder - M. Praetorius, arr. Erling Pederson
- Today the Virgin - John Tavener
- Here is the little door - Owain Park
- In the stillness - Sally Beamish
- the Pear Three Carol - Bob Chilcott
- Away in a manger - arr. Reginald Jacquez
- Balulalow - Francis Pott
- I wonder as I wander - Owain Park
- Nesciens mater - Jean Mouton
- Silent Night - Franz Gruber, arr. Simon Morley
- Bethlehem down - Peter Warlock
- The Very Best time of the Year - John Rutter, arr. Owain Park
“A Very Dreyfoos Christmas” is a delightful and sublime collection of Christmas & Holiday Music by the DSOA Singers & Singers Ensemble”
“A pleasing combination of exceptional talent, superior performance, and state-of-the-art sound engineering make this album a collectible treasure for generations to come.”
The (DSOA) Dreyfoos School of the Arts Singers & Singers Ensemble
The Vocal Department of Dreyfoos School of the Arts (DSOA) is comprised of several chorus ensembles. Featured in this album are the DSOA Singers and the auditioned DSOA Singer’s Ensemble. These are groups of students selected for their superior performing and sight-reading ability. Dreyfoos School of the Arts is an all-arts public magnet school in Palm Beach County, Florida.
Ken Taylor, Director of Choral Studies
Ken Taylor is Director of Choral Studies at the Dreyfoos School of the Arts. This year he was named the 2023 winner of the Randolph A. Frank Prize for the Performing Arts.
Evan Schultz, Recording Engineer
Evan Schultz, a former recording engineer at the Juilliard School, New York, has recorded and mastered for artists and ensembles from several national symphonies. His work has been broadcast on American Public Media’s “Performance Today” reaching 1.6 million weekly listeners.
Arnfield Cudal, Composer & Executive Producer
Dr. Arnfield Cudal is Executive Producer of HARK Music Publications, a ministry of HARK Ministries Inc., a Florida non-profit organization which publishes books, music, and various Christian resources serving educators, ministers, students, and audiences worldwide.
A Winter Breviary, St. Martins's Voices, Andrew Earis
In this, their debut recording with Resonus Classics, St Martin's Voices presents a selection of contemporary choral works for the Christmas season. With settings of poetry from the fifteenth century to the present day, these new carols explore themes of winter snowscapes, the anticipation and contemplation of Advent, the Christmas story as seen by the women at its heart, and the joy of coming in from the cold to celebrate together.
In a programme made entirely of premiere recordings, this album features works by Cecilia McDowall, Roderick Williams and Lucy Walker, among others. The album also boasts a major new carol suite by Bob Chilcott, with libretto by Georgia Way entitled Mary, Mother, which was premiered by the ensemble in 2022.
Many will have heard the Cathedral’s accomplished choir in their worldwide television broadcast in the presence of King Charles and Queen Camilla following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022.
This recording, like others in this series takes us on a journey through the church’s year from Advent to All Saints, reflecting the varied musical moods of each season. This selection of music mainly features works from the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, including recent compositions by Bob Chilcott, Jonathan Dove, and Will Todd.
The choir is accompanied on the new Nicholson organ, installed in 2010 – the largest entirely new instrument built in a British cathedral by a British organ builder since the 1960s. Two large-scale organ solos are played by Assistant Organist, Aaron Shilson, and Director of Music, Stephen Moore, and showcasing the full tonal and dynamic range of this impressive instrument.
The music department of Llandaff Cathedral is a busy and productive one with seven choral services in a typical week. The present incarnation of the Cathedral Choirs began in 1880 when Dean of Llandaff, Henry Vaughan, founded the Cathedral School to educate the Boy Choristers.
The Girl Choristers were established separately by the Cathedral School in 1996 and, until 2021, had their own director who was a member of staff there. In an historic change, the girls were formally welcomed into the Cathedral music department in 2021 and, from September 2022, parity of opportunity was realised for girls and boys. The choristers all attend the Cathedral School and take an equal share of weekly duties, usually – as on this recording – singing independently of one another and occasionally together.
Editor's Note: Although not a Christmas album, it does contain some seasonal tracks including, for Advent, “Creator of the stars of night” arranged by John Scott and “Nova! Nova!” by Bob Chilcott; for Christmas, Gustav Holst’s “In the bleak mid-winter” arranged by Mack Wilbeg; for Epiphany, “Epiphanie” by Gaston Litaize; for the Baptism of Christ, “Don to the river” arranged by Philip Lawson; and for Candelmas, “Vast ocean of light” by Jonathn Dove.
https://www.regent-records.co.uk/product/a-year-at-llandaff/
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