Christmas in the Renaissance
A Working List of Recordings
Complied by R. Rojas
Updated Jan. 10, 2025
Please not the Renaissance did not start on a specific date or year but was a gradual happening. Most scholar hold that the renaissance in art proceeded the renaissance in music by 100 years. Some recordings on this list may mix the Medieval with the Renaissance, and even at times with the Baroque. Some ensemble's intent was just to make an early music recording, so mixing eras. "Early music" which is another problematic term, but most agree tends to describe music before 1700.
2025
Christmas music from Flanders. Who doesn't know them, Christmas hits like "Nu zijt wellekome" (Now you are welcome) or "Hoe leit dit kindeken" (How does this child lie?). Centuries-old songs, anchored in our collective memory, and still very much alive. Although Christmas is a Christian holiday, these songs are not liturgical church music, but originated in the atmosphere of private devotion—in living rooms and monasteries rather than churches. Many medieval and early modern song manuscripts and hymn books circulated in bourgeois and urban environments.
1. Veni Redemptor Gentium
Composer: Erik Van Nevel, Upon The Chant
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
2. Maria Die Soude Naer Bethlehem Gaen
Composer: Willem Ceuleers
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
3. Nu Sijt Wellekome
Composer: Piet Stryckers
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
4. O Salich Heylich Bethleem
Composer: Piet Stryckers
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
5. Laet Ons Met Herten Reine
Composer: Guilelmus Messaus
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
6. Stella Quam Viderunt Magi À 6
Composer: Johannes Le Febure
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
7. Videntes Stellam
Composer: Orlandus Lassus
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
8. Er Is Een Kindeke Gheboren
Composer: Piet Stryckers
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
9. Een Seraphinsche Tonghe
Composer: Piet Stryckers
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
10. O Nacht, O Blyde Nacht
Composer: Piet Stryckers
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
11. In ‘T Stalleken Van Bethlehem
Composer: Piet Stryckers
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
12. Hoe Leit Dit Kindeken
Composer: Piet Stryckers
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
13. O Kersnacht, Schooner Dan De Daegen
Composer: Piet Stryckers, Willem Ceuleers, Erik Van Nevel
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
14. Sarabande – Dulcedo Jesu & Ballo
Composer: Franciscus Munninckx
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
15. Quoniam Tus Solus Sanctus
Composer: Charles-Joseph Van Helmont
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
16. O Herders, Laet U Bocxkens En Schaepen
Composer: Willem Ceuleers
Artist(s): Currende, Erik Van Nevel
New York-based early music ensemble Concordian Dawn presents Veni Redemptor Gentium, a joyful and introspective celebration of the Christmas season centred around songs from the 13th – 15th centuries, plus two world-premiere recordings of works by Australian-born composer David Yardley.
1. This Holy Tym Oure Lord Was Born
Kennedy, Hedberg (voice and percussion), Karageorgiou, Thompson (voice and percussion), McCargar (voice and percussion), Mor (recorder and percussion), Seligmann (vielle)
2. Isaiah and Sybil’s Prophecies
McCargar (voice), Thompson (harp), Mor (ney), Seligmann (vielle), Evans, Karageorgiou
3. Gabriel fram Heven King
Karageorgiou, Thompson (voice), McCargar (voice)
4. Veni, redemptor gentium
Kennedy, Hedberg (voice), Thompson (voice), McCargar (voice)
5. Kuando el rey Nimrod
Mor (voice and percussion), Seligmann (vielle), Hedberg (voice and percussion), Thompson (voice and percussion), McCargar (percussion)
6. Alma redemptoris mater
McCargar (voice)
7. Ave, regina caelorum/Alma redemptoris mater
Evans, Hedberg (voice), Mor (recorder), Thompson (harp)
8. Orientis partibus
Mor (recorder), Seligmann (vielle), Thompson (harp), McCargar (percussion)
9. Alle psallite cum luya
Karageorgiou, Thompson (voice), McCargar (voice), Seligmann (percussion), Mor (percussion)
10. Psallite regi glorie: Thompson (voice and harp)
11. Hail Mary, full of grace
Karageorgiou, Thompson (voice), McCargar (voice)
12. Personent Hodie
Seligmann (vielle), Thompson (harp), Mor (percussion)
13. Beata viscera
Kennedy (voice), Seligmann (vielle)
14. Vox Clamantis in Deserto
Evans, Hedberg (voice), Thompson (voice), McCargar (voice), Seligmann (vielle)
15. Dum medium silentium
McCargar (voice), Karageorgiou, Thompson (voice)
16. Magnificat
Evans, Thompson (voice), McCargar (voice)
17. Now make we mirthe all and sum
Evans, Karageorgiou
18. Quem pastores laudavere
Mor (recorder), Seligmann (vielle), Thompson (harp), McCargar (percussion)
19. Verbum caro factum est
Evans, Hedberg (voice), Thompson (voice)
20. Ther is no rose of swych vertu
Kennedy, Hedberg (voice), Karageorgiou (voice), Mor (recorder), Seligmann (vielle), Thompson (harp)
21. In Adventu Domini
Karageorgiou, Thompson (voice), McCargar (voice)
22. Be mery, be mery
Evans, Hedberg (voice), Karageorgiou, Mor (recorder), Seligmann (vielle), Thompson (harp)
https://www.avie-records.com/releases/veni-redemptor-gentium/
Apollo Ensemble releases "Weihnachten in the 17th Century"
Weihnachten in the 17th century
German Christmas Music
Michael Praetorius (1571-1621)
1) Nun komm der Heiden Heiland
Matthias Weckmann (1616-1674)
2) Dialogus: Gegrüsset seist du, Holdselige
Vincent Lübeck (1654-1740)
3) Wilkommen, süsser Bräutigam
Christoph Bernard (1628-1692)
4) Fürchtet euch nicht
Michael Praetorius
5) Von Himmel hoch da komm ich her
Heinrich Schmelzer (c1620-1680)
6) Venite ocius! transeamusad Bethlehem
Dietrich Buxtehude 1637-1707)
7) Salve Jesu, patris gnate BuxWV 94
8) Herr nun lässt du deinen Diener BuxWV 37
9) In dulci jubilo BuxWV 52
Apollo Ensemble
Agnes van Laar, Janneke Stoute soprano
Michiel Meijer bass
David Rabinovich, Daphne Oltheten violin
Robert de Bree, Emma Huijsser recorder
Annemarie Kosten-Dür, Agnieszka Papierska viola
Cassandra Luckhardt viola da gamba
Thomas Oltheten dulcian
Marion Boshuizen organ
https://apollo-ensemble.nl/recording/weihnachtenin-the-17th-century/
2024
At the end of 2023, Currende, conducted by Erik Van Nevel, presented a series of Christmas concerts titled "Ein Stille Nacht in Österreich" (A Still Night in Austria), a live recording of which has now been released on CD. The CD features 17 beautiful pieces in the Christmas spirit by ten composers who were all active in Austria.
1. Fugue In G
Composer: Gottlieb Muffat
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
2. Stellam Quam Viderunt Magi, Motet À 7
Composer: Philippus De Monte
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
3. Puer Natus Est, Motet À 6
Composer: Jacob Regnart
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
4. Ouverture In G, K 355
Composer: Johann Joseph Fux
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
5. Heiligste Nacht, Mh 461
Composer: Johann Michael Haydn
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
6. Menuetto, Aus ‘Eine Kleine Nachtmusik’
Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
7. Ach Mein Seel, Fang An Zu Singen, Adventlied Aus Vorarlberg
Composer: Arr. Erik Van Nevel
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
8. Gloria In Excelsis, Ex Missa Non Sine Quare
Composer: Johann Caspar Kerll
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
9. Hör Nachbar, Ach Sag Mir, Pastorelle/Cantilena Pro Adventu
Composer: Joseph Haydn
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
10. Canon Johann, A 2 Viole Di Gamba E Continuo
Composer: Johann Joseph Fux [
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
11. Resonet In Laudibus À 5, Weihnachtslied
Composer: Jacobus Gallus
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
12. Dulce Somnium, Ex Concerto Iv
Composer: Georg Muffat
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
13. Der Heiland Ist Geboren, Volkslied Aus Salzkammergut
Composer: Arr. Erik Van Nevel
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
14. Leise Rieselt Der Schnee, Stille Nacht, Weihnachtslied Aus Salzburgerland
Composer: Melodie: Franz Gruber Arr. Erik Van Nevel
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
15. Misericordias Domini, Lobgesang Kv 222 (205*)
Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
16. O Magnum Mysterium, Motetto Per Il Festo Di Natale Del Signor Nostro
Composer: Frantiçek Tuma
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
17. Alleluia, Ex Motet Lauda Anima Mea
Composer: Antonio Caldara
Artist(s): Currende, Erik van Nevel
Etecetera Records
https://www.etcetera-records.com/product/ein-stille-in-nacht-in-osterreich-currende-erik-van-nevel/
#8 on the Billboard Traditional Classical Albums chart, Week of Dec. 17
1. O clavis David
2. Factor orbis
3. O virgo virginum 01:11
4. O virgo virginum 06:39
5. Conditor alme siderum 03:19
6. Ave Maria gratia dei plena 01:54
7. O admirabile commercium / Verbum caro factum est 07:58
8. Letabundus 05:37
9. Gloria Spiritus et alme
10. Nato canunt omnia
11. La plus belle et doulce figure 03:50
12.Dieu vous doinst bon jour et demy 02:37
13. Auxce bon youre delabonestren 01:29
14. Amours servir et honnourer 02:51
15. Dame excellent ou sont bonté, scavoir 04:27
16. Ce jour de l’an qui maint doist estrenier 03:50
2. Factor orbis
3. O virgo virginum 01:11
4. O virgo virginum 06:39
5. Conditor alme siderum 03:19
6. Ave Maria gratia dei plena 01:54
7. O admirabile commercium / Verbum caro factum est 07:58
8. Letabundus 05:37
9. Gloria Spiritus et alme
10. Nato canunt omnia
11. La plus belle et doulce figure 03:50
12.Dieu vous doinst bon jour et demy 02:37
13. Auxce bon youre delabonestren 01:29
14. Amours servir et honnourer 02:51
15. Dame excellent ou sont bonté, scavoir 04:27
16. Ce jour de l’an qui maint doist estrenier 03:50
2023
Jacques Arcadelt's Missa Noe Noe presented in Ridercar Recording by Capella Mediterranea
Editor's Note: We missed this one. This was released in 2023. Description below is the label's own.
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.
Leonardo Garcia Alarcon chose the Missa Noe Noe, which is presented here in the context of the Christmas liturgy. We have also included motets not only by Arcadelt but also by Josquin Desprez, as he was the great model for musicians of his generation.
The recording ends resoundingly with Josquin’s imposing "Benedicta es coelorum regina" for six voices, although in an expanded version for twelve voices by Jean Guyot de Châtelet (1512 – 1588): another Walloon composer to be discovered!
https://outhere-music.com/en/albums/arcadelt-missa-noe-noe
A recent recording of the Flanders Boys Choir of unreleased Cantiones Natalitiae, Christmas music by Flemish chapel masters from the 17th century..
This in collaboration with the Study Centre for Flemish Music. You can also go to the latter for the scores that accompany this music. An assignment that Piet Stryckers has worked on for years.
https://www.flandersboyschoir.org/index.php/nl/
Deutsche Grammophon gifts Monteverdi's Christmas Vespers
1 Vespro Della Beata Vergine-Deus in Adiutorium (Chant) / Domine Ad Adiuvandum (Sanctissimae Virgini Missa Senis Vocibus)
2 Intonatione Del Primo Tono (Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
3 Psalm 109: Dixit Dominus II (A 8 Voci Concertato Con Gli Stessi Istromenti Del Primo Et Nel Medesimo Modo Con 2 Violini E 4 Viole O Tromboni. Selva Morale E Spirituale)
4 O Felix, O Lucidissima Nox (Concerto in Loco Antiphonae. Motetto a Due Voci)
5 Intonatione Dell'undicesimo Tono (Trasportata Alla Quarta Bassa. Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
6 Psalm 110: Confitebor Tibi, Domine III (Alla Francese) (A 5 Voci Qual Si Può Concertare Si Piacerà Con Quattro Viole Da Brazzo Lasciando la Parte Del Soprano Alla Voce Sola Selva Morale E Spirituale)
7 Sonata a 8 Con Quattro Soprani (Sonata in Loco Antiphonae. Compositioni Armoniche Op. 3)
8 Intonatione Del Quinto Tono (Trasportata Alla Quarta Bassa. Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
9 Psalm 111: Beatus Vir I (A 6 Voci Concertato Con Due Violini & Tre Viole Da Brazzo Ovvero 3 Tromboni Quali Anco Si Ponno Lasciare. Selva Morale E Spirituale)
10 O Intemerata (Concerto in Loco Antiphonae, Motetto a Due Voci Il Secondo Libro de Motetti)
Disc: 2
1 Intonatione Del Secondo Tono (Trasportata Alla Quinta Alta. Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
2 Psalm 112: Laudate Pueri II (A 5 Voci. Selva Morale E Spirituale)
3 Venite, Sitientes, Ad Aquas Domini (Concerto in Loco Antiphonae. Seconda Raccolta de Sacri Canti)
4 Intonatione Del Ottavo Tono (Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
5 Psalm 116: Laudate Dominum I (A 5 Voci Concertato Con Due Violini Et Un Choro a Quattro Voci Qual Portasi E Cantare E Sonare Con Quattro Viole O Tromboni Et Anco Lasciare Se Acadesse Il Bisogno. Selva Morale E Spirituale)
6 Sonata XVIII a 14 (Sonata in Loco Antiphonae. Canzoni E Sonate)
7 Selva Morale E Spirituale-Hymnus: Christe Redemptor Omnium
8 Hodie Christus Natus Est (Antifona Al Magnificat (MS. at Kremsmünster)
9 Intonatione Del Nono Tono (Trasportata Alla Quinta Bassa. Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
10 Magnificat I (A 8 Voci & Due Violini & Quattro Viole Ovvero Quattro Tromboni Quali in Accidente Si Ponno Lasciare Selva Morale E Spirituale)
11 Intonatione Del Decimo Tono (Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
12 Cantate Domino a 6 (Libro Primo de Motetti)
The WESER-RENAISSANCE ensemble had two goals in mind in it's concert series "Breslau - A City in the Heart of Europe": the first was to offer musical enjoyment and the second was to remember an old cultural environment that had been forgotten for many decades.
2019
The Spanish 'Golden Age' witnessed an astonishing musical flowering, fully worthy of the nation's new-found preeminence on the world stage.
A medieval Christmas: Songs from the Netherlands, Trigon Ensemble
On this album Trigon sings Christmas carols from 15th and 16th century manuscripts of the Modern Devotion movement. These include manuscripts from a convent near Utrecht (Berlin 190), one from the former Soeterbeeck convent, the Tongeren Manuscript and a manuscript from Zwolle / the IJssel Valley. Trigon also sings two songs found in a manuscript from the ‘rondebegynhof ’, the encircled Beguinage in Amsterdam, dating from the start of the 17th century.
Tracklist
---------
01. Ave celestis regina a2 (Utrecht, ca. 1480)
02. Ons is gheboren nu ter tijt a2 (Utrecht)
03. Septem gaudia beate Marie: Gaude virgo a1(Utrecht)
04. Ave maris stella a2 (Utrecht)
05. Laet ons mit hoegher vrolicheit a1 (Utrecht)
06. Ave maris stella a2 (Begijnhof Amsterdam, after 1609)
07. Ave Maria, O suijver maecht a2 (Begijnhof Amsterdam)
08. Iubilemus singuli a3 (IJsselvallei / Zwolle)
09. O suver maecht van Ysrahel a1 (Utrecht)
10. Nicolai solempnia a3 (Utrecht)
11. Het viel een hemels dauwe a2 (Soeterbeeck)
12. Een kindekijn is ons gheboren / Die coninghen uut orienten a1 (Utrecht)
13. Ad festum leticie a2 (Soeterbeeck)
14. Laet ons mit hartzen reyne / Ons is een kint gheboren a1 (Utrecht)
15. Iubilus Bernardi: Ihesu dulcis memoria a2 (Utrecht)
16. O maiestas deica a3 (Utrecht)
17. Regi psallens hec contio a2 (Utrecht)
18. Universalis ecclesia a3 (Utrecht)
19. Totus mundus sit iocundus a2 (Utrecht)
20. In dulci iublio a2 (Tongeren)
Music for the people could have been the motto for 17th-century German composer Michael Praetorius. He adhered to the ideals of Protestant pioneer Martin Luther – of whom his father was a disciple – that music, like religion, should be open and free to all. Praetorius was an extraordinarily versatile composer and, along with Bach, was one of the greatest composers of Protestant church music in Germany. With his music, he strived to bring together people of all walks of life – professional singers, congregations, villagers and children alike.
Like the Vespers settings in the 17th century – most notably the Vespers of 1610 by Monteverdi, who inspired Praetorius – this Christmas Vespers is an assemblage of works by Praetorius that Apollo’s Fire’s founder / director Jeanette Sorrell has compiled. It highlights his virtuosic vocal and instrumental writing and includes as interludes his popular carol settings, O Morning Star and Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming.
MICHAEL PRAETORIUS (1571–1621)
PART 1
AWAITING THE MESSIAH: A LUTHERAN ADVENT SERVICE
1. PROCESSIONAL: Nun Komm der Heiden Heiland (3:15)
Chorale melody by Martin Luther, arrangement/English adaptation Sorrell
Scott Mello & Kirsten Sollek cantors
2. Nun Komm der Heiden Heiland (5:09)
Polyphonic setting from Polyhymnia caduceatrix (PC)
3. HYMN: Wachet Auf! From PC (2:47)
Jolle Greenleaf, Kirsten Sollek, Ryan Turner, Paul Shipper
4. CAROL: Puer Natus in Bethlehem, from PC (4:49)
5. OFFERTORY: Ach, Mein Herre, from PC (7:42)
Nell Snaidas, Jolle Greenleaf, Sandra Simon
6. CREDO: Wir glauben all (5:35)
Melody by Martin Luther, harmonized setting from Musica Sionae (MS)
Nell Snaidas, Jolle Greenleaf, Sandra Simon
7. Dances from Terpsichore (4:26)
Bransle de Poictu – Gaillarde – Bransle gay – Bransle simple – Bransle double
8. GLORIA: Glori sei Gott, from PC (6:57)
A VESPERS SERVICE FOR CHRISTMAS DAY
9. HYMN: Queen Pastores, from Puericinium (3:13)
Abigail Clark, Allison Paetz, Allison Miller, Patrick Conklin
10. ANTIPHON: Christum wir sollen loben (plainchant) (0:49)
Chorale melody by Martin Luther
11. MAGNIFICAT, Parts I & II, from PC (5:57)
12. CAROL: O Morning Star, from PC (2:57)
Abigail Clark & Madeline Apple Healey
13.MAGNIFICAT, Parts III & IV (7:32)
14. CAROL: Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming, from MS (1:40)
15. Our Father in Heaven, from MS (1:02)
16. BENEDICTION: Benedicamus aeterno Regi, from Eulogodia Sionia I (1611) (0:49)
Paul Shipper
17. ORGAN VOLUNTARY: Nun lob mein Seel, from MS (2:33)
Michael Sponseller, organ
18. CLOSING HYMN: (7:14)
In dulci jubilo / Good Christian Friends, Rejoice! From PC
Verse 1: Madeline Apple Headley, Jolle Greenleaf, Scott Mello
Verse 4: Peter Simon, Sandra Simon, Jolle Greenleaf
Total time: 74:40
Recorded December 9 – 13, 2005, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Cleveland Heights, OH
Producer: Susan Napodano DelGiorno
Recording Engineer: Thomas Knab
Mixing Thomas Knab and Silas Brown
Mastering: Thomas Knab
Editor's Note: If you know the tracks on this album, please contact us at christmascarolblog@gmail.com.
Martin Baker's recordings of Palestrina with Westminster Cathedral Choir have been highly praised across the world. This album features a sumptuous recording of works dedicated to the festival of Christmas, the main work being the stunning Missa Hodie Christus natus est - one of Palestrina's most popular works. This is music of great devotional beauty, all sung with Westminster Cathedral Choir's customary finesse and atmospheric reverence.
A Christmas programme with a difference: Rory McCleery and his acclaimed consort echo the shepherds’ noels through a motet by Jean Mouton which, astonishingly, remained in the repertoire of the Sistine Chapel for over a hundred years after its composition around 1515.
So famous already by the middle of the century, when Cristóbal de Morales was engaged as a singer in the papal chapel, it was inevitable that Mouton’s motet – by the compositional precepts of the time – should form the basis for a mass by Morales; and, later still, for a new motet to the same text by Annibale Stabile. A world premiere recording of the latter work crowns this unique programme, drawn from new performing editions by McCleery himself.
1 Quaeramus Cum Pastoribus
2 Kyrie
3 Gloria
4 Puer Natus Est Nobis
5 Credo
6 Noe, Noe, Noe, Psallite Noe
7 Sanctus & Benedictus
8 Pastores Dicite, Quidnam Vidistis?
9 Agnus Dei
10 Quaeramus Cum Pastoribus
Sing Thee Nowell
2014 | Hybrid SACD – DSD
Nowell, Nowel, Noel - on their new release, Sing thee Nowell, New York Polyphony sings of, and to, the birth of Christ in a typically sophisticated programme which fuses the ancient with the modern into a seamless whole.
Seven centuries of Christmas passes before the listener with new works composed for these performers by Michael McGlynn, Andrew Smith and John Scott alongside traditional medieval and Renaissance carols and motets by Clemens 'non Papa', Philippe Verdelot and Tomás Luis de Victoria.
The wide-ranging sequence is anchored by Richard Rodney Bennett's Five Carols, in which the sopranos Sarah Brailey and Elizabeth Baber Weaver join in celebrating 'the joyful birth' and in praising 'Mary mild', that 'maiden fair and wise'. The wondrous events related to the Christmas story and the joy they bring to mankind naturally dominate, but intimations of Christ's death on the cross also surface in the course of the disc, as in Peter Warlock's Bethlehem Down: 'they will clothe him in grave-sheets, myrrh for embalming, and wood for a crown.'
Formed in 2006, New York Polyphony has rapidly emerged as one of the leading vocal chamber ensembles, applying a distinctly modern touch to repertoire that ranges from austere medieval melodies to cutting-edge contemporary compositions. Two previous recordings for BIS have received critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination for the 2013 release Times go by Turns, interleaving masses by Byrd and Tallis with works from the 21st century.
Christmas with the Shepherds by Marian Consort, Rory McCleery and Various (2014)
Delphian presents Christmas with the Shepherds - a unique album from Rory McCleery and The Marian Consort that illuminates a little-known and fascinating musical connection. Jean Mouton's 1515 motet Quaeramus cum pastoribus was hugely popular with the public and fellow composers alike. This disc features works that were inspired by this hit tune, including a mass by Cristobal de Morales and the world premiere recording of a motet to the same text by Annibale Stabile.
Gramophone Record of the Year winners The Cardinall's Musick continue their exploration of Tallis's sacred music. These recordings not only showcase the greatest repertoire of the English Renaissance in dazzling performances, but also illustrate the complex historical and political background of the works and their genesis. This volume presents Tallis's extraordinary seven-voice mass, Missa Puer natus est nobis, which dates from the Catholic reign of Mary I. Other works recorded here include what is possibly Tallis's earliest work, the four-part Latin Magnificat, and the gloriously splendid Videte miraculum, a masterpiece with a rich palette of colors, enhanced by suave melodic writing with a slow-moving harmonic pulse tinged with heart-achingly gorgeous cadences.
1 Salvator Mundi, Domine [4'16]
2 Plainsong Puer Natus Est Nobis [4'22]
3 Missa Puer Natus Est Nobis Gloria [9'18]
4 Missa Puer Natus Est Nobis Sanctus and Benedictus [7'51]
5 Missa Puer Natus Est Nobis Agnus Dei [7'48]
6 Quod Chorus Vatum [4'26]
7 Benedictus [6'01]
8 Magnificat a 4 [10'33]
9 Audivi Vocem de Caelo [3'44]
10 Videte Miraculum [9'16]
Renaissance Vocal Music for the festive season by Morales, Victoria, Guerrero, Fernandez, Padilla et al, originally issued in 2003, now budget price. La Colombina at the time comprised the now household names of Maria Cristina Kiehr, Claudio Cavina, Josep Benet and Josep Cabré.
Christophorus
Since the mid-19th century, the Medieval carol Orientis partibus has been popularly known as "The Song of the Ass." It tells the story of the donkey on which Mary rode into Bethlehem and was apparently sung as part of the Epiphany celebrations at Beauvais, France, from the Middle Ages until at least the 17th century.
A very special CD for Christmas is presented by Flanders Recorder Quartet together with the young Belgian vocal ensemble Encantar and soprano Cecile Kempenaers: Christmas music from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Traditional melodies as well as Gregorian chant, consort songs, and chorales: this early Christmas music rediates a lot of character and color, cheerfulness and contemplation.
The large recorders, practically a “living organ,” are the perfect partners for the singers. To be heard on this CD is the world's largest recorder, a 3-meter-long sub-contrabass.
This is the Flanders Recorder Quartet's fifth production for AEOLUS, and the CD debut of the four remarkable young singers of Encantar.
Anonymous Ave stella matutina
Samuel Scheidt Gelobet seist Du, Jesu Christ
Clemens non Papa Descendit angelus Domini
Anonymous Lullay, lullay
Tomás Luis de Victoria O Regem coeli
Anonymous Born is the Babe
Anonymous Sweet was the Song
Anonymous Sweet was the Song
Michael Praetorius Summo parenti gloria
Michael Praetorius Hymnus in adventu Domini
Jacob Praetorius Christum wir sollen loben
Lambert de Sayve Quem vidistis pastores
Clemens non Papa Gabriel angelus
Alexander Agricola Magnificat
Anonymous Nowel, nowel
Celebrate the fourth centenary of the composer's death with his music for liturgies of the Advent and Epiphany. Capella de Ministrers will be on tour in the US during October 2011.
1 Ave Maria, Motet for 4 Voices
2 O Regem Coeli, Motet for 4 Voices
3 Congratulamini Mihi, Motet for 6 Voices
4 Alma Redemptoris Mater, Antiphon for 5 Voices
5 Quam Pulchri Sunt Gressus Tui, Motet for 4 Voices
6 Magi Viderunt Stellam, Motet for 4 Voices
7 Ne Timeas, Maria (In Annuntiatione Benissimae Mariae), Motet for 4 Voices
8 Ecce Dominus Veniet, Motet for 5 Voices
9 Quem Vidistis, Pastores, Motet for 6 Voices
10 Hostis Herodes Impie, Hymn for 4 Voices
11 O Magnum Mysterium, Motet for 4 Voices
12 Gaude, Maria Virgo, Motet for 5 Voices
13 Ave Maria, Gratia Plena, Motet for 8 Voices & Organ
This beautiful CD contains 22 tracks, all with a Christmas theme, and all datable to when William Shakespeare was alive (1564-1616).
Early music played on reproduction instruments interspersed with period readings, including pieces by Campion, Holbourne, Lawes and Byrd.
Includes a booklet with lyrics and sources.
Track Listing:
1.All you that love good fellows/Carol for Innocent's Day (In sad and ashy weeds)/Hey for Christmas (Dargasons)
2."Rorate coeli" to the tune of Beggar Boy
3.Now Winter nights enlarge [Campion]
4.December (reading)
5."Jurie cam to Jerusalem" to the tune of Dulcina
6.Balulalow (ane sang of the birth of Christ)
7.Lully Lullay/Remember thou, O man
8.Sweet was the song
9.O than the fairest day (reading)/As it fell on a holie eve [Holbourne]
10.New Prince, New Pomp
11.All Sons of Adam
12.Oyle of Barley (Stingo)
13.Beat up a drum for Christmas reigns
14.St. Stephen's Day Carol (Robin)/Christmas is my Name (Now the Spring is come)
15.Tis Christmas Now [Lawes]
16.Christmas, his Masque (reading)
17.The New Year's Gift
18.Coventry Carol
19.The star song (reading)/New-yeers Gift [Holbourne]
20.Twelfe Night, or King and Queene
21.Adorna Thalamum tuum [Byrd]
22.In praise of Christmas (To drive the cold winter away),
https://test-dhm.sonyclassical.de/alben/releases-details/wie-schon-leuchtet-der-morgenstern
Epiphany - from the Greek meaning "manifestation" or "appearance" - is the traditional Christian feast that celebrates the revelation of God the Son as a human being in Jesus.
https://www.schola-antiqua.org/albums
DISC 1
1. Greeting
2. In Thee is Gladness
3. Magnificat noni toni, from Tabulatura Nova
4. Vetrate di Chiesa
5. Unexpected and Mysterious
6. Litany: Laudes Creaturum
7. Reading: Joseph Brodsky (1940-1996) 8. Hodie aperuit (III from The Hildegard Motets)
9. Ave Maria
10. The Spheres (from Sunrise Mass)
11. People Look East
12. Readings: Gospel of John and Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179)
13. Gloria
14. O beatum et sacrosanctum diem
15. Sonata pian'e forte
16. A Child is Born
17. In Thee Is Gladness
DISC 2
1. Reading: John Donne (1572-1631)
2. Vetrate di chiesa
3. Lullaby Carol (2005)
4. With Crowded Lamps (from Lumen Christi)
5. Sing We Now of Christmas
6. Carol of the Magi
7. The First Nowell
8. Reading: St. Fancis of Assisi
9. Riu, Riu, Chiu
10. Illumina le tenebre (Prayer before the Crucifix)
11. Prayer of Saint Frances
12. Sending Prayers
13. O Come, All Ye Faithful
1 Work(S): Deus in Adiutorium (PS. 70) / Qui Me Confessus Fuerit (Ant. 1)
2 Dixit Dominus (Psalm 110), for Chorus & Ensemble
3 Sonata Vespertina a 8
4 Qui Sequitur Me, Antiphon
5 Confitebor (Psalm 111), for Chorus & Ensemble
6 Sonata a 5, 4/70, a 519
7 Qui Mihi Ministrat, Antiphon
8 Beatus Vir (Psalm 112), for Chorus & Ensemble
9 Sonata Laetitiae for 2 Violins & 3 Violas, 4/11, a 471
10 Si Quis Mihi Ministraverit, Antiphon
11 Laudate Pueri (Psalm 113), for Chorus & Ensemble
12 Sonata a 7, 4/69, a 518
13 Volo, Pater, Antiphon
14 Laudate Dominum (Psalm 117), for Chorus & Ensemble
15 Sonata a 5, 4/224, a 640
16 Beatus Vir Qui Suffert, Lectio (James 1:12)
17 Deus Tuorum Militum, Hymn in Mode 8 (Liber Usualis No. 1126)
18 Justus Ut Palma Florebit, Versiculum & Responsory
19 Iste Sanctus, Antiphon Before the Magnificat
20 Magnificat, for Chorus & Ensemble (Canticum BVM)
21 Sonata S. Petri Et Pauli, for Trumpet, 3 Trombones, Violin & 3 Violas, 4/10, a 470
22 Dominus Vobiscum... Deus, Qui Beatum Wenceslaum, Prayer
23 Salve Regina
24 Omnipotens Sempiterne Deus, Oratio
Label: Supraphon
Stile Antico's newest program centers on Thomas Tallis's magnificent seven-part Christmas Mass, based on the festive plainchant Puer natus est ("A boy is born")
1 Videte Miraculum - Thomas Tallis
2 Audivi Vocem de Caelo - John Taverner
3 Rorate Caeli Desuper (Gradualia I, 1605) - William Byrd
4 Gloria (Missa Puer Natus Est) - Tallis
5 Tollite Portas (Gradualia I) - Byrd
6 Sanctus & Benedictus (Missa Puer Natus Est) - Tallis
7 Ave Maria (Gradualia I) - Byrd
8 Agnus Dei (Missa Puer Natus Est) - Tallis
9 Ecce Virgo Concipiet (Gradualia I) - Byrd
10 Magnificat - Robert White
11 Puer Natus Est - Plainchant
12 Verbum Caro - John Sheppard
A historically accurate, vivid, and listenable collection of
Christmas songs from the Renaissance to modern times sung by a famous Dutch vocal quintet.
1 Gloria in Cielo E Pace in Terra
2 O Jes㺠Dolce
3 Niã±O Dios D'amor Herido
4 Pastores, Si Nos Queries
5 Oyd, Oyd, Una Cosa Divina
6 Virgen Sancta
7 A Un Niã±O Llorando
8 A Virgin Most Pure
9 Ding Dong! Merrily on High
10 It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
11 King Jesus Hath a Garden
12 God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
13 Past Three a Clock
14 A Venezuelan Christmas Carol
15 O Kerstnacht, Schooner Dan de Dagen
16 Laat Ons Met Harten Reine
17 O Herders, Laat Uw Bokken en Schapen
18 Het Komet Een Schip Geladen
19 O Little Town of Bethlehem
20 Away in a Manger
21 Celebrate This Holy One
22 Follow That Star
23 The Christmas Song
24 Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Puer Natus est by Concerto Palatino, Studio de musique ancienne de Montréal, Christopher Jackson
1 Weihnachtshistorie: Intro Oder Eingang
2 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Es Begab Sich Aber Zu Derselbigen Zeit
3 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium I: Der Engel Zu Dem Hirten Auf Dem Felde
4 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Alsbald War Da Bei Dem Engel
5 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium II: Die Menge Der Engel
6 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Da Die Engel Von Ihnen Gen Himmel Fuhren
7 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium IV III: Die Hirten Auf Dem Felde
8 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Sie Kamen Eilend
9 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium IV: Die Weisen Aus Morgenlande
10 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Da Das Der Konig Herodes Horete
11 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium V: Hohepriester Und Schriftgelehrte
12 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Da Berief Herodes Die Weisen Heimlich
13 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium VI: Herodes
14 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Als Sie Nun Den Konig Gehorest Hatten
15 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium VII: Der Engel Zu Joseph
16 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Er Stund Auf
17 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium VIII: Der Engel Zu Joseph
18 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Er Stund Auf
19 Weihnachtshistorie: Beschluss
20 Four Motets: Wachet Auf, Ruft Uns Die Stimme
21 Four Motets: Puer Natus in Bethlehem
22 Four Motets: Wie Schon Leuchtet Der Morgenstern
23 Four Motets: In Dulci Jubilo
This is one of the most original and musically satisfying Christmas programs on disc. And it features some of the most characterful and proficient ensemble singing you'll find anywhere. It's not that the music is obscure--in fact, most of the texts and/or tunes are familiar.
Vesperae in Nativitate Domini
Claudio Monteverdi (1567-1643)
Giovanni Gabrieli (c. 1555-1612)
Chiara Margarita Cozzolani (1602-c. 1677)
Currende
Erik van Nevel
Label: Eufoda
https://currende.be
Belonging to the same tradition as the celebrated Weihnachtshistorie of his teacher Schütz, these sacred concertos by Rosenmüller date from the period 1645-50, when the young composer was enjoying a rapid rise to eminence in the good city of Leipzig. Long before his enforced exile in Venice for ‘unnatural vice’, a typically Italian suavity is already clearly perceptible all through these remarkable settings of St Luke’s account of the Nativity. Cantus Cölln returns here to its favourite repertoire, eight years after a first release devoted to the same composer’s Vesper music.
JOHANN ROSENMÜLLER [1619-1684]
· Es waren Hirten auf dem Felde bei den Hürden (7'54)
· Nihil novum sub sole (10'49)
· Christus ist mein Leben und Sterben mein ist mein Gewinn (7'08)
· Lieber Herre Gott (3'06)
· Gloria in excelsis Deo (11'12)
· Ich freue mich in Dir und heiße dich willkommen (11'06)
· O Nomen Jesu (3'43)
· Entsetze dich, Natur (21'29)
https://www.harmoniamundi.com/en/albums/weihnachtshistorie/
1 Pastime with Good Company
2 Coventry Carol
3 Rorate Coeli
4 Consort No. 3
5 Christe Jesu, Pastor Bone
6 Consort No. 3
7 This Is the Record of John
8 Ave Maria
9 Remember, O Thou Man
10 Consort No. 12
11 While Shepherds Watched
12 From Virgin Pure This Day Did Spring
13 Consort No. 2
14 Laudate Nomen
15 O Nata Lux
16 Magnificat a 4
17 Sweet Was the Song the Virgin Sung
18 Quid Petis O Fili
19 Consort No. 13
20 Hosanna to the Son of David
No one has recorded more innovative Christmas anthologies than Andrew Parrott--and this disc is no exception. The Promise of Ages presents a collection of wonderful seasonal music arranged for women's voices (all arrangements were either made or sanctioned by the composers).
Unlike many other great composers of the Renaissance, whose work lay in relative obscurity until the twentieth century, Palestrina's fame continued unabated from his lifetime to the present day. There are several reasons for this. The first is that he was, in fact, one of the greatest composers of the late Renaissance. The other is his association with the musical reforms of the Council of Trent, and the exaggerated allegation that he somehow single-handedly saved polyphonic church music.
—Angela Mariani.
1. O magnum mysterium (prima pars) 3:33
2. Quem vidistis pastores (secunda pars) 3:25
3. Ave Maria 3:43
4. Vidi turbam magnam (prima pars) 4:13
5. Et omnes Angeli (secunda pars) 3:28
6. Loquebantur variis linguis 4:14
7. Tu es Petrus 4:24
Missa O Magnum Mysterium
8. Kyrie 3:53
9. Gloria 6:20
10. Credo 9:48
11. Sanctus, Benedictus 7:33
12. Agnus Dei 4:36
The end of the 15th century in Spain saw a consolidation of power and a resulting political stability. The marriage of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castille brought about a union of these two kingdoms in 1479. Granada, the last Muslim stronghold, was conquered in 1492, the same year in which Columbus set out on a voyage of discovery which took him to what would later be known as the Americas.
https://www.sonoluminus.com/dorian/navidad-iberica
1997
https://outhere-music.com/en/albums/arcadelt-missa-noe-noe
This in collaboration with the Study Centre for Flemish Music. You can also go to the latter for the scores that accompany this music. An assignment that Piet Stryckers has worked on for years.
https://www.flandersboyschoir.org/index.php/nl/
2022
Deutsche Grammophon gifts Monteverdi's Christmas Vespers
Deutsche Grammophon description: La Cetra's credo is to serve one purpose: to make "Early Music" accessible to today's audiences through fresh, gripping and contemporary interpretations. The Vespro veneziano that Andrea Marcon has assembled for this new recording is inspired by the resplendent sounds of the music that was performed at the great Christmas Vespers in St. Mark's in the presence of the foremost dignitaries of La Serenissima and a large audience of aristocrats and visitors from across Europe.
Disc: 1
1 Vespro Della Beata Vergine-Deus in Adiutorium (Chant) / Domine Ad Adiuvandum (Sanctissimae Virgini Missa Senis Vocibus)
2 Intonatione Del Primo Tono (Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
3 Psalm 109: Dixit Dominus II (A 8 Voci Concertato Con Gli Stessi Istromenti Del Primo Et Nel Medesimo Modo Con 2 Violini E 4 Viole O Tromboni. Selva Morale E Spirituale)
4 O Felix, O Lucidissima Nox (Concerto in Loco Antiphonae. Motetto a Due Voci)
5 Intonatione Dell'undicesimo Tono (Trasportata Alla Quarta Bassa. Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
6 Psalm 110: Confitebor Tibi, Domine III (Alla Francese) (A 5 Voci Qual Si Può Concertare Si Piacerà Con Quattro Viole Da Brazzo Lasciando la Parte Del Soprano Alla Voce Sola Selva Morale E Spirituale)
7 Sonata a 8 Con Quattro Soprani (Sonata in Loco Antiphonae. Compositioni Armoniche Op. 3)
8 Intonatione Del Quinto Tono (Trasportata Alla Quarta Bassa. Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
9 Psalm 111: Beatus Vir I (A 6 Voci Concertato Con Due Violini & Tre Viole Da Brazzo Ovvero 3 Tromboni Quali Anco Si Ponno Lasciare. Selva Morale E Spirituale)
10 O Intemerata (Concerto in Loco Antiphonae, Motetto a Due Voci Il Secondo Libro de Motetti)
Disc: 2
1 Intonatione Del Secondo Tono (Trasportata Alla Quinta Alta. Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
2 Psalm 112: Laudate Pueri II (A 5 Voci. Selva Morale E Spirituale)
3 Venite, Sitientes, Ad Aquas Domini (Concerto in Loco Antiphonae. Seconda Raccolta de Sacri Canti)
4 Intonatione Del Ottavo Tono (Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
5 Psalm 116: Laudate Dominum I (A 5 Voci Concertato Con Due Violini Et Un Choro a Quattro Voci Qual Portasi E Cantare E Sonare Con Quattro Viole O Tromboni Et Anco Lasciare Se Acadesse Il Bisogno. Selva Morale E Spirituale)
6 Sonata XVIII a 14 (Sonata in Loco Antiphonae. Canzoni E Sonate)
7 Selva Morale E Spirituale-Hymnus: Christe Redemptor Omnium
8 Hodie Christus Natus Est (Antifona Al Magnificat (MS. at Kremsmünster)
9 Intonatione Del Nono Tono (Trasportata Alla Quinta Bassa. Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
10 Magnificat I (A 8 Voci & Due Violini & Quattro Viole Ovvero Quattro Tromboni Quali in Accidente Si Ponno Lasciare Selva Morale E Spirituale)
11 Intonatione Del Decimo Tono (Intonationi D'organo, Libro Primo)
12 Cantate Domino a 6 (Libro Primo de Motetti)
Concertos and Pastorales for Christmas Night with Bojan Čičić and the Illyria Consort
Delphian description: Bojan Čičić and the Illyria Consort’s latest Delphian recording revels in the great variety of musical styles and traditions that grew up around Christmas and its related feasts in Catholic Europe in the seventeenth century – a time when the introduction of ‘rustic’ effects into instrumental music changed the sound of Christmas forever.
The vivid theatricality of Baroque evocations of the shepherds and their milieu and the unusual combinations of instruments in much of this music, here given in performances brimming with energy and the joy of rediscovery, make this a Christmas album to reach for every year.
2021
The WESER-RENAISSANCE ensemble had two goals in mind in it's concert series "Breslau - A City in the Heart of Europe": the first was to offer musical enjoyment and the second was to remember an old cultural environment that had been forgotten for many decades.
The music
manuscripts and printed editions discovered in the Berlin State Library
attest to the great diversity and high quality of music culture in what
was once the capital of Silesia.
"Die Geburt unsers Herrn and Heylands
Jesu Christi" (The Birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ), a
Christmas narrative by Tobias Zeutschner, who was active at Breslau's
principal churches St. Bernhardin and St. Mary Magdalene, forms the
focus of the present selection from these sources in a program entitled
"Weihnachten i'm Breslau des 17. Jahrhunderts - Festmusik in der Kirche
St. Maria Magdalena" (Christmas in Seventeenth-Century Breslau - Festive
Music in the Church of St. Mary Magdalene).
This early example of a
Biblical history composition is richly scored for eighteen voices.
Label: CPO Records
New Recording off Signum Classics by Helen Charlston focuses on Elizabethan Christmas
A new recording off Signum Classics focuses on Christmas in Elizabethan times. By mezzo-soprano Helen Charlston and viol consort Fretwork, it was released in July 2021.
The recording includes pieces by William Byrd, Anthony Holbourne, Orlando Gibbons, and Martin Peerson.
Signum Classics description is as follows:
With celebrations confined strictly to the 12 days from Christmas Eve to Epiphany, the preceding Advent was regarded as a time of religious introspection, with music composed to mark both fasting and feasting. Byrd’s consort songs for voice and 5 viols encompass this range, from the joyous Out of the Orient Crystal Skies – ending with an exuberant ‘Falantidingdido’, a word whose meaning is lost to history – to his Lullaby, a ‘song of sadnes and pietie’ that became one of Byrd’s most enduringly famous songs.
In 2021, Fretwork celebrates its 35th anniversary. In the past three and a half decades they have explored the core repertory of great English consort music, from Taverner to Purcell, and made classic recordings against which others are judged. In addition to this, Fretwork have become known as pioneers of contemporary music for viols, having commissioned over 40 new works.
Acclaimed for her musical interpretation, presence and “warmly distinctive tone” (The Telegraph), Helen Charlston is quickly cementing herself as a key performer in the next generation of British singers. Helen won first prize in the 2018 Handel Singing Competition and was a finalist in the Hurn Court Opera Competition, and the Grange Festival International Singing Competition.
From Signum Classic webpage:
https://signumrecords.com/product/an-elizabethan-christmas/SIGCD680/
2020
On the present recording the Peñalosa Ensemble brings together works by the two composers whose sacred music forms the chronological frame of the Golden Age of Iberian vocal music: its namesake, the Spanish Renaissance composer Francisco de Peñalosa (motets, Magnificat), and Tomás Luis de Victoria (Missa, motets).
If Peñalosa may be said to belong to the first generation of composers who assimilated the Franco-Flemish style of Josquin Desprez, then Victoria's death in 1611 symbolically closed the Iberian Renaissance through the adoption of Italian influences from the Age of Mannerism.
The unique, highly emotional manifestation of Iberian Marian piety also influenced both composers - just as it also left its imprint on the visual arts in Spain during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Compositions by Tomás Luis de Victoria not only experienced successful, rapid, and continuous dissemination over the whole of Europe owing to what was beyond any doubt their sublime quality but also received additional impetus from printed editions of music - so that his music was interpreted without interruption until the nineteenth century and was elevated to the status of a symbol standing for an entire musical epoch. Label: CPO.
2022
Following its digital debut on Linn presenting a triptych of works by Josquin des Prez, Vicente Lusitano and Roderick Williams, The Marian Consort now focuses it's attention on the central figure of this trio, the 'Portuguese'. In his own time an important music theorist, Lusitano's reputation and music have both been neglected in ours.
As so often with musical figures of the Renaissance, many of the details of his life remain unknown. We can, however, be reasonably confident that he was the first published composer of African heritage. Referred to as 'pardo' in one eighteenth-century source, his only surviving printed book of compositions, the Liber primus epigramatum, was issued in Rome in 1551.
True to its pioneer spirit as 'brilliant discoverers, and exponents, of rare repertoire' (The Observer), The Marian Consort has recorded a carefully chosen program of these striking and impressive unjustly forgotten works. Lable: Linn Records.
Augsburger Weihnacht, Ensemble FAMA
A festive Christmas concert of motets, songs and instrumental settings by composers Hans Leo Hassler, Thomas Eisenhuet and Johann Erasmus Kindermann, performed by Ensemble Fama. A 17th century Christmas night in Augsburg.
It is part and parcel of the close relationship to Augsburg shared by all of the featured composers that the concerns of both Christian faiths, the Catholic and the Protestant, are taken into account in their music. The music as such was considered to be above and beyond denomination.
The Spanish 'Golden Age' witnessed an astonishing musical flowering, fully worthy of the nation's new-found preeminence on the world stage.
Focusing on works for Christmas and Epiphany, Stile Antico explores this glittering musical treasury, drawing together an irresistible mix of sumptuous polyphony and infectiously joyful folk dances.
The centrepiece of the is the superbly rich and luminous Missa Beata Dei genitrix Maria by Alonso Lobo. Interspersed between its movements are motets by Tomás Luis de Victoria, Francisco Guerrero and Christóbal de Morales, an exuberant 'ensalada' by Mateo Flecha, and classic villancicos - traditional carols using folk melodies.
1 Victoria: O Magnum Mysterium
2 Guerrero: A Un Niño Llorando
3 Morales: Cum Natus Esset Jesus
4 Flecha: El Jubilate
5 Lobo: Agnus Dei from Missa Beata Dei Genitrix Maria
2 Guerrero: A Un Niño Llorando
3 Morales: Cum Natus Esset Jesus
4 Flecha: El Jubilate
5 Lobo: Agnus Dei from Missa Beata Dei Genitrix Maria
2018
| 1 Christe Redemptor (Live) 2 Lapsed Caicki Laolacatt (Arr. By Ross w. Duffin) [Live] 3 Iloidcam Ja Reimuidcam (Arr. By Ross w. Duffin) [Live] 4 Mekletaja Cels (The Christmas Rose) [Live] 5 There Is a Flower (Live) 6 Magi Veniunt Ab Oriente (Live) 7 Ies8S Ahatonnia (The Huron Carol) (Arr. By Ross w. Duffin) [Live] 8 Joseph K8Riritenes (Joseph Est Bien Marie) (Arr. By Ross w. Duffin) [Live] 9 8I8 Satannitenrascon (Conditor Alme Siderum) (Arr. By Ross w. Duffin) [Live] 10 O Nuit! (Arr. By Ross w. Duffin) [Live] 11 Gaudete in Domino (Live) 12 Sa Qui Turo Zente Pleta (Live) 13 Mi Yemalel (Arr. By Ross w. Duffin) [Live] 14 Ma'oz Tzur Yeshu'ati (Arr. By Ross w. Duffin) [Live] |
On this album Trigon sings Christmas carols from 15th and 16th century manuscripts of the Modern Devotion movement. These include manuscripts from a convent near Utrecht (Berlin 190), one from the former Soeterbeeck convent, the Tongeren Manuscript and a manuscript from Zwolle / the IJssel Valley. Trigon also sings two songs found in a manuscript from the ‘rondebegynhof ’, the encircled Beguinage in Amsterdam, dating from the start of the 17th century.
Tracklist
---------
01. Ave celestis regina a2 (Utrecht, ca. 1480)
02. Ons is gheboren nu ter tijt a2 (Utrecht)
03. Septem gaudia beate Marie: Gaude virgo a1(Utrecht)
04. Ave maris stella a2 (Utrecht)
05. Laet ons mit hoegher vrolicheit a1 (Utrecht)
06. Ave maris stella a2 (Begijnhof Amsterdam, after 1609)
07. Ave Maria, O suijver maecht a2 (Begijnhof Amsterdam)
08. Iubilemus singuli a3 (IJsselvallei / Zwolle)
09. O suver maecht van Ysrahel a1 (Utrecht)
10. Nicolai solempnia a3 (Utrecht)
11. Het viel een hemels dauwe a2 (Soeterbeeck)
12. Een kindekijn is ons gheboren / Die coninghen uut orienten a1 (Utrecht)
13. Ad festum leticie a2 (Soeterbeeck)
14. Laet ons mit hartzen reyne / Ons is een kint gheboren a1 (Utrecht)
15. Iubilus Bernardi: Ihesu dulcis memoria a2 (Utrecht)
16. O maiestas deica a3 (Utrecht)
17. Regi psallens hec contio a2 (Utrecht)
18. Universalis ecclesia a3 (Utrecht)
19. Totus mundus sit iocundus a2 (Utrecht)
20. In dulci iublio a2 (Tongeren)
Following The Sixteens hugely successful album, Song of the Nativity, which featured Christmas music from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, this new seasonal offering explores a stunning selection of festive works from the Renaissance.
The Sixteen captures the joy and sincerity of the most wonderful of seasons, from the joyous simplicity of plainsong chants "Resonemus laudibus" and "Veni, veni Emmanuel" to the shining purity of Lassus polyphonic "Videntes stellam Magi" and Byrds jubilant "This day Christ was born."
This album provides a perfect alternative to traditional carols for those looking for something a little different at Christmas.
The Sixteen gives a masterclass in the art of unaccompanied singing, and in close emotional engagement with the pieces chosen It puts the music front and centre, in this beautifully realized Christmas sequence. (BBC Music Magazine)
Label: Cora
2015
Music for the people could have been the motto for 17th-century German composer Michael Praetorius. He adhered to the ideals of Protestant pioneer Martin Luther – of whom his father was a disciple – that music, like religion, should be open and free to all. Praetorius was an extraordinarily versatile composer and, along with Bach, was one of the greatest composers of Protestant church music in Germany. With his music, he strived to bring together people of all walks of life – professional singers, congregations, villagers and children alike.
Like the Vespers settings in the 17th century – most notably the Vespers of 1610 by Monteverdi, who inspired Praetorius – this Christmas Vespers is an assemblage of works by Praetorius that Apollo’s Fire’s founder / director Jeanette Sorrell has compiled. It highlights his virtuosic vocal and instrumental writing and includes as interludes his popular carol settings, O Morning Star and Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming.
MICHAEL PRAETORIUS (1571–1621)
PART 1
AWAITING THE MESSIAH: A LUTHERAN ADVENT SERVICE
1. PROCESSIONAL: Nun Komm der Heiden Heiland (3:15)
Chorale melody by Martin Luther, arrangement/English adaptation Sorrell
Scott Mello & Kirsten Sollek cantors
2. Nun Komm der Heiden Heiland (5:09)
Polyphonic setting from Polyhymnia caduceatrix (PC)
3. HYMN: Wachet Auf! From PC (2:47)
Jolle Greenleaf, Kirsten Sollek, Ryan Turner, Paul Shipper
4. CAROL: Puer Natus in Bethlehem, from PC (4:49)
5. OFFERTORY: Ach, Mein Herre, from PC (7:42)
Nell Snaidas, Jolle Greenleaf, Sandra Simon
6. CREDO: Wir glauben all (5:35)
Melody by Martin Luther, harmonized setting from Musica Sionae (MS)
Nell Snaidas, Jolle Greenleaf, Sandra Simon
7. Dances from Terpsichore (4:26)
Bransle de Poictu – Gaillarde – Bransle gay – Bransle simple – Bransle double
8. GLORIA: Glori sei Gott, from PC (6:57)
A VESPERS SERVICE FOR CHRISTMAS DAY
9. HYMN: Queen Pastores, from Puericinium (3:13)
Abigail Clark, Allison Paetz, Allison Miller, Patrick Conklin
10. ANTIPHON: Christum wir sollen loben (plainchant) (0:49)
Chorale melody by Martin Luther
11. MAGNIFICAT, Parts I & II, from PC (5:57)
12. CAROL: O Morning Star, from PC (2:57)
Abigail Clark & Madeline Apple Healey
13.MAGNIFICAT, Parts III & IV (7:32)
14. CAROL: Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming, from MS (1:40)
15. Our Father in Heaven, from MS (1:02)
16. BENEDICTION: Benedicamus aeterno Regi, from Eulogodia Sionia I (1611) (0:49)
Paul Shipper
17. ORGAN VOLUNTARY: Nun lob mein Seel, from MS (2:33)
Michael Sponseller, organ
18. CLOSING HYMN: (7:14)
In dulci jubilo / Good Christian Friends, Rejoice! From PC
Verse 1: Madeline Apple Headley, Jolle Greenleaf, Scott Mello
Verse 4: Peter Simon, Sandra Simon, Jolle Greenleaf
Total time: 74:40
Recorded December 9 – 13, 2005, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Cleveland Heights, OH
Producer: Susan Napodano DelGiorno
Recording Engineer: Thomas Knab
Mixing Thomas Knab and Silas Brown
Mastering: Thomas Knab
2014
Missa Hodie Christus natus est
2014 | Import
by Choir of Westminster Cathedral and Martin Baker
Label: Hyperion
A Christmas programme with a difference: Rory McCleery and his acclaimed consort echo the shepherds’ noels through a motet by Jean Mouton which, astonishingly, remained in the repertoire of the Sistine Chapel for over a hundred years after its composition around 1515.
So famous already by the middle of the century, when Cristóbal de Morales was engaged as a singer in the papal chapel, it was inevitable that Mouton’s motet – by the compositional precepts of the time – should form the basis for a mass by Morales; and, later still, for a new motet to the same text by Annibale Stabile. A world premiere recording of the latter work crowns this unique programme, drawn from new performing editions by McCleery himself.
1 Quaeramus Cum Pastoribus
2 Kyrie
3 Gloria
4 Puer Natus Est Nobis
5 Credo
6 Noe, Noe, Noe, Psallite Noe
7 Sanctus & Benedictus
8 Pastores Dicite, Quidnam Vidistis?
9 Agnus Dei
10 Quaeramus Cum Pastoribus
Sing Thee Nowell
2014 | Hybrid SACD – DSDNowell, Nowel, Noel - on their new release, Sing thee Nowell, New York Polyphony sings of, and to, the birth of Christ in a typically sophisticated programme which fuses the ancient with the modern into a seamless whole.
Seven centuries of Christmas passes before the listener with new works composed for these performers by Michael McGlynn, Andrew Smith and John Scott alongside traditional medieval and Renaissance carols and motets by Clemens 'non Papa', Philippe Verdelot and Tomás Luis de Victoria.
The wide-ranging sequence is anchored by Richard Rodney Bennett's Five Carols, in which the sopranos Sarah Brailey and Elizabeth Baber Weaver join in celebrating 'the joyful birth' and in praising 'Mary mild', that 'maiden fair and wise'. The wondrous events related to the Christmas story and the joy they bring to mankind naturally dominate, but intimations of Christ's death on the cross also surface in the course of the disc, as in Peter Warlock's Bethlehem Down: 'they will clothe him in grave-sheets, myrrh for embalming, and wood for a crown.'
Formed in 2006, New York Polyphony has rapidly emerged as one of the leading vocal chamber ensembles, applying a distinctly modern touch to repertoire that ranges from austere medieval melodies to cutting-edge contemporary compositions. Two previous recordings for BIS have received critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination for the 2013 release Times go by Turns, interleaving masses by Byrd and Tallis with works from the 21st century.
Christmas with the Shepherds by Marian Consort, Rory McCleery and Various (2014)
Delphian presents Christmas with the Shepherds - a unique album from Rory McCleery and The Marian Consort that illuminates a little-known and fascinating musical connection. Jean Mouton's 1515 motet Quaeramus cum pastoribus was hugely popular with the public and fellow composers alike. This disc features works that were inspired by this hit tune, including a mass by Cristobal de Morales and the world premiere recording of a motet to the same text by Annibale Stabile.
By popular demand, Folger Consort celebrates the holidays with the
music of the Spanish empire in the New World, where the interaction
between Spanish, Inca, and Aztec cultures produced unique music with
indigenous American as well as African elements. Enjoy the mix of lively
early baroque dances and exuberant music by Latin American and Spanish
composers for the Christmas season. This 2013 live recording features
instrumentalists Risa Browder, Paula Fagerberg, Anna Marsh, Mary
Springfels, Charles Weaver, Tom Zajac, and members of the Washington
National Cathedral's chamber vocal ensemble, Cathedra.
Editor's Note: If you know the tracks on this album, please contact us at christmascarolblog@gmail.com.
Gramophone Record of the Year winners The Cardinall's Musick continue their exploration of Tallis's sacred music. These recordings not only showcase the greatest repertoire of the English Renaissance in dazzling performances, but also illustrate the complex historical and political background of the works and their genesis. This volume presents Tallis's extraordinary seven-voice mass, Missa Puer natus est nobis, which dates from the Catholic reign of Mary I. Other works recorded here include what is possibly Tallis's earliest work, the four-part Latin Magnificat, and the gloriously splendid Videte miraculum, a masterpiece with a rich palette of colors, enhanced by suave melodic writing with a slow-moving harmonic pulse tinged with heart-achingly gorgeous cadences.
1 Salvator Mundi, Domine [4'16]
2 Plainsong Puer Natus Est Nobis [4'22]
3 Missa Puer Natus Est Nobis Gloria [9'18]
4 Missa Puer Natus Est Nobis Sanctus and Benedictus [7'51]
5 Missa Puer Natus Est Nobis Agnus Dei [7'48]
6 Quod Chorus Vatum [4'26]
7 Benedictus [6'01]
8 Magnificat a 4 [10'33]
9 Audivi Vocem de Caelo [3'44]
10 Videte Miraculum [9'16]
2013
Renaissance Vocal Music for the festive season by Morales, Victoria, Guerrero, Fernandez, Padilla et al, originally issued in 2003, now budget price. La Colombina at the time comprised the now household names of Maria Cristina Kiehr, Claudio Cavina, Josep Benet and Josep Cabré.
Christophorus
2012
Six stanzas survive in a 13th-century manuscript, each with slight musical variants, and another four stanzas in other manuscripts of the period. Our performance presents music to the entire song as it appears in the original manuscript, but we use the delightful rhyming English translation by Henry Copley Greene.
Dating from around the same time, but from across the Channel, is "Gabriel from Heven King," which exists also in Latin as "Angelus ad virginem," a title mentioned in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales (sung by Nicholas the Clerk in "The Miller's Tale").
The song tells of the dialog between Mary and the Angel Gabriel at the Annunciation; we highlight the dialog by having men sing Gabriel's part and women sing Mary's. The Middle English text is slightly hard to follow, so we are fortunate that the Romantic poet Gerard Manley Hopkins (1844-89) made a rendering of it that has formed the basis of our singing version. The musical text is taken from two manuscripts of the 14th century.
From the next century in England come several Christmas songs in a popular form for lyric works at the time-the carol. So common did the use of this form become for Christmas works that nowadays we use the term "carol" to denote a Christmas song, although it did not originally have that connotation. The typical carol uses a refrain, or "burden," alternating with verses.
Another feature of these delightful English carols is their "macaronic" text, that is, lyrics that move back and forth between Latin and English. They also all feature use of a fauxbourdon texture, where the outer voices are frequently in parallel at a distance of a sixth, and the middle voice is a fourth below the top. This texture of sweet, parallel first-inversion triads is strongly associated with late-Medieval polyphony, and seems related to what the French writer Martin le Franc referred to c.1440 as "La contenance angloise"-the English Guise.
An English carol from the early 16th century, "Quid petis, o fili?" survives as the most substantial musical work in a manuscript copied for the court of Henry VIII. Like the earlier Gabriel from Heven King, it uses imagined details and dialog to tell a story. Here, the long, Latin "burden" for the chorus alternates with florid soloists' verses in English describing Mary interacting tenderly with the baby Jesus.
Next are two works from a collection of anonymous villancicos printed in Venice in 1556 with a special section of Christmas songs. The sole surviving copy is in the University Library in Uppsala, Sweden, so it has been dubbed the Cancionero de Upsala. In "E la don don," monophonic verses for men alternate with a polyphonic refrain sung by the full group.
"Dadme albricias" features soprano solos and duets with tenor, alternating with the chorus. Palestrina's "A solis ortus cardine" is a setting of a chant hymn for Christmas morning at the service of Lauds. The chant follows the contour of the well-known Gregorian melody, but the composer puts it in a different mode (Dorian, rather than Phrygian), which we have used in this performance.
Palestrina's setting uses alternatim technique, where verses of the chant alternate with polyphonic verses variously for three, four, and ultimately five voices. It was published in 1589, during which time Palestrina was maestro di cappella at St. Peter's in Rome, but two other sources are manuscripts copied by Palestrina himself, so it seems to be a work of which he was especially fond. William Byrd's "This day Christ was born" is "A Carroll for Christmas Day" from his Psalmes, Songs, and Sonnets of 1611. In keeping with Byrd's Catholic background in Protestant England, the text is a translation of the antiphon to the Magnificat for the Second Vespers of the Nativity.
However, rather than sounding like a stately motet, it is instead in madrigal style, with angelic voices entwining, and thrilling alleluias.
Around 1694, Marc-Antoine Charpentier composed his Messe de Minuit pour Noel (Midnight Mass for Christmas), which used popular tunes as themes for the movements of the Mass. The first Kyrie is based on the tune of "Joseph est bien marié," which, unlike some of the other tunes Charpentier borrowed, at least was originally a Christmas song to begin with! Our arrangement is based on harmonizations in the Messe de Minuit.
One lovely French Christmas song that did not make it into Charpentier's Mass-probably because it wasn't yet composed-is "Quelle est cette odeur agréable?" It appeared around 1700; by 1728, it had been hijacked by John Gay as the melody for the drinking song "Fill every glass" from his ballad-based Beggar's Opera.
"Tous les bourgeois de Châtre" is also from the Messe de Minuit, appearing in a modified form in the Gloria. Charpentier also did more straightforward arrangements of it as a "noel"-a Christmas work for organ solo or for an ensemble of instruments-and those have formed the basis of our harmonization. Jakob Handl (also known as "Gallus") was born in Slovenia and worked mainly in Austria before spending his last few years in Prague. His "Canite tuba in Sion," based on an Office antiphon for the 4th Sunday of Advent, features an unusual scoring for low voices in close counterpoint. It was published in 1586 in the first volume of Handl's monumental four-volume edition of his own motets.
The next four works were published in the 1582 Latin collection, Piæ Cantiones (there was also a Finnish version published in 1616, reflecting the apparent origin of the collection). "Personent hodie," which is monophonic in the original print, appears in the Oxford Book of Carols in an arrangement by Gustav Holst (which is what I grew up with), but the 4-voice harmonization for this recording's performance is my own, based on Medieval and Renaissance contrapuntal procedures. An earlier version of the piece, entitled "Intonent hodie," survives in the 14th-century Moosburger Graduale.
"Puer natus in Bethlehem" is a strophic hymn based on the Introit for Christmas Day, but set in Piæ Cantiones as an unusual duo. I expanded the texture to include a four-voice arrangement, using an array of textures in the many stanzas, with solos, duos, and quartets for women and men and for both together. "Verbum caro" is another hymn based on a famous Christmas chant. This charming, lilting work is also monophonic in the original source; I harmonized it using period contrapuntal techniques.
The vigorous "Gaudete" appears in Piæ Cantiones only as a four-voice refrain. Lyrics for the stanzas are printed in the source but there is no music for them at all, so I have created a monophonic verse and harmonized it for the last stanza to match the refrain.
In 2011, Quire Cleveland held a competition for members of the Cleveland Composers' Guild to compose a work for performance on our annual Christmas program. "Quiet Promise" by Jennifer Conner was the winner.
The composer explains: 'Each year at Christmas, I usually make my own cards with the message that speaks to me most that year. Being a composer, my cards have often been short compositions. Thus, several years ago I wrote a short poem entitled Quiet Promise, which I then set as a solo for piano and voice. The idea I wanted to communicate that year was the incredible simplicity, humility, and lack of fanfare behind the birth narrative, in light of the insatiable need for the spotlight that permeates our present culture. This past summer [2011] I decided to expand this poem, adding several more verses to the narrative-but still with the same thematic intent. I then set this work as a carol specifically for Quire's Christmas concerts.
1 Out from Lands of Orient
2 Gabriel from Heaven's King
3 There Is No Rose
4 Ave Rex Angelorum
5 Nowell Sing We
6 E La Don Don
7 Dadme Albricias
8 A Solis Ortus Cardine
9 This Day Christ Was Born
10 Joseph Est Bien Mari\xE9
11 Quelle Est Cette Odeur Agr\xE9able
12 Tous Les Bourgois De Ch\xE2tre
13 Canite Tuba in Sion
14 Personent Hodie
15 Puer Natus in Bethlehem
16 Verbum Caro Factum Est
17 Gaudete
18 Quiet Promise
19 In the Bleak Midwinter
20 The Holly and the Ivy
21 A Spotless Rose
2 Gabriel from Heaven's King
3 There Is No Rose
4 Ave Rex Angelorum
5 Nowell Sing We
6 E La Don Don
7 Dadme Albricias
8 A Solis Ortus Cardine
9 This Day Christ Was Born
10 Joseph Est Bien Mari\xE9
11 Quelle Est Cette Odeur Agr\xE9able
12 Tous Les Bourgois De Ch\xE2tre
13 Canite Tuba in Sion
14 Personent Hodie
15 Puer Natus in Bethlehem
16 Verbum Caro Factum Est
17 Gaudete
18 Quiet Promise
19 In the Bleak Midwinter
20 The Holly and the Ivy
21 A Spotless Rose
A very special CD for Christmas is presented by Flanders Recorder Quartet together with the young Belgian vocal ensemble Encantar and soprano Cecile Kempenaers: Christmas music from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Traditional melodies as well as Gregorian chant, consort songs, and chorales: this early Christmas music rediates a lot of character and color, cheerfulness and contemplation.
The large recorders, practically a “living organ,” are the perfect partners for the singers. To be heard on this CD is the world's largest recorder, a 3-meter-long sub-contrabass.
This is the Flanders Recorder Quartet's fifth production for AEOLUS, and the CD debut of the four remarkable young singers of Encantar.
Anonymous Ave stella matutina
Samuel Scheidt Gelobet seist Du, Jesu Christ
Clemens non Papa Descendit angelus Domini
Anonymous Lullay, lullay
Tomás Luis de Victoria O Regem coeli
Anonymous Born is the Babe
Anonymous Sweet was the Song
Anonymous Sweet was the Song
Michael Praetorius Summo parenti gloria
Michael Praetorius Hymnus in adventu Domini
Jacob Praetorius Christum wir sollen loben
Lambert de Sayve Quem vidistis pastores
Clemens non Papa Gabriel angelus
Alexander Agricola Magnificat
Anonymous Nowel, nowel
2011
1 Ave Maria, Motet for 4 Voices
2 O Regem Coeli, Motet for 4 Voices
3 Congratulamini Mihi, Motet for 6 Voices
4 Alma Redemptoris Mater, Antiphon for 5 Voices
5 Quam Pulchri Sunt Gressus Tui, Motet for 4 Voices
6 Magi Viderunt Stellam, Motet for 4 Voices
7 Ne Timeas, Maria (In Annuntiatione Benissimae Mariae), Motet for 4 Voices
8 Ecce Dominus Veniet, Motet for 5 Voices
9 Quem Vidistis, Pastores, Motet for 6 Voices
10 Hostis Herodes Impie, Hymn for 4 Voices
11 O Magnum Mysterium, Motet for 4 Voices
12 Gaude, Maria Virgo, Motet for 5 Voices
13 Ave Maria, Gratia Plena, Motet for 8 Voices & Organ
This beautiful CD contains 22 tracks, all with a Christmas theme, and all datable to when William Shakespeare was alive (1564-1616).
Early music played on reproduction instruments interspersed with period readings, including pieces by Campion, Holbourne, Lawes and Byrd.
Includes a booklet with lyrics and sources.
Track Listing:
1.All you that love good fellows/Carol for Innocent's Day (In sad and ashy weeds)/Hey for Christmas (Dargasons)
2."Rorate coeli" to the tune of Beggar Boy
3.Now Winter nights enlarge [Campion]
4.December (reading)
5."Jurie cam to Jerusalem" to the tune of Dulcina
6.Balulalow (ane sang of the birth of Christ)
7.Lully Lullay/Remember thou, O man
8.Sweet was the song
9.O than the fairest day (reading)/As it fell on a holie eve [Holbourne]
10.New Prince, New Pomp
11.All Sons of Adam
12.Oyle of Barley (Stingo)
13.Beat up a drum for Christmas reigns
14.St. Stephen's Day Carol (Robin)/Christmas is my Name (Now the Spring is come)
15.Tis Christmas Now [Lawes]
16.Christmas, his Masque (reading)
17.The New Year's Gift
18.Coventry Carol
19.The star song (reading)/New-yeers Gift [Holbourne]
20.Twelfe Night, or King and Queene
21.Adorna Thalamum tuum [Byrd]
22.In praise of Christmas (To drive the cold winter away),
2013
Listen here
How Beautifully Shines the Morning Star
Artists
Lautten Compagney & Wolfgang Katschner, /Dorothee Mields, Paul Agnew
Released on: November 1, 2013
The renowned German Baroque ensemble Lautten Compagney consistently surprises with original program ideas. "How Beautifully Shines the Morning Star" tells a short Christmas story about the birth of Jesus in four sections, each featuring a central chorale and many other well-known Christmas carols. The first part is characterized by the chorale "Nun komm der Heiden Heiland" (Now Come, Savior of the Gentiles), with the text distributed between the motet by Samuel Scheidt and the concerto by Michael Praetorius, both of which playfully engage with the melody in imaginative ways. In the second part, Luther's chorale "Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her" (From Heaven Above, I Come Here) takes center stage and is heard in an instrumental version by Johann Schein and as a choral setting by Praetorius. "Wie schön leuchtet der Morgenstern" (How Beautifully Shines the Morning Star) is the central chorale of the third section and describes the arrival of Jesus Christ. The program concludes with Johann Theile's Christmas cantata "Nun ich singe, Gott, ich knie" (Now I Sing, God, I Kneel), which was only rediscovered in 2001 in the archives of the Sing-Akademie zu Berlin. Together with the two renowned soloists Dorothee Mields and Paul Agnew, the diverse instrumentation of the Lautten Compagney creates a fascinating journey through 17th-century German Christmas music.
"If you're going to listen to Christmas music, then this is the way to do it: songs by Praetorius, Schütz, and other Protestant composers of the 17th century. Tender, steadfast in faith, soulful, joyful – far removed from all commercial nativity scene kitsch." (Tagesspiegel) "Very gentle and very humble and very warm. Much of what Christmas is truly about." (RBB Kulturradio)
- Puer natus in Bethlehem
- Nun komm der Heiden Heiland
- Ach bittrer Winter
- Maria durch ein Dornwald ging
- Gegrüsset seist du, Holdselige
- Es ist ein Ros entsprungen
- Nun komm der Heiden Heiland
- Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her
- Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her
- Resonet in laudibus
- Singt, ihr lieben Christen all
- Der Engel sprach zu den Hirten
- Kommet, ihr Hirten
- Ein kleines Kindelein
- Quem pastores laudavere
- Wie schön leuchtet der Morgenstern
- Wie schön leuchtet der Morgenstern
- Fröhlich soll mein Herze springen
- Vom Himmel hoch, o Engel kommt
- Joseph, lieber Joseph mein
- Ach, mein herzliebes Jesulein
- Nun ich singe, Gott ich knie
2011
Epiphany - from the Greek meaning "manifestation" or "appearance" - is the traditional Christian feast that celebrates the revelation of God the Son as a human being in Jesus.
Christians in the West mark the feast with the story of the biblical Magi, the "three kings" that followed the star and brought the famous gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh for the baby Jesus.
Schola Antiqua's album features pieces written expressly for the season of Epiphany, chiefly by sixteenth-century composers who fashioned ornate polyphonic choral works to commemorate the feast. The most compositionally ambitious pieces in this collection are two motets by the English composer John Sheppard, Reges Tharsis (Track 1) and Salvator mundi (Track 2). Each is rooted in plainchant and scored for six voices.
Reges Tharsis means "Kings of Tharsis," which we take for the title of our recording. The placename is a biblical reference to some distant realm, possibly as far west as modern-day Spain.
The musical basis of the motet is a responsory chant of the same name sung on the feast of Epiphany, with text drawn from Psalm 72. Sheppard situated the plainchant in the tenor voice in long, sustained notes, as was customary in his motets. The composer's Salvator mundi is a hymn that was used during the brief evening service of Compline specifically from Christmas until the week after Epiphany.
It is an example of praxis alternatim, in which strophes in plainchant alternate with those in polyphony. Plainchant undergirds other pieces on this album, the earliest of which is Omnes de Saba (Track 3) by one Magister Leoninus (Leonin). One of the first nameable composers in western music, Leonin flourished in Paris in the closing decades of the twelfth century. He wrote elaborate two-voice duets called organum, based on especially virtuosic plainchant that would normally be sung by cantors in the Mass or Office.
In Omnes de Saba, the gradual for Epiphany, one can hear the contrast between soloists and chorus and between polyphony and chant. The long, wordless passages sung on vowels, the quicker dance-like sections, and the highly melismatic chant sung by the choir all reinforce the ecstatic character of these pieces.
Polyphony alternates with plainchant in the sequence Epiphaniam Domino (Track 4), a text that originated in France, probably around the year 900. The sequence-sometimes called a "prose" (prosa)-functions as exegesis of a given feast and usually features paired verses. The polyphony of Epiphaniam Domino was composed by Guillaume Du Fay around 1433-34. In the splendid sections of polyphony, Du Fay places the melody of the plainchant-now rhythmicized and ornamented-in the highest of the three voices (cantus). The melody is still quite recognizable in this arrangement, especially for those who know the chant well.
The chanted hymn Hostis herodes impie, usually sung at the service of First Vespers on the feast of Epiphany, forms the basis for two works by different composers on this recording, each of which exhibits praxis alternatim. Orlande de Lassus was one of the most prolific and admired composers of the sixteenth century, who served as chapel master for the Bavarian dukes for some thirty years. His hymn Hostis herodes impie (Track 5), from around 1580, is scored for five voices in it's polyphonic strophes; the plainchant is declaimed in the first tenor voice, which is itself hidden in the middle of the texture.
In 1581, the Spanish composer Tomás Luis de Victoria composed a similar polyphonic setting of Hostis herodes impie (Track 6) but for four voices in alternation with plainchant. He composed the hymn during his activity in Rome as chaplain of San Girolamo della Carità. Victoria presents the melody in two different ways, though always encountered in elongated notes.
It is heard audibly in the soprano part during the first polyphonic verse, only to be relegated to the tenor part for the second polyphonic verse. Although all of the pieces mentioned are based on chant, only one work on this recording is presented solely as a chant. Hodie celesti sponso (Track 7) is an antiphon enumerating the principal themes of Epiphany. The antiphon frames the recitation of the Magnificat, the canticle of Mary from the Gospel of Luke. Hodie celesti sponso and it's accompanying Magnificat constituted the musical highlight of the Vespers on Epiphany and directly preceded the Gospel reading at that service.
The album concludes with three devotional works for Epiphany (Tracks 8-10) known as villancicos (or villanescas) all from the hand of the Spanish composer Francisco Guerrero in his series of 31 Canciones y villanescas espirituales (Venice, 1589). Guerrero's villancicos feature a four- or five-part refrain (estribillo) set against a stanza (copla) for a smaller ensemble or soloist. The dialogue that takes place in Mi fe, vengo de Belén (Track 8) suggests possible use on the stage, betraying the villancico's secular origins. The choral sections of Guerrero's villancicos contrast free imitative part-writing with moments of stark homophony, in which the parts unite to declaim the text sonorously and with great spirit.
1 Reges Tharsis
2 Salvator Mundi
3 Omnes de Saba
4 Epiphaniam Domino
5 Hostis Herodes Impie
6 Hostis Herodes Impie
7 Hodie Celesti Sponso
8 Mi Fe, Vengo de Belen
9 Los Reyes Siguen La'strella
10 A Un Niño Llorando
1 Reges Tharsis
2 Salvator Mundi
3 Omnes de Saba
4 Epiphaniam Domino
5 Hostis Herodes Impie
6 Hostis Herodes Impie
7 Hodie Celesti Sponso
8 Mi Fe, Vengo de Belen
9 Los Reyes Siguen La'strella
10 A Un Niño Llorando
2010
DISC 1
1. Greeting
2. In Thee is Gladness
3. Magnificat noni toni, from Tabulatura Nova
4. Vetrate di Chiesa
5. Unexpected and Mysterious
6. Litany: Laudes Creaturum
7. Reading: Joseph Brodsky (1940-1996) 8. Hodie aperuit (III from The Hildegard Motets)
9. Ave Maria
10. The Spheres (from Sunrise Mass)
11. People Look East
12. Readings: Gospel of John and Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179)
13. Gloria
14. O beatum et sacrosanctum diem
15. Sonata pian'e forte
16. A Child is Born
17. In Thee Is Gladness
DISC 2
1. Reading: John Donne (1572-1631)
2. Vetrate di chiesa
3. Lullaby Carol (2005)
4. With Crowded Lamps (from Lumen Christi)
5. Sing We Now of Christmas
6. Carol of the Magi
7. The First Nowell
8. Reading: St. Fancis of Assisi
9. Riu, Riu, Chiu
10. Illumina le tenebre (Prayer before the Crucifix)
11. Prayer of Saint Frances
12. Sending Prayers
13. O Come, All Ye Faithful
1 Work(S): Deus in Adiutorium (PS. 70) / Qui Me Confessus Fuerit (Ant. 1)
2 Dixit Dominus (Psalm 110), for Chorus & Ensemble
3 Sonata Vespertina a 8
4 Qui Sequitur Me, Antiphon
5 Confitebor (Psalm 111), for Chorus & Ensemble
6 Sonata a 5, 4/70, a 519
7 Qui Mihi Ministrat, Antiphon
8 Beatus Vir (Psalm 112), for Chorus & Ensemble
9 Sonata Laetitiae for 2 Violins & 3 Violas, 4/11, a 471
10 Si Quis Mihi Ministraverit, Antiphon
11 Laudate Pueri (Psalm 113), for Chorus & Ensemble
12 Sonata a 7, 4/69, a 518
13 Volo, Pater, Antiphon
14 Laudate Dominum (Psalm 117), for Chorus & Ensemble
15 Sonata a 5, 4/224, a 640
16 Beatus Vir Qui Suffert, Lectio (James 1:12)
17 Deus Tuorum Militum, Hymn in Mode 8 (Liber Usualis No. 1126)
18 Justus Ut Palma Florebit, Versiculum & Responsory
19 Iste Sanctus, Antiphon Before the Magnificat
20 Magnificat, for Chorus & Ensemble (Canticum BVM)
21 Sonata S. Petri Et Pauli, for Trumpet, 3 Trombones, Violin & 3 Violas, 4/10, a 470
22 Dominus Vobiscum... Deus, Qui Beatum Wenceslaum, Prayer
23 Salve Regina
24 Omnipotens Sempiterne Deus, Oratio
1 Videte Miraculum - Thomas Tallis
2 Audivi Vocem de Caelo - John Taverner
3 Rorate Caeli Desuper (Gradualia I, 1605) - William Byrd
4 Gloria (Missa Puer Natus Est) - Tallis
5 Tollite Portas (Gradualia I) - Byrd
6 Sanctus & Benedictus (Missa Puer Natus Est) - Tallis
7 Ave Maria (Gradualia I) - Byrd
8 Agnus Dei (Missa Puer Natus Est) - Tallis
9 Ecce Virgo Concipiet (Gradualia I) - Byrd
10 Magnificat - Robert White
11 Puer Natus Est - Plainchant
12 Verbum Caro - John Sheppard
2009
A historically accurate, vivid, and listenable collection of
Christmas songs from the Renaissance to modern times sung by a famous Dutch vocal quintet.
1 Gloria in Cielo E Pace in Terra
2 O Jes㺠Dolce
3 Niã±O Dios D'amor Herido
4 Pastores, Si Nos Queries
5 Oyd, Oyd, Una Cosa Divina
6 Virgen Sancta
7 A Un Niã±O Llorando
8 A Virgin Most Pure
9 Ding Dong! Merrily on High
10 It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
11 King Jesus Hath a Garden
12 God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
13 Past Three a Clock
14 A Venezuelan Christmas Carol
15 O Kerstnacht, Schooner Dan de Dagen
16 Laat Ons Met Harten Reine
17 O Herders, Laat Uw Bokken en Schapen
18 Het Komet Een Schip Geladen
19 O Little Town of Bethlehem
20 Away in a Manger
21 Celebrate This Holy One
22 Follow That Star
23 The Christmas Song
24 Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
2008
1 A Solis Ortus Cardine / Beatus Audtor Saeculi 2 Magnificat Quinti Toni / Joseph, Lieber Joseph Mein / in Dulci Iubilo  |
2007
Puer Natus est by Concerto Palatino, Studio de musique ancienne de Montréal, Christopher Jackson
1 O magnum mysterium à 8
2 O quam suavis à 7
3 Salve Regina à 12
4 Magnificat à 12
5 Canzon decima quinta à 6
6 Angelus ad pastores à 12
7 Magnificat Octavi toni à 8
8 Hodie Chrstus natus est à 10
9 Beata es virgo à 6
10 Quem vidistis pastores à 8
11 Sancta Maria, succure miseris à 8
12 Canzona seconda à 7
13 Sancta Maria, succure miseris à 8
14 Salvator noster à 16
ATMA Classique
2 O quam suavis à 7
3 Salve Regina à 12
4 Magnificat à 12
5 Canzon decima quinta à 6
6 Angelus ad pastores à 12
7 Magnificat Octavi toni à 8
8 Hodie Chrstus natus est à 10
9 Beata es virgo à 6
10 Quem vidistis pastores à 8
11 Sancta Maria, succure miseris à 8
12 Canzona seconda à 7
13 Sancta Maria, succure miseris à 8
14 Salvator noster à 16
ATMA Classique
1 Weihnachtshistorie: Intro Oder Eingang
2 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Es Begab Sich Aber Zu Derselbigen Zeit
3 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium I: Der Engel Zu Dem Hirten Auf Dem Felde
4 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Alsbald War Da Bei Dem Engel
5 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium II: Die Menge Der Engel
6 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Da Die Engel Von Ihnen Gen Himmel Fuhren
7 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium IV III: Die Hirten Auf Dem Felde
8 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Sie Kamen Eilend
9 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium IV: Die Weisen Aus Morgenlande
10 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Da Das Der Konig Herodes Horete
11 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium V: Hohepriester Und Schriftgelehrte
12 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Da Berief Herodes Die Weisen Heimlich
13 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium VI: Herodes
14 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Als Sie Nun Den Konig Gehorest Hatten
15 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium VII: Der Engel Zu Joseph
16 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Er Stund Auf
17 Weihnachtshistorie: Intermedium VIII: Der Engel Zu Joseph
18 Weihnachtshistorie: Evangelist Und Er Stund Auf
19 Weihnachtshistorie: Beschluss
20 Four Motets: Wachet Auf, Ruft Uns Die Stimme
21 Four Motets: Puer Natus in Bethlehem
22 Four Motets: Wie Schon Leuchtet Der Morgenstern
23 Four Motets: In Dulci Jubilo
This is one of the most original and musically satisfying Christmas programs on disc. And it features some of the most characterful and proficient ensemble singing you'll find anywhere. It's not that the music is obscure--in fact, most of the texts and/or tunes are familiar.
From early American settings of "While shepherds watched" and "The Apple Tree" to traditional Austrian and English carols such as "Still, still, still," and "Greensleeves" (sung to different-than-usual words), we're treated to outstanding arrangements (by Paul Hillier) and often surprising variations of tunes we thought we knew. In several cases--"While shepherds watched" and "Hark!
The herald angels sing," for example--the familiar texts are sung to completely different melodies. Highlights include original carols by Charles Ives and Jean Sibelius, and a starkly beautiful setting of "There is no rose" by Hillier. --David Vernier
1 While Shepaherds Watched (Sherburne)
2 The Shepherd's Star
3 A Christmas Carol
4 Joy To The World!
5 The Apple Tree
6 Christmas Hymn: A Virgin Unspotted
7 Away In A Manger (Afton Water)
8 While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night
9 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (Eltham)
10 En Esti Valtaa, Loistoa
11 Still, O Himmel
12 Susser Die Glocken
13 Weihnachtslied
14 Still, Still, Still
15 Gaudete, Christus Est Natus
16 Personent Hodie
17 The Yorkshire Wassail Song
18 Green Grow'th The Holly
19 Here We Come A-Wassailing
20 The Cherry Tree Carol
21 In The Bleak Mid Winter
22 There Is No Rose
23 A New Year's Gift (Greensleeves)
24 A Wassail, A Wassail Throughout All This Town!
1 While Shepaherds Watched (Sherburne)
2 The Shepherd's Star
3 A Christmas Carol
4 Joy To The World!
5 The Apple Tree
6 Christmas Hymn: A Virgin Unspotted
7 Away In A Manger (Afton Water)
8 While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night
9 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (Eltham)
10 En Esti Valtaa, Loistoa
11 Still, O Himmel
12 Susser Die Glocken
13 Weihnachtslied
14 Still, Still, Still
15 Gaudete, Christus Est Natus
16 Personent Hodie
17 The Yorkshire Wassail Song
18 Green Grow'th The Holly
19 Here We Come A-Wassailing
20 The Cherry Tree Carol
21 In The Bleak Mid Winter
22 There Is No Rose
23 A New Year's Gift (Greensleeves)
24 A Wassail, A Wassail Throughout All This Town!
If you have information on the year, record company, and tracks for this recording, please email: christmascarolblog@gmail.com
2006
| 1 O Shepherds, Leave Your Goats and Sheep (Trad.) 2 Amor Jesu Dulcissime (Trad.) 3 Praise to That Sweet Little Child (Trad.) 4 Beata Immaculata (Trad.) 5 O Blessed and Holy Bethlehem (Trad.) 6 There Fell a Heavenly Dew (Trad.) 7 Puer Nobis Nascitur (Trad.) 8 Puer Natus in Bethleem (Trad.) 9 With This New Year (Trad.) 10 O Quam Amabilis (Trad.) 11 Resonet in Laudibus (Trad.) 12 Dies Est Laetitiae (Trad.) 13 Where Is Zion's Daughter (Trad.) 14 How Thou Liest Here in Such Cold (Trad.) 15 See How Jesus Cries (Trad.) 16 Shepherds, He Is Born (Trad.) 17 O Electa Caeli Rosa (Trad.) 18 Hurry, O Shepherds (Trad.) 19 O Unexpected Wonder (Trad.) 20 Never Was There a Sweeter Night (Trad.) 21 SSH, Little One, SSH (Trad.) 22 Ah, Do I Find You Here in a Stall (Trad.) 23 Illibata, Ter Beata (Trad.) 24 Let Us Go and Visit (Trad.) 25 Titer, What Good News (Trad.) 26 How This Child Lies Here (Trad.) 27 Let All Sadness Now Flee (Trad.) |
Vesperae in Nativitate Domini
Claudio Monteverdi (1567-1643)
Giovanni Gabrieli (c. 1555-1612)
Chiara Margarita Cozzolani (1602-c. 1677)
Currende
Erik van Nevel
Label: Eufoda
2004
Belonging to the same tradition as the celebrated Weihnachtshistorie of his teacher Schütz, these sacred concertos by Rosenmüller date from the period 1645-50, when the young composer was enjoying a rapid rise to eminence in the good city of Leipzig. Long before his enforced exile in Venice for ‘unnatural vice’, a typically Italian suavity is already clearly perceptible all through these remarkable settings of St Luke’s account of the Nativity. Cantus Cölln returns here to its favourite repertoire, eight years after a first release devoted to the same composer’s Vesper music.JOHANN ROSENMÜLLER [1619-1684]
· Es waren Hirten auf dem Felde bei den Hürden (7'54)
· Nihil novum sub sole (10'49)
· Christus ist mein Leben und Sterben mein ist mein Gewinn (7'08)
· Lieber Herre Gott (3'06)
· Gloria in excelsis Deo (11'12)
· Ich freue mich in Dir und heiße dich willkommen (11'06)
· O Nomen Jesu (3'43)
· Entsetze dich, Natur (21'29)
https://www.harmoniamundi.com/en/albums/weihnachtshistorie/
Imagine yourself in the fine surroundings of the Great Hall of Christ Church, with a programme of Tudor sacred and secular music including music by Henry VIII, one of Christ Church's founders, and choral works by Taverner and others associated with Christ Church during it's first century.
1 Pastime with Good Company
2 Coventry Carol
3 Rorate Coeli
4 Consort No. 3
5 Christe Jesu, Pastor Bone
6 Consort No. 3
7 This Is the Record of John
8 Ave Maria
9 Remember, O Thou Man
10 Consort No. 12
11 While Shepherds Watched
12 From Virgin Pure This Day Did Spring
13 Consort No. 2
14 Laudate Nomen
15 O Nata Lux
16 Magnificat a 4
17 Sweet Was the Song the Virgin Sung
18 Quid Petis O Fili
19 Consort No. 13
20 Hosanna to the Son of David
Gift of Music
2000
| 1 While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night (Tune: Winchester) 2 We Three Kings of Orient Are 3 I Wonder As I Wander 4 Qui Creavit Coelum 5 There Is No Rose of Such Virtue (English) 6 Sonata for 3 Trumpets (After "Joseph, Lieber Joseph Mein") 7 All Hayle to the Days 8 Letabundus 9 There Is No Rose, for Chorus, Op 14 10 Quelle Est Cette Odeur Agr Able? (Whence Is That Goodly Fragrance?) (FR 11 Lullay Thou Tiny Little Child 12 Procendenti Puero-Eya! Novus Anns Est 13 Sonata for 5 Trumpets (After "In Dulci Jubilo") 14 The Lord at First Did Adam Make 15 O Du FR Hliche, O Du Selige, Gnadenbringende Weihnachtszeit, Carol (Tun 16 Lullay, Lullay: As I Lay on Yooles Night 17 Hark! the Herald Angels Sing (Adapted By w. H. Cummings from Mendelssohn |
1999
Marco Scavazza (baritone), Mario Mora (piano), Francesco Moi (organ), Marcello Vargetto (bass), Paolo Costa (alto), Giovanni Caccamo (tenor)
Delitiae Musicae, Piccoli Musici, I, Marco Longhini
Willaert: Deus in adjutorium
Marco Scavazza
I Piccoli Musici
Willaert: Andrea Gabrrielli
Francesco Moi
Intonazione Dell' Ottavo Tono
Willaert: Dixit Dominus
Marcello Vargetto, Marco Scavazza, Paolo Costa, Giovanni Caccamo
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Marco Longhini
Willaert: Confitebor Tibi Domine
Marcello Vargetto, Marco Scavazza, Paolo Costa, Giovanni Caccamo
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Marco Longhini
Willaert: Ricercare No. 10
Delitiae Musicae
Willaert: Beatus Vir
Marcello Vargetto, Marco Scavazza, Paolo Costa, Giovanni Caccamo
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Marco Longhini
Willaert: Jesu Redemptor Omnium
This work is only available as an album download.
Marco Scavazza, Marcello Vargetto, Paolo Costa, Giovanni Caccamo
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Marco Longhini
Jesu Redemptor Omnium
Tu Lumen
Tu Lumen
This track is only available as an album download.
Willaert: De Profundis Clamavit
Marcello Vargetto, Marco Scavazza, Paolo Costa, Giovanni Caccamo
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Marco Longhini
Willaert: Tecum Principium
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Marco Longhini
Willaert: Memento Domine David
Marco Scavazza, Paolo Costa, Giovanni Caccamo, Marcello Vargetto
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Marco Longhini
Willaert: Ricercare No. 1
Delitiae Musicae
Willaert: Hodie Christus
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Marco Longhini
Willaert: Dominus Vobiscum
Marco Scavazza
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Bible, Adrian Willaert: Benedicamus
Paolo Costa
Delitiae Musicae
Marco Longhini
Willaert: Magnificat
Marcello Vargetto, Marco Scavazza, Paolo Costa, Giovanni Caccamo
Delitiae Musicae, I Piccoli Musici
Marco Longhini
1998
No one has recorded more innovative Christmas anthologies than Andrew Parrott--and this disc is no exception. The Promise of Ages presents a collection of wonderful seasonal music arranged for women's voices (all arrangements were either made or sanctioned by the composers).
The selection includes 15th-century English works such as "There is no rose of swych vertu"; traditional tunes both genuine ("Deck the Halls" in an 18th-century Welsh arrangement for harp) and fake (J. J. Niles's "I Wonder as I Wander" and "Lullay, thou little tiny child"); rollicking Irish dance tunes; and 20th-century works by such composers as Britten, Holst, and Judith Weir on traditional Christmas texts. One ingenious and effective suite combines Peter Maxwell Davies's "O magnum mysterium" and "The Fader of Heven" with the 14th-century "Song of the Nuns of Chester."
All of the performances are exemplary, but Emily van Evera deserves special praise for her beautifully simple rendition of the Niles tunes. This collection can stand alongside Parrott's The Carol Album as the thinking person's Christmas albums. --Matthew Westphal
1 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
2 Nos Galan (Deck the Hall)
3 Lullay, Thou Tiny Little Child
4 Ther Is No Rose of Swych Vertu
5 I Sing of a Maiden
6 There Is No Rose from "A Ceremony of Carols"
7 O magnum mysterium (Responsory at Matins for Christmas Day)
8 Song of the Nuns of Chester "Qui creavit celum" verses 1-3
9 The Fader of Heven (ca. 1450 mystery play)
10 Song of the Nuns of Chester "Lactat mater Domini" verses 4-6
11 O magnum mysterium (Responsory at Matins for Christmas Day)
12 Lullay, Lullow: I Saw a Swete Semly Syght
13 I Wonder as I Wander - Emily van Evera
14 Staines Morris (Blessed be that maid Marie)
15 Hayl, Mary, Ful of Grace
16 The Seven Joys of Mary
17 Illuminare, Jerusalem
18 Good People All, This Christmastide
19 Sing We the Virgin Mary
20 In Bethlehem City - New London Chamber Choir
21 Christmas Eve
22 Hodie Christus natus est (Antiphon from Chester Processional)
23 Jesu, Thou the Virgin-born
24 As Dew in Aprille from " A Ceremony of Carols"
25 Lo! he Comes, with Clouds Descending - New London Chamber Choir
1 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
2 Nos Galan (Deck the Hall)
3 Lullay, Thou Tiny Little Child
4 Ther Is No Rose of Swych Vertu
5 I Sing of a Maiden
6 There Is No Rose from "A Ceremony of Carols"
7 O magnum mysterium (Responsory at Matins for Christmas Day)
8 Song of the Nuns of Chester "Qui creavit celum" verses 1-3
9 The Fader of Heven (ca. 1450 mystery play)
10 Song of the Nuns of Chester "Lactat mater Domini" verses 4-6
11 O magnum mysterium (Responsory at Matins for Christmas Day)
12 Lullay, Lullow: I Saw a Swete Semly Syght
13 I Wonder as I Wander - Emily van Evera
14 Staines Morris (Blessed be that maid Marie)
15 Hayl, Mary, Ful of Grace
16 The Seven Joys of Mary
17 Illuminare, Jerusalem
18 Good People All, This Christmastide
19 Sing We the Virgin Mary
20 In Bethlehem City - New London Chamber Choir
21 Christmas Eve
22 Hodie Christus natus est (Antiphon from Chester Processional)
23 Jesu, Thou the Virgin-born
24 As Dew in Aprille from " A Ceremony of Carols"
25 Lo! he Comes, with Clouds Descending - New London Chamber Choir
2002
Unlike many other great composers of the Renaissance, whose work lay in relative obscurity until the twentieth century, Palestrina's fame continued unabated from his lifetime to the present day. There are several reasons for this. The first is that he was, in fact, one of the greatest composers of the late Renaissance. The other is his association with the musical reforms of the Council of Trent, and the exaggerated allegation that he somehow single-handedly saved polyphonic church music.
—Angela Mariani.
1. O magnum mysterium (prima pars) 3:33
2. Quem vidistis pastores (secunda pars) 3:25
3. Ave Maria 3:43
4. Vidi turbam magnam (prima pars) 4:13
5. Et omnes Angeli (secunda pars) 3:28
6. Loquebantur variis linguis 4:14
7. Tu es Petrus 4:24
Missa O Magnum Mysterium
8. Kyrie 3:53
9. Gloria 6:20
10. Credo 9:48
11. Sanctus, Benedictus 7:33
12. Agnus Dei 4:36
The end of the 15th century in Spain saw a consolidation of power and a resulting political stability. The marriage of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castille brought about a union of these two kingdoms in 1479. Granada, the last Muslim stronghold, was conquered in 1492, the same year in which Columbus set out on a voyage of discovery which took him to what would later be known as the Americas.
Thus, the Spanish Renaissance, the Siglo de Oro ("Golden Age"), and the period from which the pieces on this recording are taken, began with Spain at the height of political and military strength.
—Felix Cox
From "Villancicos de diversos autores" Venice, 1556 - Anonymous
1. Verbum caro factum est 1:09
2. No la deuemos dormir 1:16
3. Alta Reyna soberana 1:44
4. Yo me soy la morenica 1:47
5. Señores, el qu’es nascido 1:51
6. Riu, riu chiu 2:57
7. Dadme al bricias 1:22
From "Canciones y villanescas espirituales" Venice 1589 - Francisco Guerrero (1528-1599)
8. Oyd, oyd una cosa 2:03
9. Vamos al portal 3:24
10. Zagales, sin seso vengo 2:10
11. Virgen sancta 3:40
12. A un niño llorando 2:38
13. Canite tuba - Francisco Guerrero 2:25
14. Rorate caeli - Francisco Guerrero 2:20
15. Veni Domine - Cristobal de Morales
(c.1500-1553) 2:21
16. Ave Maria - Tomás Luis de Victoria
(1548-1611) 1:57
17. Ne timeas Maria - Tomás Luis de Victoria 4:09
18. Pastores loquebantur - Francisco Guerrero 3:21
19. Tria sunt munera - Juan Esquivel
(c.1565-after 1613) 1:41
20. O magnum mysterium - Tomás Luis de Victoria 3:45
Missa O magnum mysterium - Tomás Luis de Victoria
21. Kyrie 1:52
22. Gloria 3:40
23. Credo 5:20
24. Sanctus/Benedictus 4:13
25. Agnus Dei 2:06
—Felix Cox
From "Villancicos de diversos autores" Venice, 1556 - Anonymous
1. Verbum caro factum est 1:09
2. No la deuemos dormir 1:16
3. Alta Reyna soberana 1:44
4. Yo me soy la morenica 1:47
5. Señores, el qu’es nascido 1:51
6. Riu, riu chiu 2:57
7. Dadme al bricias 1:22
From "Canciones y villanescas espirituales" Venice 1589 - Francisco Guerrero (1528-1599)
8. Oyd, oyd una cosa 2:03
9. Vamos al portal 3:24
10. Zagales, sin seso vengo 2:10
11. Virgen sancta 3:40
12. A un niño llorando 2:38
13. Canite tuba - Francisco Guerrero 2:25
14. Rorate caeli - Francisco Guerrero 2:20
15. Veni Domine - Cristobal de Morales
(c.1500-1553) 2:21
16. Ave Maria - Tomás Luis de Victoria
(1548-1611) 1:57
17. Ne timeas Maria - Tomás Luis de Victoria 4:09
18. Pastores loquebantur - Francisco Guerrero 3:21
19. Tria sunt munera - Juan Esquivel
(c.1565-after 1613) 1:41
20. O magnum mysterium - Tomás Luis de Victoria 3:45
Missa O magnum mysterium - Tomás Luis de Victoria
21. Kyrie 1:52
22. Gloria 3:40
23. Credo 5:20
24. Sanctus/Benedictus 4:13
25. Agnus Dei 2:06
If you have information on the year, record company, and tracks for this recording, please email: christmascarolblog@gmail.com
1995
Conifer Records
1995
The rebirth of Gallican chant.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, in the heyday of the 'Baroque', the Church of France attempted to revive the old Gallican chant which had been absorbed into the great so-called 'Gregorian' repertoire. An example of this is provided by the plainchant Mass of the Nativity recorded here, a gem of its kind.
ANONYMOUS · I. Introït : Parvulus natus est nobis (5'53) · II. Kyrie eleïson (10'21) · III. Gloria in excelsis Deo (20'12) · IV. Graduel : Recordatus est Domine (2'08) · V. Alleluia : Verbum caro factus est (2'25) · VI. Prose : Votis Pater annuit (3'58) · VII. Offertoire : Hostias et oblationes (1'39) · VIII. Préface (1'44) · IX. Sanctus (6'46) · X. Motet au Saint-Sacrement : O salutaris Hostia (4'57) · XI. Agnus Dei (6'32) · XII. Communion : In hoc apparuit caritas Dei (1'45) · XIII. Ite missa est (0'22) · XIV. Deo gratias (0'27) · XV. Postludium (2'39)
HARMONIA MUNDI
https://www.harmoniamundi.com/en/albums/mass-for-christmas-day/
1990
Beautiful performances ... consummate musicianship. I
recommend this recording without reservation (Viola da Gamba Society of America).
recommend this recording without reservation (Viola da Gamba Society of America).
2 Christe Qui Lux a 4, for Instrumental Consort No. 3
3 Sing Unto God, for 2 to 5 Voices & Organ
4 Upon My Lap
5 Fantasia a 5, for Instrumental Consort in C Major
6 O Ye Little Flock, Verse Anthem for 4 & 6 Voices
7 Browning a 5, for Instrumental Consort ('The Leaves Bee Greene')
8 Sweet Was the Song the Virgin Sung
9 The Cradle, for Consort
10 Almighty God, Which By the Leading of a Star (The Starre Anthem)
11 Lullaby, My Sweet Little Baby, Madrigal for 5 Voices (Ssatb) & Viols
12 In Nomine a 5, No.2, for Viols, MB28
13 See, the Word Is Incarnate, Anthem for Voices
1989
Schütz's Christmas Story is the proto-Christmas-Oratorio, firmly establishing conventions (tenor-narrator singing freely composed recitative; chorus members taking the parts of characters and crowds) that lasted through Bach's time and beyond. But there's more than just historical interest: the episodes for the Angel, shepherds, Three Kings, and other characters (each with its own characteristic instruments) are captivating. John Mark Ainsley is a solid but slightly thick-voiced Evangelist; Ruth Holton sounds convincingly boy-like as the Angel, yet her spectacular singing is anything but immature. The rest of the King's Consort is flat-out terrific. Speaking of terrific, their performance of four multiple-choir Christmas motets for varied combinations of soloists, brass, and strings is as exciting as any Gabrieli performance on disc. --Matthew Westphal
Most people think of Christmas carols as originating from ancient--or at least olden-times, and indeed, many of the most enduring ones have survived for many centuries. Andrew Parrott and his Taverner Consort take us back seven centuries, in fact, and thoughtfully mix the old tunes ("Swete was the song," "This endere nyghth," "Nova! nova!") with more recent tunes. Parrott's musicians offer interesting takes on such familiar carols as "Silent Night" and "God rest ye merry, gentlemen." "Silent Night" sounds like an Austrian folk tune, complete with guitar accompaniment that reportedly was used in its original performance; "God rest ye..." is performed in the style of an English country church congregation--and uses a different tune from the one we usually hear. Various period instruments add to the color and flavor, and the arrangements are original and very effective. --David Vernier
1 Veni, Veni Emmanuel
2 Stille Nacht
3 Il Est Ne, Le Divin Enfant
4 Nova! Nova!
5 Marche Des Rois
6 The Babe Of Bethlehem
7 Verbum Caro: Y La Virgen
8 Glory To God On High
9 This Endere Nyghth
10 O Jesulein Suss
11 Il Est Ne, Le Divin Enfant
12 God Rest You Merry, Gentleman
13 Swete Was The Song The Virgine Soong
14 Quem Pastores Laudavere
15 Quanno Nascete Ninno
16 Riu, Riu, Chiu
17 Gabriel Fram Heven-King
18 Christum Wir Sollen Loben Schon
19 The Coventry Carol
20 Gaudete!
21 Verbum Caro: In Hac Anni Circulo
22 Alleluya: A Nywe Werk Is Come On Honde
23 The Old Year Now Away Is Fled
24 Branle De L'Officiel (Ding! Dong! Merrily On High)
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1 I. Rejoice, Rejoice: Nowell: Dieus Vous Garde 2 I. Rejoice, Rejoice: Gaudete, Gaudete 3 II. Behold The Handmaiden: Reading Luke I, 18-22 4 II. Behold The Handmaiden: Kyrie Eleison 5 II. Behold The Handmaiden: E La Don Don 6 II. Behold The Handmaiden: Two Fant On 'Une Heune Fillete' 7 III. Joseph Is Well Married: Une Jeune Fillete 8 III. Joseph Is Well Married: Joseph, Lieber Joseph Mein 9 III. Joseph Is Well Married: Magnificant Quinti Toni 10 IV. The Birth Of Jesus: Esprits Divins 11 IV. The Birth Of Jesus: Reading: Luke II, 17-19 12 IV. The Birth Of Jesus: Es Ist Ein Ros' Entsprungen 13 IV. The Birth Of Jesus: Riu, Riu, Chiu 14 V. Herod And The Magi: Wie Schon Leuchet Der Morgenstern 15 V. Herod And The Magi: Reading: Luke III, 4-12 - The Boston Camerata/Joel Cohen T 16 V. Herod And The Magi: O Vos Omnes 17 VI. The Shepards At The Cradle: Reading: Luke II, 20-21 18 VI. The Shepards At The Cradle: Ungaresca 19 VI. The Shepards At The Cradle: Nouvelles, Novelles - The Boston Camerata/Joel Cohen T 1987  1. Puer natus est nobis 2. Nowell, nowell: In Bethlem 3. Gaudete 4. Nesciens Mater 5. The Song of the Nuns of Chester 6. Coventry Carol 7. The Boar's Head Carol 8. Videte miraculum from Continent 9. Quem pastores laudavere 10. Pueri, concinite 11. O magnum mysterium 12. resonet in laudibus 13. In dulci jubilo 14. Riu, riu chiu 15. Nesciens Mater 16.Omnes de Saba DISC 1 1. Greeting 2. In Thee is Gladness 3. Magnificat noni toni, from Tabulatura Nova 4. Vetrate di Chiesa 5. Unexpected and Mysterious 6. Litany: Laudes Creaturum 7. Reading: Joseph Brodsky (1940-1996) 8. Hodie aperuit (III from The Hildegard Motets) 9. Ave Maria 10. The Spheres (from Sunrise Mass) 11. People Look East 12. Readings: Gospel of John and Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179) 13. Gloria 14. O beatum et sacrosanctum diem 15. Sonata pian'e forte 16. A Child is Born 17. In Thee Is Gladness DISC 2 1. Reading: John Donne (1572-1631) 2. Vetrate di chiesa 3. Lullaby Carol (2005) 4. With Crowded Lamps (from Lumen Christi) 5. Sing We Now of Christmas 6. Carol of the Magi 7. The First Nowell 8. Reading: St. Fancis of Assisi 9. Riu, Riu, Chiu 10. Illumina le tenebre (Prayer before the Crucifix) 11. Prayer of Saint Frances 12. Sending Prayers 13. O Come, All Ye Faithful  Produced in association with the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this colorful disc celebrates the winter holiday with Renaissance carols and noels. Selections include: Green grow'th the holly and Taunder Naken from the Songbook of Henry VIII, noels by Busnois, Dufay and Brumel, 15th- century English carols, late Renaissance motets, lute songs, villancicos and instrumental dances by Palestrina, Attey, Arbeau and Praetorius' Es ist ein' Ros' entsprungen. This full color cover features The Annunciation (detail) by Botticelli from The Metropolitan Museum of Art. A generous twenty page booklet includes notes and complete texts with parallel English translations. 65 minutes. Artists: Todd Frizzell - tenor & harp; Wayne Hankin - winds & tenor; Dan Rigazzi - tenor; Mark Rimple - alto & lute; Mark Sullivan - bass-baritone; Jon Szabo - bass-baritone & vielle 2006  
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