2015: Working List of Classical and Choral Christmas Recordings

2015 Classical Christmas Recordings

Reformatted and updated October 27, 2024. Updates Jan. 9, 2026.

Below is a list of Christmas classical recordings from 2015. They are not reviews. Descriptions have been taken from the recording company's or ensembles' own description. The list is neither exhaustive nor complete. If we left you out, let us know as we can edit you in.

 Label: harmonia mundi

November 14, 2014

Luther College Recordings is proud to announce the newest album from the Luther College Music Department, "Christmas at Luther 2014: And on Earth, Peace." The annual installment of the Christmas at Luther soundtracks is available now as pre-order through the Luther College Book Shop at www.lutherbookshop.com or by phone (888) 521-5039. The album will be available in store and shipped out for pre-orders on Dec. 18.
The new album will be recorded at this year's concerts featuring holiday favorites "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" and "Glory to God" from Handel's "Messiah," a new arrangement of "Silent Night" by John Rutter and portions of "Dona Nobis Pacem" by Ralph Vaughan Williams.

The theme, "And on Earth, Peace," is taken from the introductory piece of the same name by Luther alumnus Daniel Kallman, class of 1978, originally commissioned for the 1995 Christmas at Luther concerts. The theme of peace is woven throughout the entire concert, describing the constant struggle for peace on earth, and includes a special acknowledgement of the 100-year anniversary of the Christmas Truce of 1914 where German and Allied troops stopped fighting on Christmas Eve and celebrated the holy day of Jesus' birth.

More than 600 musicians in the college's vocal and instrumental ensembles present their gifts of music performing in the world-class concert hall, the Luther College Center for Faith and Life. The 2014 performances feature all six college choirs, the Symphony Orchestra, organ and the Luther Ringers.
Each year more than 8,000 people attend the Christmas at Luther performances on the Luther campus in Decorah, Iowa. In the past, the concert has been broadcast on almost 94 percent of PBS television stations nationwide. The 2012 Emmy-nominated performance Christmas at Luther: "Tidings of Comfort and Joy" will air again this holiday season on PBS. The concert is featured annually as a holiday special on Minnesota Public Radio and Iowa Public Radio. Check listings for local broadcasts.

Luther is home to one of the largest collegiate music programs in the world with six choirs, three bands, three orchestras, two jazz bands and numerous chamber ensembles, totaling nearly 1,000 student musicians. Luther's students perform in large ensembles, faculty-coached chamber groups, private lessons and master classes. More than 300 music majors study music theory/ear training, history, education, composition, church music and performance.

 

 

1) And on Earth, Peace
2) Narration
Selections from Messiah,Handel
3) Soprano Recitatives
4) Glory to God in the Highest
5) Machet Die Tore Weit
6) Come, Lord Jesus
7) Prelude on "Mendelssohn"
8) Gloria (from Mass in Time of War, Hob. XXII:9
9) The Star Carol
10) Our Father
11) Hodie
12) Noel
13) Mary's Lullaby
14) Child of God
15) The Angel Gabriel From Heaven Came
16) The Virgin Mary Had a Baby
17) In the Bleak Midwinter
18)O Day of Peace
19) Farandole (from L'arlesienne Suite No. 2)
20) There is No Rose
21) My Lord Has Come
22) Silent Night
22) Dona Nobis Pacem, Mmt. VI

2015 AND ON EARTH PEACE - CD

The 104th St. Olaf Christmas Festival.

 

Disc 1

 

1. Messiah, Price of Peace -- Daniel Kallman (6:50)

2. Unexpected and Mysterious -- Calvin Hampton, arr. John Ferguson (3:37)

3. Narration -- Pastor Matthew Marohl (0:51)

4. All Earth Is Hopeful (Toda La Tierra) -- Alberto Taulé, arr. James E. Bobb (2:32)

5. Hark, The Glad Sound -- Thomas Haweis, adapt. Samuel Webbe, arr. John Ferguson (4:09)

6. Gloria (Movement 1) -- Francis Poulenc (2:34)

7. The Snow -- Sir Edward Elgar (5:00)

8. And You Will Sleep -- Philip Biedenbender '16 (4:41)

9. Gloria (Messe Solennelle) -- Jean Langlais, orch. James E. Bobb (4:40)

10. O Holy Child -- Michael Cox (1:45)

11. Gaudete! -- Michael Engelhardt (4:34)

12. It Came Upon the Midnight Clear -- Richard S. Willis, arr. Charles Forsberg (2:09)

13. Gospel Reading: Luke 2:1-20 -- Pastors Matthew Marohl and Katherine Fick (2:52)

14. It Came Upon the Midnight Clear -- arr. John E. Wade, Richard S. Willis, arr. Charles Forsberg (2:03)

 

Disc 2

 

1. Sing Lullaby -- Basque Noël, arr. Sir David Willcocks (2:56)

2. The Hands That First Held Mary's Child -- Dan Forrest (4:29)

3. in Excelsis Gloria ('Twas in the Moon of Wintertime) -- Une Jeune Pucelle, Vom Himmel Hoch, Veni, Emmanuel, arr. Christopher Aspaas (4:01)

4. Love Came Down at Christmas -- Nancy Waller Grundahl (3:15)

5. O Little Town of Bethlehem -- Kenneth Jennings (2:31)

6. Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow -- Tradtional Spiritual, arr. André J. Thomas (3:13)

7. Tyrley Tyrlow (Three Carols) -- Peter Warlock (1:56)

8. Joyous Noel -- Steven Amundson (3:32)

9. Your Little Ones, Dear Lord -- Johann A.P. Schulz, arr. Charles Forsberg (2:55)

10. Carols From Around the World -- setting by Carolyn Jennings (5:02)

11. Glorification (Celestial Spring) -- F. Melius Christiansen (2:24)

12. Narration -- Pastor Matthew Marohl (0:40)

13. Dona Nobis Pacem (Final Chorus) -- Ralph Vaughan Williams (6:38)

14. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing -- Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, arr. John Ferguson (3:11)

15. Narration -- Pastor Matthew Marohl (0:25)

16. It Is Well With My Soul -- Philip P. Bliss, arr. Yu-Shan Tsai, orch. Charles Forsberg (4:10)

17. Beautiful Savior -- Silesian folk tune, arr. F. Melius Christiansen (1:45)

This is the premiere recording of J.S. Bach's Magnificat heard for the first time within its original liturgical context, alongside the beautiful Christmas Cantata.

Dunedin Consort recreates Bach's first Christmas at Leipzig (Vespers in the Nikolaikirche, 25 December 1723); the recording opens with a Gabrieli motet and includes organ preludes and a seasonal congregational chorale.

Director John Butt has given listeners an interpretation that will provide a refreshing outlook on this masterpiece and will show the Magnificat in a completely new light.

This recording marks the return of Dunedin Consort's star-studded cast including, Nicholas Mulroy, Matthew Brook, Joanne Lunn and Clare Wilkinson plus newcomer Julia Doyle.

Butt's liturgical reconstruction of Bach's John Passion was named a 'Critics' Choice' by BBC Radio 3 'CD Review' and Gramophone, as well as being named 'Recording of the Month' by three publications.

Label: Lin Records

Label: Tantara Records

The Brigham Young University Choirs have four auditioned groups: the BYU Singers, the Concert Choir, the Men's Chorus, and the Women's Chorus, and each December they come together along with the BYU Philharmonic for the "Celebration of Christmas" concert, which has combined the spiritual, traditional, and international aspects of Christmas into one joyous concert, with music as timeless as Christmas itself. These concert celebrations, which have been nationally broadcast on television since 1993, are a seasonal favorite at Brigham Young University and across the United States. ""Carol of Joy"" is the 6th in a series of fantastic BYU Choirs ""Celebration of Christmas"" albums, which showcase not only the talent and artistry of these students and their directors but also their strong personal and spiritual connection to the repertoire which they are performing.

Formed 900 years ago, the St Paul’s Cathedral Choir – one of the world’s most celebrated cathedral choirs – finally makes their debut on Decca with an album of traditional and brand new festive carols from the heart of London, under the direction of Andrew Carwood.

On this album, old and new sit side by side as classic carols in famous arrangements rub shoulders with new works such as Philip Stopford’s beautiful setting of the 16th Century Lully Lulla Lullay, and Graham Jordan Ellis’s captivating There Is No Rose which is rarely recorded. Other works new to Decca include the lively Carol of the Bells and John Rutter’s ravishing All Bells in Paradise.

The Cathedral of St Paul’s in London is among the world’s most recognized buildings, in the very heart of London. The Choir sings 7 services a week, added to which are televised UK state occasions held at St. Paul’s, ranging from the wedding of Charles and Diana to the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

In addition to its role at services in this world-famous Cathedral, the Choir frequently gives concerts and broadcasts, notably a 3-week, 7-state sell-out tour of the USA earlier in 2015.
St. Paul’s Cathedral Choir presents a survey of festive works: old favourites and mingle in a fine Christmas album perfect for the Festive Season. Featuring cherished carols from Classic FM’s annual “Nation’s Favourite Carols” poll as well as new discoveries making their first appearance on Decca.

1. arr. Rutter, Adam: O Holy Night
2. anon., arr Carter
3. arr. Carter: Angelus ad virginem
4. Berloiz: L'Enfance de Christ, Op. 25 - L'Adieu des bergers
5. Britten: A New Year Carol
6. Ellis, G.: There is no Rose
7. Gauntlett, arr. Willcocks: Once in Royal David's City
8. Gruber, F.: Silent Night
9. Hadley, P.: I sing of a maiden
10. Holst: In the bleak mid-winder (Cranham)
11. Leontovich, arr. Willcocks: Hark! the herald angels sing
12. Ord: Adam lay ybounden
13. Rutter: All bells in paradise
14. Stopford: Lully, lulla, lullay
15. Trad., : Ding dong! merrily on high (arr. Wood)
16. arr. Vaughan Williams: O little town of Bethlehem
17. Wade, J F. : O Come, all ye faithful
18. Warlock: Benedicmus Domino

Label: Linn Barnes and Alliison Hampton

A compilation of our favorite Celtic and Christmas music, as performed annually at the Dumbarton Concert Series "A Celtic Christmas" concerts in Washington, DC for over 30 years.

1. Tomorrow Shall be My Dancing Day
2. Love Came Down at Christmas
3. In Dulcie Jubilo
4. Muineirea de Chantadamuineira De Poio
5. The Shades of Notre Dame
6. The Must Covered Moutains
7. Once in Royal David's City
8. People Look East
9. In the Bleak Midwinter
10. Saltarello Pour Une Belle Dame Desespere
11. Fraher'garrett Barry's
12. We Thre Kinds
13. Out on the Oceancalliope House
14. Merrily On High
15. Sussex Carol
16. Silent Night
17. Espanoieta
18. The Maid Behind the Barthe Hills of Clogher
19. Deck the Halls

Label: K-Tel

Rerelease. Org. 2009

Product Description

Blessed with a crystal-clear voice, exquisite diction and a natural lyricism, Fritz Wunderlich remains hugely admired, 50 years after his death, by fellow musicians and in his native Germany. For example, BBC Music Magazine placed Wunderlich among the Top 4 Tenors in the World, along with Plácido Domingo, Enrico Caruso and Luciano Pavarotti.

This album combines traditional classical Christmas songs and carols with excerpts from Wunderlich s legendary recording of Bach s Christmas Oratorio featuring Gundula Jannowitz and Christa Ludwig, conducted by Karl Richter. It makes an ideal soundtrack to the festive season for anyone looking to discover a new voice.

CD in digipack with golden imprinting

50th Anniversary of death September 17, 2016

Booklet with new liner notes by Barbara Wunderlich, the youngest daughter of the tenor.

This is a new compilation of Wunderlich s best Christmas recordings!

Review

His voice is seamless from the top to bottom; like a tree, soundly rooted, with strong trunk and spreading branches. The sound is beautiful and concentrated and has breadth and richness at the same time... --Rolando Villazon on Fritz Wunderlich

1. Stille Nacht (Gruber)

  2. Das Weihnachtsoratorium: 1. Chor: Jauchzet, frohlocket!

  3. Das Weihnachtsoratorium: 2. Rezitativ (Evangelist): Es begab sich aber zu der Zeit

  4. Es ist ein Ros entsprungen (Volksweise)

  5. O Freude über Freude (Volksweise)

  6. Ich steh an deiner Krippen hier (Volksweise)

  7. Concerto in D für Tromba, 2 Oboen, 2 Fagotte und B.c.: Tempo di Menuetto

  8. Es kommt ein Schiff (Volksweise)

  9. Das Weihnachtsoratorium: 15. Arie (Tenor): Frohe Hirten, eilt, ach eilet

  10. Was soll es bedeuten (Volksweise)

  11. Vom Himmel hoch, o Englein kommt (Volksweise)

  12. Das Weihnachtsoratorium: 41. Arie (Tenor) Ich will nur dir zu ehren leben

  13. Sonata A-dur für 2 Oboen d amore und B.c: Siziliano

  14. Maria durch ein Dornwald ging (Volksweise)

  15. Das Weihnachtsoratorium: 50. Rezitativ: Und ließ versammeln alle Hohenpriester

  16. Das Weihnachtsoratorium: 51. Terzett (Sopran, Alt, Tenor): Ach, wann wird die Zeit erscheinen?

  17. Still, still, still (Volksweise)

  18. Das Weihnachtsoratorium: 60. Rezitativ: Und Gott befahl ihnen im Traum

  19. Das Weihnachtsoratorium: 61. Rezitativ: So geht! Genug, mein Schatz geht nicht von hier

  20. Das Weihnachtsoratorium: 62. Arie (Tenor): Nun mögt ihr stolzen Feinde schrecken.

  21. In dulci jubilo

Label: Deutsche Grammophon

1. The Angel Gabriel Basque Tune

2. Sweet Was the Song the Virgin Sang
3. Lullay My Liking
4. Hymn to the Virgin
5. As It Fell on Holy Eve (Lute Galliard) - Cantores Michaelis/Elizabeth Kenny
6. Lullay Lula
7. The New Year's Gift (Lute Galliard) - Cantores Michaelis/Elizabeth Kenny
8. Adam Lay y Bounden B Ord
9. There Is No Rose
10. Torches
11. Make We Joy
12. Adeste Fidelis
13. A Babe Is Born P Racine
14. Away in a Manger
15. Balulalow
16. O Little Town of Bethlehem
17. Stille Nacht
18. The Blessed Son of God
19. V
20. Good King Wenceslas
21. Deck the Halls
22. We Three Kings
23. Drei König
24. Ding Dong Merrily on High
25. Jingle Bells
26. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
27. We’Ve Been Awhile A-Wandering

 A most unusual collection of early 20th-century original English carols and carol arrangements by Peter Warlock, Gustav Holst, and Ralph Vaughan Williams, sung by the excellent mixed choir of Christ s College, Cambridge directed by David Rowland. This is the choir s eighth recording on the Regent label and includes a selection of nine well-known carols by Warlock, a set of four lesser-known carol arrangements, and the ever-popular Lully my liking by Holst.

1. WARLOCK: As dew in Aprylle

  2. Benedicamus Domino

  3. Bethlehem Down

  4. A Cornish Carol

  5. I saw a fair maiden

  6. Cornish Christmas Carol

  7. Adam lay ybounden

  8. Balulalow

  9. Where riches is everlastingly

  10. HOLST: Four Old English Carols

  11. Lullay my liking

  12. VAUGHAN WILLIAMS: The Blessed Son of God (from Hodie, 1954)

  13. No sad thought (from Hodie)

  14. Eight Traditional English Carols (1919) (premiere)

• 
  

1

Once in royal David’s City – Henry John Gauntlett, arr David Willcocks

2:50

2

Ding! dong! merrily on high – French trad 16th c, arr Mack Wilberg

2:52

3

Stille Nacht – Franz Gruber, arr Geoffrey Webber

4:07

4

Angelus ad virginem – Anon 14th c, arr Carol Barnett

2:35

5

The Little Road to Bethlehem – Michael Head

3:27

6

Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer – Johnny Marks, arr Sarah MacDonald 2:42 Wexford Carol – Irish trad, arr John Rutter

4:33

7

The seven joys of Mary – English trad, arr William Whitehead

4:32

8

Rocking – trad Czech, arr Edward Higginbottom

2:30

9

Away in a manger – William James Kirkpatrick, arr Philip Moore

3:09

10

In dulci jubilo – German 16th c, arr Moore

3:57

11

Huron Carol – trad Canadian, arr MacDonald

3:59

12

Wassail Carol – William Mathias

2:07

13

See amid the winter’s snow – John Goss, arr Willcocks

5:01

14

Cradle Song – Richard Causton

3:04

15

We three kings – John Henry Hopkins, arr Philip Stopford

4:02

16

O little town of Bethlehem – Henry Walford Davies

4:43

17

Santa Claus is coming to town – John Frederick Coots and Haven Gillespie, arr MacDonald

4:24

18

White Christmas – Irving Berlin, arr MacDonald

3:36

19

O come, all ye faithful – Anon, arr Willcocks

4:47

20

Hark! the herald-angels sing – Felix Mendelssohn, arr Willcocks

3:02 

Christmas in Medieval England allows listeners to share the beauty, excitement, intensity, and variety found in a Blue Heron concert performance. 

The program includes plainchant, carols, and other music for Advent and Christmas from 15th c. England. It is comprised entirely of tracks recorded live at First Church in Cambridge, Congregational in December 2013. 

The appeal of this recording to fans of Blue Herons first disc (BHCD1001) containing music of 15th c. France should prove strong. Blue Heron took an atypically energetic approach to medieval sacred vocal works, which are often performed with an all too respectful and reserved detachment. 

From the antiphonal chants to the simple songs and hymns that filled out their well-balanced program Friday night at First Church in Cambridge, Blue Heron harnessed a lively sense of phrasing and perfectly suited dynamics that gave this repertoire a sense of e motional investment. (Boston Classical Review | Dec. 21, 2013)

Review: "The superb vocalists progress from Advent to Christmas Day, switching easily between Latin and Old English..."

"...A listener then would have been lucky to hear these works brought off with such panache. The program is by turns pensive and lively, and the scholarship required to evoke stylistic accuracy is put totally at the service of performance. There's a deeply affecting edge to the singing..."

--David Allen, New York Times, December 21, 2015

"...Metcalfe aims for expressive intent within an appropriate stylistic framework. That noted, some of the album's most impressive work occurs outside the context of the most emotionally immediate. The Agnus Dei from the anonymous Missa Veterem hominem, for example, is in its subtle manipulation of balance and shifting dynamics, an excellent example of what Blue Heron has achieved on a much greater scale..."

"...Strongly recommended, for music and performances alike..." --Barry Brenesal, Fanfare Magazine, March/April 2016

Label: Blue Heron

Track Listing

Advent

1 Veni, veni Emanuel (4:41)

Annunciation

2 Angelus ad virginem / Gabriel from Heven-King (7:26)

3 Gaude virgo salutata / Gaude virgo singularis — John Dunstaple (4:52)

4 Hayl Mary, ful of grace (5:03)

5 Gloria (Old Hall MS, no. 21) — Leonel Power (3:38)

6 Ther is no rose of swych vertu (3:49)

7 Ibo michi ad montem mirre — Leonel Power (3:25)

Christmas Eve

8 Veni redemptor gencium — Sarum plainchant (3:14)

Christmas Day

9 Dominus dixit ad me — Sarum plainchant (2:13)

10 Nowel: Owt of your slepe aryse (3:56)

11 Gloria (Old Hall MS, no. 27) — Pycard (2:41)

12 Ecce quod natura (4:12)

13 Missa Veterem hominem: Sanctus (7:04)

14 Ave rex angelorum (2:58)

15 Missa Veterem hominem: Agnus dei (6:39)

16 Nowel syng we bothe al and som (2:51)

17 Nova, nova! Ave fit ex Eva (2:50)

https://www.blueheron.org/recordings/cds/christmas-in-medieval-england/

Label: Nimbus Records

Label: Avie Records

“Charged with all Apollo’s Fire’s signature energy… a spark that grows into a blaze as the programme progresses: two soprano soloists battle with ferocious elegance in the Gloria, a syncopated chorus leads us in a wild dance of rejoicing in Puer natus in Bethlehem, while Sorrell’s instrumentalists shine in the orchestral dances from Terpsichore. What Apollo’s Fire do so uniquely well here is capture the homespun spirit of music intended to unite a congregation. A disc that leads with its personality – generous and all-embracing…”
–GRAMOPHONE
“Delectable… virtually made to herald the joy of the Christmas season. Succeeds admirably. Sheer delight.”
–THE NEW YORK TIMES
“Homeliness and heart, and plenty of sparkle and Monteverdian blaze, too. Praetorius, a giant of Protestant church music, would surely have approved.”
–THE IRISH TIMES
“Magnificent… a musical gift to treasure.”
–THE CLEVELAND PLAIN DEALER

 

1. Nun Komm der Heiden Heiland (Scott Mello)
2. Nun Komm der Heiden Heiland (Jeanette Sorrell)
3. Wachet Auf!
4. Ach, Mein Herre
5. Wir Glauben all
6. Tepsichore: Bransle de Poictu -Gallarde - Bransle gay - Bransle simple - Bransle double
7. Glori seir Gott
8. Queen Pastores
9. Christum wir sollen loben
10. Christum wir sollen loben
11. Magnificat: Parts I and II (Jeanette Sorrell)
12. O Morning Star (Madeline Apple Hesley)
13. Magnificant: Parts III and IV (Jeanette Sorreell)
14. Lo, How a Rose E're Blooming (Jeanette Sorrell)
15. Our Father in Heaven (Jeanette Sorrell)
16. Benedicamus aeterno Regi (Paul Shipper)
17. Nun lo mein Seel (Michael Sponseller)
18. IN dulci jubilo / Good Christian Friends, Rejoice! (Sandra Simon)

https://www.avie-records.com/releases/christmas-vespers-music-of-michael-praetorius/

Label: Resonus Classics

1. Novo profusi gaudio
2. I sing of a maiden
3. Britten's Ceremony of Carols
4. King Jesus hath  garden
5. Dancing Day, Part 1: Angelus ad virginem
6. Dancing Day Part 1: I. Angelus ad virginem
7. Dancing Day, Part 1: III. Personent hodie
8. Dancing Day, Part 2: Interlude
9. Dancing Day, Part 2: IV. There is no rose
10. Dancing Day, Part 2: V. Coventry Carol
11. Dancing Day, Part 2 VI. Tomorrow shall be my dancing day
12. On Christmas Night (Sussex Carol
13. Wassail Carol

December holds in its hands many worlds of celebration as the month unfolds with Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Christmas and the eve of the New Year. Over the centuries a great deal of music has marked this time of year, but very little has been added to the canon in recent decades. Gordon Getty inspired us with his composition of delightful new Christmas carols to invite a group of American composers to celebrate the season in music. 

The resulting New Carols by Seven American Composers, a rich and tuneful recording of new holiday classics for all to share with their friends and families, features the work of Mark Adams, Jake Heggie, Joan Morris and William Bolcom, David Garner, Luna Pearl Woolf, John Corigliano, and Gordon Getty, who, in addition to his Four Christmas Carols arranged Franz Grubers Silent Night for mixed chorus and chamber orchestra, the culminating album track.

 Label: Pentatone Music

1. The Christmas Life
2. The Night is Freezing Fast
3. The Car Ride to Christmas
4. Good King Merrily on High
5. I wonder as I wander
6. The Road to Bethlehem
7. Christmas Time of the Year
8. Carol (Neighbors, on this Frosty Tide)
9. David Garner Three Carols: Posada
10. David Garner Three Carols: O magnum mysterium
11. David Garner Three Carols: Jesus' Song
12. Luna Pearl Woof: How Bright the Darkness, A Winter Solstice Carol
13. Gordon Getty Four Christmas Carols: Call the Children (Hodie Christus natus est)
14. Gordon Getty Four Christmas Carols: The Snow Child
15. Gordon Getty Four Christmas Carols: Candles on the Tree
16. Gordon Getty Four Christmas Carols: Run to the Window
17. John Corigliano: Christmas at Cloisters
18. Silent Night

Label: Lamc Live

Our first holiday recording in nearly 20 years! Recorded LIVE at Walt Disney Concert Hall, we’ve chosen the best Christmas music from the past holiday performances for this new album. Enjoy the Master Chorale in your home, car or on your iPad this holiday season!

Arranged by former LAMC Composer-in-Residence Shawn Kirchner, whose holiday arrangements have enchanted audiences nationally and internationally for years.

Label: BYU Records

1. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentleman
2. He is Born (feat. Ryan Innes)
3. Silent Night
4. Sleigh Ride (feat. Elisha Garrett)
5. Christmas Eve / Sarajevo 12/24 (A Cappella Tribute to Trans-Siberian Orchestra)
6. O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
7. One Single Bell (feat. One Voice Children's Choir)
8. Nuttin' for Christmas
9. Santa Claus is Coming to Town (A Cappella Tribute to Point of Grace)
10. Infant Holy, Infant Lowly
11. O Come, All Ye Faithful (feat. BYU Noteworthy)

Not Christmas, but John Rutter!

Label: Collegium Records

1. O all ye works of the Lord
2. The Tree of Life
3. Hymn to the Creator of Light
4. O Lord, how manifold are they works
5. The gift of each day
6. Believe in life
7. Give the king they judgements, O God
8. A Flower remembered
9. The Quest
10. Psalm 150
11. Christ is the morning star
12. All bells in paradise
13. Rejoice and sing

This recording continues the tradition of the New York Latvian Concert Choir soon after its founding in 1975 of commissioning cantatas for their annual holiday concerts. The music presented on this CD, all new works by Latvian composers, is written in a great variety of styles, uniting the worlds of Latvian folklore and Christianity--that of Valdis Zilveris is written in a romantic tradition with simple, memorable melodies; while Ingmars Zemzaris has used a neo-baroque style; Ilona Rupaines' is much more complicated, intertwining folkloric and Christian worlds; and Larkis Lacis employs jazz harmonies but not jazz rhythms. This is the third recording of Latvian music for the Christmas season by the New York Latvian Concert Choir.

https://www.albanyrecords.com/catalog/troy1589/

Judith Clurman conducts her acclaimed chorus, Essential Voices USA, in Holiday Harmonies: Sounds of Christmas, the ensemble's third recording for Sono Luminus. 

This holiday disc includes premiere recordings of new vibrant arrangements of seasonal favorites and new works that were written for the disc by some of America's finest composers. 

Mezzo Soprano Jamie Barton, Soprano Maureen McKay, Pianist Tedd Firth, and Harpist Stacey Shames are featured performers. 

Traditional repertoire includes: "Angels We Have Heard on High" (arr. David Chase), "O Holy Night" (arr. Ryan Nowlin), "Silent Night" (arr. Tedd Firth and Judith Clurman), "The Virgin's Slumber Song" (Max Reger), and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" (adaptation Judith Clurman). 

New works include: "Whispered and Revealed" (Nico Muhly), "Love Came Down" (Jennifer Higdon) and "Merry Christmas Wishing Well" (Gene Gilroy, arr. Michael Gilbertson).

Essential Voices USA (EVUSA) was featured under Judith Clurman's baton in the NBC 2014 telecast of Macy's Fireworks Spectacular. The ensemble performs regularly on the Carnegie Hall subscription series with The New York Pops and produces "The Composer Speaks" series at the DiMenna Space for Classical Music. EVUSA was thrilled to participate in the 2013 Presidential Inaugural activities. EVUSA has recorded two other critically acclaimed CDs for Sono Luminus: Celebrating the American Spirit (DSL 92162) and Cherished Moments: Songs of the Jewish Spirit (DSL 92182). 

Emmy and Grammy-nominated conductor Judith Clurman currently conducts Essential Voices USA (EVUSA), works with the Omaha Symphony on their Sacred Voices concerts, collaborates with the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall, conducts programs at the DiMenna Center for Classical Music, and maintains an active vocal studio in New York City. She has worked with numerous organizations, worldwide, and has commissioned works by 65 American classical composers.

The winner of the 2015 Richard Tucker Award, the winner of both the Main and the Song Prizes at the 2013 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Competition, a winner of the 2007 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions and a Grammy nominee, American mezzo-soprano Jamie Barton has been described by The Guardian as "a great artist, no question, with an imperturbable steadiness of tone, and a nobility of utterance that invites comparison not so much with her contemporaries as with mid-20th century greats such as Kirsten Flagstad." 

Jamie appears with the world's finest opera companies and symphonic orchestras. She is featured on the CD singing "Silent Night," "The Virgin's Slumber Song," and "We Wish You A Merry Christmas." Following performances of Susanna in Le nozze di Figaro, the Washington Post hailed soprano Maureen McKay as the "undisputed star of the show," and further exclaimed, "Armed with a silvery, precisely aimed voice, natural stage presence and the kind of beautifully detailed acting you don't see often enough on the operatic stage, McKay turned in a smart, sexy and thoroughly charming performance."

1. Angels We Have Heard on High
2. O Holy Night
3. Silent Night
4. Love Came Down
5. Simple Songs, Op. 76
6. Whispered and Revealed
7. Merry Christmas Wishing
8. We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Label: Sono Luminus

https://www.sonoluminus.com/store/holiday-harmonies

Label: ACTA Publications

Did you ever wonder when and where and how the favorite Christmas carols we sing every year came into being? Wonder no longer. Sheldon Cohen, ACTA's bestselling music producer, here narrates the true stories behind the writing of fourteen beloved Christmas hymns followed by a beautiful rendition of each carol by members of the Pacific Pops Orchestra and the New Horizon Singers.

From chorales to folkloristic songs; classical lieder to large-scale oratorios, and embracing the secular and the sacred, the Christmas season vocal music has long been omnipresent within the musical traditions of the holiday season. Ensemble Vokalzeit presents a collection that highlights the multiplicity of traditions that are woven within this season of transformation and celebration.

Label: Coviello

1. O Holy Night
2. Coventry Carol
3. What Child is This
4. Leise weht's durch alle Lande
5. Es strahlt am Himmelsrande
6. Nun sind die lieben Engelein
7. Engel haben Himmelslieder
8. Was soll das bedeuten
9. Weihnachtslieder, Op. 8: No. 1, Wie schön geschmückt der festliche Raum
10. Weihnachtslieder, Op. 8: No. 6, Das einst ein Kind auf Erden war
11. Maria durch ein Dornwald ging
12. Still, still, still
13. Weihnachtslied, Op. 52: No. 4, Vom Himmel in die tiefsten Klüfte
14. In dulci jubilo
15. Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen
16. Markt und Strassen steh'n verlassen
17. Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire
18. Let it Snow
19. I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas
20. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
21. Stille Nacht

Label: Bergen Digital Studi

1. Hør Den Englesang Så Skjønn
2. Stille Natt, Hellige Natt
3. Maria Wiegenlied
4. Gjetergutter Løper Fort Til Betlehem
5. Ding, Dong
6. Jul, Jul Strålande Jul
7. Et Barn ER Født I Betlehem
8. Mitt Hjerte Alltid Vanker
9. Work(s)~Adventtoner Så Lystelig Klinger
10. Work(s)~Seiersdag
11. När Juldagsmorgon Glimmar
12. He Is Born
13. Lullay My Liking
14. Star Carol
15. Giv Mig Ej Glans
16. Herdarna Spela För Barnet Jesus
17. I Wonder As I Wander
18. Deck The Halls
19. Es Blühen Die Maien
20. Heilige Nacht
21. Exultate Jubilate~Alleluja
22. Joy To The World

Label: Bergen Digital Studi

Let The Angels Sing: European Christmas Carols and Songs, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Michala Petri, recorder; Michael bojesen, arranger/conductor.


It's Christmas Time, - so "Let the Angels Sing"

Even if you have never heard these timeless melodies before,you will feel that you know them all by heart!

Each year, as the days grow shorter and temperatures a little colder, we begin to experience a sense of anticipation and excitement, as the holidays draw near. 'Tis the season for delicious smells, heart-warming sights, and joyful sounds; no other time of year is as filled with musical celebrations and good will, when even strangers come together and raise their voices in song!

New for this year, composer and arranger Michael Bojesen has selected hymns and carols from across the centuries and around the world, adding a touch of extra holiday joy with the soaring descants of Michala Petri's recorder, shining brightly like the star atop a Christmas tree.

From timeless favorites like "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear", "God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen" and "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel", to less-familiar carols from other lands like the Basque "Gabriel's Message", the Polish "Infant Holy, Infant Lowly" and the Czech "Zither Carol", Bojesen's arrangements of these beloved melodies with lift your spirit.

Enjoy this special musical celebration of the season, with the Danish National Vocal Ensemble and Michala Petri.

OUR Recordings is proud to present this album in the highest sound quality format commercially available- the SACD, DXD –format, engineered by the internationally acclaimed producer Preben Iwan, in the perfect acoustics of the Danish Radio Concert Hall.

https://www.ourrecordings.com/albums/let-the-angels-sing

 

Piotr Kusiewicz (tenor) & Waldemar Malicki (piano)

Lutosławski’s Christmas Carols, written in 1946, contain 18 songs taken from the collection of Father Marcin Michał Mioduszewski and two from that of Oskar Kolberg. The composer selected the most popular melodies but the manner of their arrangement is far from traditional. The cycle was premiered in January 1947 in Kraków by Anna Szlemińska (soprano) and Jan Hoffman (piano), generating much critical response. Unlike the Folk Melodies for piano, which instantly became extremely popular, particularly among young pianists, the Christmas Carols were performed relatively rarely, despite the fact that the collection was published by the Polish Music Publishers as soon as 1947. The first recording of the carols, by Krystyna Szostek-Radkowa and Andrzej Hiolski, with the pianist Jerzy Witkowski, was made in the 1970s (for the Veriton label). But it was only in April 1980 that the tenor Piotr Kusiewicz, then freshly out of the State High School of Music in Gdańsk, introduced Lutosławski’s carols onto the musical circuit.

Contents
The Angels said to the Shepherds [1:46]
It was already Midnight [1:51]
Jesus, Lovely Flower [1:52]
Hola, Hola, Shepherds from the Fields [2:24]
Hey, Hey, Thou Lily Virgin Mary [1:51]
He is lying in a Manger [2:18]
When Christ was born [3:04]
They hurried to Bethlehem [0:51]
Tiny Jesus [1:25]
Hey! We Rejoice [0:29]
When the Lovely Maiden [2:32]
Hey, On the Day of the Nativity [1:11]
And what (to do) with this Child? [1:23]
We Shepherds too [1:35]
The Little Babe [2:33]
Sleep, Little Jesus [2:32]
The Gentle Shepherds [0:51]
Of the Lord’s Birth [1:52]
The Most Blessed Maiden walked on Earth [2:45]
God is born [2:52] 

From a performance at the 2015 Valletta International Baroque Festival in Malta, this live performance of the engaging Cologne-based choir and orchestra Die Kolner Akademie led by Michael Alexander Willens aims to refocus attention on the little known Malta born Naples based late Baroque composer Girolamo Abos. The engaging performances of these Maltese Christmas masses with Die Kölners impeccable attention to detail bring new attention to this seldom recorded composer whose works are characterized by elegantly constructed forms and spirited contrapuntal thoroughbass that on this collection approach a level of revelation.

Label: CPO

Editor's Note: If you know the tracks on this album, please contact us at christmascarolblog@gmail.com.

1 Jingle bells J Pierpont, arr Ralph Allwood1:54

2 Once in royal David’s city* ­ HJ Gauntlett, vv2,4, and 5 harm AH Mann, v3 arr James O’Donnell, v6 arr David Willcocks4:22

3 Sussex Carol (On Christmas night)* English trad, arr David Willcocks1:39

4 Suo-Gân Welsh trad, arr Robert Court3:53

5 A babe is born* William Mathias3:26

6 Here is the little door Herbert Howells3:29

7 O come, all ye faithful* JF Wade, arr David Willcocks3:39

8 Away in a manger WJ Kirkpatrick, arr Huw Williams3:16

9 Ave Maria Gustav Holst4:07

10 Calypso Carol Michael Perry, arr John Bertalot2:13

11 The Lamb John Tavener3:09

12 God rest you merry, gentlemen* English trad, vv 1–3 arr John Stainer, v4 arr David Willcocks2:21

13 Lux aurumque Eric Whitacre3:06

14 Mary had a baby Spiritual, arr Malcolm Sargent1:53

15 Adam lay y-bounden John Ireland1:27

16 Hawaiian Lullaby Spiritual, arr Malcolm Sargent2:48

17 Alleluia! I bring you news of great joy Francis Grier1:49

18 The holly and the ivy English trad, arr H Walford Davies3:06

19 A hymn to the virgin Benjamin Britten3:04

20 Spanish Carol Spanish trad, arr Andrew Carter1:58

21 O little town of Bethlehem H Walford Davies2:59

22 Hark! the herald-angels sing* Mendelssohn, arr David Willcocks2:57

23 Deck the hall Welsh trad, arr Huw Williams1:24

Label: Carus

O heilige Nacht. Romantic Choral Music for Advent and Christmas

Just in time for the 30th anniversary season of the Dresdner Kammerchor, a new Christmas CD with the choir under the direction of Hans-Christoph Rademann is being released. The recording features romantic arrangements of classical Advent and Christmas carols. 

The recorded works are characterized by this revival of the traditional, the old melodies and texts from the 14th to 18th centuries; but at the same time by the merging of the past with the (musical) future. 

The composers, among them Max Reger, Carl Loewe, Max Bruch and Johannes Brahms, point towards the modern era with their musical languages, the timbres, harmonic progressions and chromatic enhancements. In this sense, the present CD – over and above the worthwhile discovery of unknown works, the artistic enjoyment of the performance and the musical attunement to Christmastide – is also an invitation to let oneself be drawn into a movement in which Advent is recognized as the simultaneity of the past and the future. 

Merry Christmas from Vienna features 18 Christmas songs by the children's choir that represents one of Austria's major cultural exports - as they embark on a musical journey through the centuries.

Several pieces from the repertoire traditionally sung on Christmas Eve, such as "Frohliche Weihnacht uberall" or "Leise rieselt der Schnee" by the German pastor Eduard Ebel, form the recording's core.

These carols, well-known and cherished throughout the entire German-speaking world, are complemented by musical gems of Austrian origin.

But the Vienna Boys Choir wouldn't be the globally successful choir it is if it didn't always look beyond its own cultural horizon. As a result, "Il est ne le divin enfant" or "Joy To The World" offer a glimpse of French and Anglo-Saxon Christmas traditions. This also applies to the English version of Adolphe Adam's "O Holy Night," for which audience favorite Rolando Villazon makes a guest appearance on the new album.

After all, cooperation with other musicians comes naturally to the Vienna Boys Choir. It continues to uphold this spirit even when it comes to the Christmas Carol of all Christmas Carols, winning the support of Russian soprano Aida Garifullina, one of the Vienna State Opera's rising ensemble members, for "Stille Nacht." In four additional songs, the choir boys demonstrate that cooperation often goes hand in hand with the expansion of one's own realm.

The renowned ensemble phil Blech Wien serves as a sparring partner for the young vocal artists in the two US Christmas classics "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Let It Snow." 

Widely known at least since their performance in the intermission film of the New Year's Concert 2013, the combination of brass instruments with two drum sets contributes its own rhythmic dynamism to the familiar sounds. The same holds true for the unusual line-up of the WienerWunderAllerlei quartet, with an instrumental repertoire ranging from saxophones to toys and with which the Boys Choir interprets Jingle Bells and the melancholy war protest song "Happy Christmas (War Is Over)" by John Lennon and Yoko Ono.

Most of the arrangements on the album were written by the President of the Boys Choir, Gerald Wirth, himself. - Christmas is the time when everyone loves listening to boys' choirs, says the choir's artistic director, feeling confident about the new recording. And also, Hannes Eder, Managing Director of Universal Music Austria, is impressed by the new partner: Some consider them the country's top export, others see them as the world's oldest boy group, and to everyone they are certainly one of the most well-known brands of culture in Austria.

    1. Adeste Fideles

  2. Fröhliche Weihnacht Überall

  3. The First Nowell

  4. O Holy Night

  5. Il Est Né, Le Divin Enfant

  6. Carol Of The Bells

  7. Joy To The World

  8. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

  9. Leise Rieselt Der Schnee

  10. Winter Wonderland

  11. Let It Snow

  12. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

  13. Jingle Bells

  14. Jingle Bell Rock

  15. Feliz Navidad

  16. We Wish You A Merry Christmas

  17. Happy Christmas (War Is Over)

  18. Silent Night

Label: Deutsche Grammophon

 1. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - Plácido Domingo & Vincent Niclo

  2. Guardian Angels - Plácido Domingo & Idina Menzel

  3. Silent Night - Plácido Domingo, The Piano Guys

  4. What Child Is This - Plácido Domingo & Helene Fischer

  5. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen - Plácido Domingo

  6. Hark The Herald Angels Sing - The Czech National Symphony Orchestra

  7. Pie Jesu from Requiem - Plácido Domingo & Jackie Evancho

  8. Astro del cielo - Plácido Domingo

  9. Loving Christmas with You - Plácido Domingo & Hayley Westenra

  10. It Came upon the Midnight Clear - Plácido Domingo

  11. White Christmas - Plácido Domingo & Plácido Domingo Jr.

  12. Ave verum corpus K. 618 - Plácido Domingo

  13. Feliz Navidad - Plácido Domingo

Label: Sony Classical

Label: ARS Produktion

Works for and about Christmas can be found on the latest recording by La Fenice, under the direction of Jean Tubéry. In over twenty years at the forefront of the national and international scene, the Ensemble La Fenice has emerged as an eminent specialist in seventeenth century music, and its cosmopolitan musicians take pride in representing the ensemble throughout Europe. This recording shows how the birth of Jesus Christ inspired the creation of works of art that illustrate or narrate the Holy Scriptures.

 

Released in October 2015, Nordic Nativity is a wonderful exploration of beautiful music from Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark—some of it familiar and some of it new. The Nordic composers have a marvelous way of spinning a melody that gets inside you and stays there! Of course, the Christmas season is a perfect time for this and including some new music helps us realize that the Christmas season is about our thoughts of the past and our celebration of the present. Tying it all together is the fiddle—an instrument beloved in all these countries and one that adds just the right touch to a Nordic Nativity.

 

1. Jul, Jul, Strålanda Jul (Gustav Nordqvist)
2. Vanhahaa Maassi
3. Einojuhani Rautavaara: Suomalainen rukouskirja
4. Rachel DeVore Fogarty: The Song of a Shepherd
5. Michael Praetorius, arr. Jan Sandstrom: Det at en  Ros Utsprungen
6. arr. Philip Brunelle: Dejlig er den Himmel Bla
7. arr. Otto Olsson: Guds Son at fodd
8. Egil Hovland: Det Finnes en Dyrebar Rose
9. Gammel Reinlender
10. arr. Ola Gjeilo: The Holly and the Ivy
11. Agneta Skold: Corpus Christe Carol
12. Kim Andre Arnesen: Cradle Hymn
13. Martin Luther, arr. Gunner Idenstam: From Heaven High
14. Sven-David Sanstrom: Julvisa
15. Justine Merrit: Miles and Miles
16. Jaakko Mantyjarvi: El Hambo
17. Eklunda Polska #3
18. arr. Gunnar Idenstam: Ringen I Klockor

Label: Danacord Records


Denmark:
Matti BORG (b.1956) Juledag from ‘15 Christmas and Wintersong’s [2:30]; Vinterskoven [2:17]; Julestjernen [2:11]; Helligtrekongersaften [1:49]

Sweden:
Dala chorale: Den signade dag
German folk melody: När juldagsmorgon glimmer 
Gustaf NORDQUIST (1886-1949) Jul, jul, strålande jul 
Alice TEGNÉR (1864-1943) Betlehems Stjärna 
Denmark:
C. E. F. WEYSE (1774-1842) Velkommen igen Guds engle små 

Povl HAMBURGER (1901-1972) Der er ingenting i verden så stille som sne [3:10]
Th. AAGAARD (1877-1937) Sneflokke kommer vrimlende 
Matti BORG Hviler du min ven from Anderscenarier
Sweden:
Ruben LILJEFORS (1871-1936) När det lider mot jul
Emmy KÖHLER (1858-1925) Nu tändas tusen juleljus
Adolphe ADAM (1803-1856) Jul-sång
Matti BORG Vinternatt from 15 sånger til dikter av Gustaf Fröding
Faroe Islands:
Regin DAHL (1918-2007) Veturin kom við kulda og kava

Iceland:
Folksong: Sumri hallar

Norway:
Per KNUDSEN (?) Jeg er så glad hver julekveld
Trad. O Jul med din glede
Edvard GRIEG (1843-1907) No ser eg atter slike fjell og dalar

Finland:
Jean SIBELIUS (1865-1957) Julvisa op.1 nr. 4; Demanten på Marssnön op.36 nr. 6 [2:38]
Armas MAASALO (1885-1960) Joulun kellot

Label: Resonus Classics

The Choirs of St Catharine's College, Cambridge & Edward Wickham (conductor)

The two resident choirs of St Catharine's College, Cambridge, and their director Edward Wickham, join together to record this stunning and evocative selection of contemporary Christmas carols. 

The college can boast having the first and only college-based Oxbridge girls' choir, and its own beautiful chapel in the very heart of Cambridge, provided the venue for this debut recording of the recently founded St Catharine's Girls' Choir.
Joined by the student choir, the album features premieres from such composers as Richard Rodney Bennett, Roxanna Panufnik, Cecilia McDowall and John Tavener. It also includes works specially written for the Girls' Choir by Stevie Wishart and Christopher Fox.
‘St Catharine’s […] acquit themselves well in some tricky music in the lustrous wood surroundings of the college’s little chapel’
Gramophone

Andrew:

	Hevene Quene
Beamish:	In the stillness of a church
Bennett, R R:	The Holly And The Ivy
Davies, T:	Christmas Eve
Fox, Christopher:	A Dream Of Winter
Larkin:	Adam Lay Y bounden
LeFanu:	Saint Ita’s Lullaby
MacMillan:	Nova! Nova! Ave fit ex eva
McDowall:	Before The Paling Of The Stars
Panufnik, R:	Alma redemptoris mater
Swayne:	There Is No Rose
Tavener:	A Cradle Song
Wishart, S:	Three Carols

Label: Resonus Classics

1. Gabriel Jackson: Nowell sing we
2. Edmund Rubbra: The Virgin's Cradle Hymn
3. Lennox Berkeley: Sweet was the song
4. O Antiphone Preludes: I.O. Sepientia
5. Richard Rodney Bennett: Puer Nobis
6. John Scott: Nova! nova!
7. O Antiphon Preludes: II. O Adonai
8. Colin Matthews: The Angels' Carol
9. Herbert Howells: O mortal man
10. O Antiphon Preludes: II. O Radix Jesse
11. Peter Maxwell Davies: King and Shepherds
12. Philip Moore: Lo, that is a marvillous change
13. Giles Swayne: O magnum mysterium
14. O Antiphon Preludes: IV. O Clavis David
15. Haflioi Hallgrissom: Chrst was born on Christmas Day
16. Richard Rodney Bennett: I saw three ships
17. Francis Pott: Lute-Book Lullaby
18. O Antiphon Preludes: V. O Oriens
19. Grayston Ives: This is the record of John
20. Richard Lloyd: Drop down, ye heavens
21. O Antiphon Preludes: VI. Rex Gentium
22. Michael Finissy: Ave regina coelorum
23. Richard Rodney Bennett: Nowell, nowell, tiding true
24. Jamie W. Hall: As I lay upon a night
25. O Antiphon Preludes: VI. O Emmanuel

Label: The Hildegard Singers

This compilation of quiet, contemplative music is the perfect accompaniment to your Christmas Eve celebration or any evening during the Christmas season. Allow Exultate to envelop you in the beauty of Christmas through this collection of new music and settings of time-honored favorites.

Tracks included:

1. O Come, O Come Emmanuel ~ arr. Thomas D. Rossin
2. Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus ~ arr. Mark Shepperd (b. 1950)
3. E’en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come ~ Paul Manz (1919-2009)
4. Virga Jesse Floruit ~ Anton Bruckner (1824-96)
5. Hark! A Thrilling Voice Is Sounding! ~ Mark Shepperd (b. 1950)
6. A Spotless Rose ~ Paul Mealor (b. 1975)
7. In the Bleak Midwinter ~ arr. Mark Shepperd (b. 1950)
8. Silent Night ~ arr. Jeffrey Van
9. O Nata Lux (from Lux Aeterna) ~ Morten Lauridsen (b. 1943)
10. Silent ‘Twas the Night ~ David L. Cobb
11. Sweet Little Jesus Boy ~ arr. Stephen Gabrielsen (1939-2013)
12. Away in a Manger ~ arr. David Willcocks/Thomas D. Rossin
13. Thy Little Ones, Dear Lord, Are We ~ arr. Kenneth Jennings (1925-2015)
14. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas ~ arr. David Cobb

1

1		Bereden vag for Herran (arr. A	Sofia Vokalensemble & Bengt Ollen	2:13
2		Nu Vantar Hela Jorden	Sofia Vokalensemble & Bengt Ollen	2:23
3		Advents-och julsanger, Op. 33:	Henrik Arlestrand, Bengt Ollen & Sofia Vokalensemble	5:00
4		Madonnans Vaggvisa	Bengt Ollen, Sofia Vokalensemble & Jeanette Kohn	3:03
5		Marias Vaggvisa (after F. Grub	Bengt Ollen, Sofia Vokalensemble & Jeanette Kohn	3:48
6		Corpus Christi Carol	Sofia Vokalensemble & Bengt Ollen	4:32
7		Advents-och julsanger, Op. 33:	Bengt Ollen & Sofia Vokalensemble	3:58
8		Serenity (O magnum mysterium)	Sofia Vokalensemble, Bartosz Cajler & Bengt Ollen	6:04
9		Det hev ei rose sprunge (A Spo	Bengt Ollen & Sofia Vokalensemble	2:51
10		There is no Rose of Such Vertu	Bengt Ollen & Sofia Vokalensemble	5:48
11		O Magnum Mysterium	Bengt Ollen & Sofia Vokalensemble	7:42
12		Julsang (Se, julens stjarna st	Sofia Vokalensemble & Bengt Ollen	3:23
13		Glans over sjo och strand (Shi	Bengt Ollen & Sofia Vokalensemble	1:55
14		Jul, Jul, Stralande Jul	Bengt Ollen & Sofia Vokalensemble	2:54
15		Advents-och julsanger, Op. 33:	Sofia Vokalensemble, Bengt Ollen & Henrik Arlestrand	3:48

Label: Coro

 

1. The First Nowell
2. Once in Royal David's City
3. The Sussex Carol
4. While Shepherds Watched
5. I Saw Three Ships
6. Angels from the Realms of Glory
7. O Little Town of Bethlehem
8. Silent Night
9. Away in  Manger
10. Rocking
11. In Dulci Jubilo
12. Ding Dong Merrily on High
13. In the Bleak Midwinter
14. Good King Wenceslas
15. Deck the Hall with Boughs of Holly
16. The Holly and the Ivy
17. God Rest You Merry Gentleman
18. See Amid the Winter's Snow
19. The Coventry Carol
20. O Come All Ye Faithful
21. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
22. As with Gladness Men of Old

  

Composer Richard Felciano's music has always embraced the challenge of new possibilities -- new technology, but also an embracing of the function of sound in architecture and in the physical world. His attempts in his music to express humane sentiments while coping overtly with the problems inherent in the physical nature of the materials are a singular characteristic of this work. 

This compilation of his vocal music includes a work for sopranos and flutes; one for baritone voice, percussion, organ and electronic sounds; a work for voice and interactive electronics; one that is an environment for four performers that combines performer choice with live digital spatial processing; a work for women's voices, five harps and bell percussion; and a set of four unaccompanied choral songs.

 1. Furies

  2. Glossalalia

  3. The Seasons

  4. Responsory for voice and interactive electronics

  5. Four Poems from the Japanese

  6. The Angels of Turtle Island

1. 

   
   

   
   

   Label: Audite

   
   

   Recorded between 1950 and 1964, these holiday carols are sung by some of the finest recital singers of that time, including Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau and Rita Streich, Erna Berger, Elisabeth Grümmer. In tandem with exquisite arrangements that transcend the usual sentimental tropes, these famed carols gain a gem-like quality with the RIAS Symphonie Orchester (today known as Deutsches Symphonie Orchester Berlin)

This recording intends to remind everyone of old traditions of Christmas and to enjoy something beautiful. This grouping of short pieces allows the listener to recognize both traditional and well-known Christmas melodies, featuring Sibylla Rubens (soprano), Julia Ströbel-Bänsch (oboe), Joachim Bänsch (horn), and Erika Budday (organ). 

Label: ARS Produktion

Label: BR Klassik

  2. A Virgin Most Pure

 

  3. In Dulci Jubilo

 

  4. This Is the Truth Sent from Above

 

  5. In the Bleak

 

  6. Past 3 O'clock

 

  7. Up! Good Christian Folk

 

  8. Jesus Christ the Apple Tree

 

  9. Gloucestershire Wassail (Wassail All Over the Town)

 

  10. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

 

  11. O Come, O Come Emmanuel

 

  12. Adam Lay Ybounden

 

  13. The Angel Gabriel (Gabriel's Message)

 

  14. Personent Hodie

 

  15. Down in Yon Forest

 

  16. Wither's Rocking Hymn

 

  17. Masters in This Hall

 

  18. Wexford Carol (Good People All This Christmastide)

 

  19. Joys Seven (The First Good Joy That Mary Had)

 

  20. Cherry Tree Carol

 

  21. Unto Us a Boy Is Born

 

  22. The Three Kings

 

 

 The recording is a sonic journey through the seasons of Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. This disc combines some of our best-loved seasonal music, like O come, O come, Emmanuel, and O day of peace that dimly shines, with music newly composed, like our title track What Hand Divine? by Seattle-based composer Erin Aas. Also featured are new recordings of "The Dawning" and "Jubilemus" omnes-stunning music for five celli and men's choir-composed by the choir's founder and beloved first director, Peter R. Hallock (1924-2014).

Label: CD Baby

Early music vocal ensemble Stile Antico has been praised for "breathtaking freshness, vitality and balance" by The New York Times. This new Christmas program of Renaissance polyphony features a glorious mass by the Flemish master Jacobus Clemens non Papa, alongside traditional old-German carols and motets, many of them still sung to this day. This is an irresistibly festive collection from the group that has become "the gold standard in this repertory" (The Independent).

Review

Superlative ensemble singing and well-chosen music that will make this a favorite recording for all Christmas choral collectors...You won't hear finer singing anywhere 

    --10/10, Classics Today

Label: HARMONIA MUNDI

1. Michael Praetorius; Musae Sioniae: Es ist ein ' Ros' entsprungen
2. Michael Praetorius: Ein Kind geborn zu Bethlehem
3. Jacobus Clemens non Papa: Pastores quidnam viditis
4. Jacobus Clemens non Papa: Missa "Pastores quidnam vidistis"
5. Jacob Handl: Mirabile mysterium
6. Jacob Handl: Canite tuba in Sion
7. Hieronymus Praetorius: Magnificat quinti toni
8. Johannes Eccard: Ubers Gebirg Maria geht

Johannes Eccard: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm' ich her

1. Hans Leo Hassler: Hodie Christus natus est

ABC Records

The 103rd St. Olaf Christmas Festival.

 

Disc 1

 

1. Corde Natus -- Matthew Peterson

2. Of the Father’s Love -- arr. Christopher Aspaas

3. Carol of the Advent -- arr. Philip Dietterich orch. James E. Bobb

4. Narration

5. O Lord, How Shall I Meet You -- arr. John Ferguson

6. Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying -- arr. F. Melius Christiansen

7. ’Tis Winter -- Christopher Aspaas

8. Hosanna to the Son of David -- Orlando Gibbons

9. Wondrous Morning Star -- Greg Nelson

10. ’Twas in the Moon of Wintertime -- arr. John Helgen

11. Cold December Flies Away -- arr. René Clausen

12. O Come, O Come, Emmanuel -- arr. John Ferguson

13. Gospel Reading — Luke 2:1–20

14. O Come, All Ye Faithful -- arr. John Ferguson, descant by David Willcocks

 

Disc 2

 

1. Hodie -- Robert W. Parker

2. African Noel -- arr. André Thomas

3. Star Carol -- Alfred Burt

4. Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day -- arr. John Rutter

5. In Winter’s Night -- setting by Charles Forsberg

6. This Little Light of Mine -- arr. Anthony Leach

7. Alleluyah Sasa! He Is Born -- Ben Allaway

8. With Joyful Hearts -- Steven Amundson

9. Carols For Choirs -- arr. John Ferguson

10. Angels We Have Heard on High -- arr. Robert Scholz

11. Gesu Bambino -- Pietro A. Yon

12. Narration

13. And God Said: One Day Shall Dawn (King David) -- Arthur Honegger

14. Love Divine, All Loves Excelling -- arr. John Ferguson

15. Narration

16. Stay with Us -- Egil Hovland

17. Beautiful Savior -- Silesian folk tune, arr. F. Melius Christiansen

Label: Regent Records

1. Ding! Dong! merrily on high
2. Nativity Carol
3. Three Carol anthems: Here is the little door
4. Three Carol Anthems: A spotless rose
5. Three Carol Anthems: Sing lullaby
6. Nowell sing we
7. What sweeter music
8. Balulalow
9. Tomorrow shall be my dancing day
10. Lo, how a rose e'er blooming
11. All this time
12. Long, long ago
13. Adam lay y-bounden
14. The Virgin's Song
15. In dulci jubilo
16. Silent night
17. Lullaby my Jesus
18. Jingle Bells
19. Fastasia on Christmas Carols

 Label: HYPERION

There are few choirs around today who can match the unbridled excellence of the Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge. On this new album are fantastic carols both old and new. These astonishingly fresh arrangements add up to twenty-one tracks of pure festive holiday indulgence. 

See our review: Yulefest: Mix of Old and New, Choir of Trinity College Is A Must for your Christmas Music Collection.

 1. Jingle Bells

  2. Stille Nacht

  3. In the Bleak Mid-winter

  4. White Christmas

  5. The Very Best Time of the Year

  6. Shepherds' Cradle Song

  7. The Christmas Song

  8. Es Ist Ein Ros' Entsprungen

  9. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

  10. E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come

  11. Quem Pastores Laudavere

  12. Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day

  13. The Virgin and Child

  14. Away in a Manger

  15. Ave Maris Stella

  16. How Far Is It to Bethlehem?

  17. The Star

  18. Peace, Peace!

  19. Sleigh Ride

  20. O Heavenly Word

  21. The Oxen

2015 holiday release. Yule Songs Vol. II is the first Christmas album by The Swingles since 2004, and is their best yet. The group has a long tradition of successful Christmas albums and this one was several years in the planning and execution. A mixture of classic Christmas songs like 'Silent Night', more unusual arrangements that suit their unique style and new songs specially written for this record, all performed beautifully acapella and recorded in a very modern way.


  1. Gabriel's Message

  2. With Us

  3. Tidings (The Hampton Court Carol)

  4. The Thaw

  5. Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind

  6. O Come, O Come Emmanuel

  7. Silent Night

  8. Forgotten

  9. The Kings

  10. O Holy Night

  11. Deck the Hall/What Child Is This?

  12. Wrapped in White

 Label: Swingles 51

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Yulefest: Mix of Old and New, Choir of Trinity College Is A Must for your Chirstmas Music Collection

 Yulefest!: Mix of Old and New, Choir of Trinity College Is Must for your Christmas Music Collection

by Ray Rojas

The last carol recording from the Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge I bought was “Carols from Trinity.” The version of I have was a two-disc set of carols probably a mix of recordings from the two previous “Carols from Trinity” (1990, 1993 and 1997 on  Conifer) and “A Child is Born” 1993 Classics.

So hearing Yulefest!, the choir’s newest Christmas recording, it was quite a change in terms of maintaining a traditional carol repertory. However, this recording ventures into the world of American Christmas songs from the World War II and post-War era maintaining at the same time excelling in the traditional carols.

This time, under the direction of Stephen Layton, the choirs takes us in to the cold winter full of waiting, joy, home longing, and memory. This will be Layton’s second Christmas recording with Trinity, the first being Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, also on Hyperion.

What’s special about this recording is that while maintaining the tradition, it does the contemporary, some in admittedly Swingle Singer’s style. Although I say contemporary, “Jingle Bells” was written in the 1900s, but even this song qualifies it, with a wink of eye, as a carol. This arraignment by Ben Parry is original and well performed here. This arraignment was in fact, written for the Swingle Singers, here expanded for full choir. Another Swingle connection is seen in “Silent Night,” in which an arrangement is of Jonathan Rathbone, a former Swingle Singer.  Rathbone gives the almost 200-year old carol to mix of 20th Century and tradition.

Although commonly associated with the 20th Century, “Jingle Bells” was actually written in the 19th Century as a Thanksgiving song. The version on this album is by Ben Parry, originally written for The Swingle Singers.

Ted Trader, who writes the liner notes, says that Trinity’s performance of “In the Bleak Midwinter” by Gustav Holst, is given an “American a capella feel” with an an arrangement by Ola Gjeilo. Old World or New, the arrangement is simply beautiful bringing the dark cold of winter to life.

As mentioned before, there are several 20th Century pop pieces including Mel Torme’s “Christmas Song” and “White Christmas.” Torme’s classic is arranged by Peter Gritton and “White Christmas” by Jeremy Davies. Also 20th Century, John Rutter’s nostalgia piece “The Very Best Time of the Year” sets the Christmas mood for family gatherings and Christmas dinner. The arrangement is by Owen Park. Park’s original composition of “Shepard’s Cradle Song” admittedly pays tribute to Rutter’s style with solos by Helen Charlston (mezzo-soprano) and Faith Waddell (soprano).

Park also lends an arrangement of “Have yourself a merry Little Christmas,” a song originally from the musical “Meet Me in St. Louis.” This is a classic American Christmas songs that Trinity shows can be turned into choral showstoppers without the cheese that other pop Christmas classics usually receive when arranged for choir. I first heard Park’s arrangement of “Tomorrow shall be my Dancing Day” in the choir’s Advent Carol Service in 2013 via live feed from Cambridge. It has since gained a popular following and is now performed and heard in many Advent and Carol services.


The now widely performed Advent tune, “E’en so, Lord Jesus, quickly come” performed here by Trinity, shows why this modern carols has gain such a following. The longing for the Lord’s coming can still be felt. Released by American composer Pau Menz in 1953, the years have not tarnished the beauty of this motet and Trinity excels in its performances, makes us forget that the text is from the sometimes depressing Book of Revelations. Paul Menz wife, Ruth Mentz wrote the lyrics when their son was critically ill.

Another American composer, James Bassi, has his “Quem pastores laudavere” performed.
Taking us back to the time of Michael Praetorius (1571-1621), Trinity performs Erling Penderson’s arrangement of “Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen  A great and mighty wonder”
Orla Gello has Scanenavian roots, but his is not the only one on this recording. Trinity takes us to Sweden for “The virgin and child” based on a Swedish folk song, here arranged by Gunnar Eriksson (Note 1).  There is also Swedish carol Ave maris stella. Two more Swedish songs are included. They are “The Star” by Harald Sventelius (1902-1996), arr. Hans-Ola Ericsson (b1958) and “Peace, peace” by Gustaf Nordqvist (1886-1949). “Peace, Peace” was composed by  Gustaf Nordqvist (1886-1949) which is another exploration of a Swedish song, sung in English. Nordqvist if most famous for writing to music for the Swedish carol “Jul, jul, strålande jul.” The arrangement is by Hans-Ola Erickson. In “The Star,” the solos are sung eloquently by sopranos Anna Cavaliero and Julie St. Clair. In “The Star,” you can hear the song ascend through the cathedral.
                                                                                               
An arrangement by Reginald Jacques of “Away in a Manger” is based on a French folk song. “How are is Bethlehem,” by Bertie Rice is a close-harmony piece.
Most peculiar is “Peace, Peace” by  Gustaf Nordqvist (1886-1949) which is another exploration of a Swedish song, sung in English. The arrangement is by Hans-Ola Eickson and solos are sung by sopranos Anna Cavaliero and Julie St. Clair.

“O Heavenly Word,” arranged here by Michael Bojesen, is a Danish folk song said to be very popular in Denmark.  The last carol is “The Oxen” by Jonathan Rathbone. The words are taken from Thomas Hardy.

Would I play this on Christmas Eve for the family?: Most definitely. 

Trinity's Christmas CD should be in every Christmas music collection.

Note 1    According to the Bach Cantata Website, Eriksson: Gunnar Eriksson teaches choir and ensemble conducting at the State College of Music and the State Opera College at the University of Göteborg, in Sweden’s second-largest city. He founded and directs the Rilke Ensemble, a twelve-voice mixed ensemble named “Choir of the Year” in 2004 by the Swedish Choral Centre. Gunnar Eriksson is also the leader of the Göteborg Chamber Choir, which has existed for over 25 years and has recorded some 20 albums and made several tours around the world. He spends most of his spare time traveling around the world conducting and teaching choirs and their leaders.
http://www.bach-cantatas.com/Lib/Eriksson-Gunnar.htm

Tracks:
Jingle bells
Silent night
In the bleak mid-winder
White Christmas
The very best time of the year
Shepherd’s cradle song
The Christmas Song
A great and mighty wonder
Have yourself a merry little Christmas
E’en so, Lord Jesus, quickly come
Quem pastores laudevere
Tomorrow shall be my dancing day
The virgin and child
Away in a Manger
Ave maris stella
How far is Bethlehem?
The star
Peace, Peace
Sleigh ride
O heavenly word
The oxen

 

DISCLAIMER: Owner of photo or photos above is unknown. Infringement is not intentional and photo is used for educational purposes only with in the Fair Use clause of Section 107 of the Copyright Act. We will will be obliged any take down request under the DMCA .