Alleluia Sing

Editorial Reviews
About the Artist
Arranger/conductor Paul Leddington Wright has been associated with the Saint Michael's Singers since 1978, and the choir's Director of Music since 1985. He has a long involvement with Coventry Cathedral as organist, Director of Music and is presently the Cathedral's music adviser. Wright is also a frequent conductor and organist for BBC Radio 4's Morning Service, and the weekly BBC television series Songs of Praise. Since 1985, he has been an integral part of the International Church Music Festival and was named the Festival's artistic director in 1991, sharing conducting duties with Sir David Willcocks.

Album Description
Paul Leddington Wright Presents Alleluia, Sing! brings the arranging and conducting of noted choral director Paul Leddington Wright, and the choral sound of the internationally acclaimed Saint Michael’s Singers from England’s historic Coventry Cathedral to North American audiences. The recording contains twelve cathedral settings of classic hymns. Included are favorites such as “O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing,” “Amazing Grace,” “Immortal, Invisible,” and “And Can It Be.” The album also features rich organ accompaniment from the Cathedral’s brilliant 92-rank, 4-manual Harrison & Harrison pipe organ with organists David Poulter and Christopher Argent. The recording concludes with an a capella hymn setting of “From All That Dwell Below the Skies”, showcasing the Singer’s musical finesse and warmth of tone.

Tracks:

O Come, Emmanuel
Alleluia
The First Nowell
The Carol Of The Birds
Allon, Gay Bergeres
A Hymn To The Virgin
O Magnum Mysterium
Christmas Oratorio: Rejoice And Sing
Ave Maria
What Is This Lovely Fragrance?
Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming
Sing Lullaby
While By My Sheep
Christmas Oratorio: Break Forth, O Wondrous Heavenly Light
Heavenly Light
Adeste Fideles
Ceremony Of Carols: Procession - Hodie Christus Natus Est
Ceremony Of Carols: Wolcum Yole!
Ceremony Of Carols: There Is No Rose
Ceremony Of Carols: That Yonge Child
Ceremony Of Carols: Balulalow
Ceremony Of Carols: As Dew In Aprille
Ceremony Of Carols: This Little Babe
Interlude (Harp Solo)
Ceremony Of Carols: In Freezing Winter Night
Ceremony Of Carols: Spring Carol
Ceremony Of Carols: Deo Gracias
Ceremony Of Carols: Recession: Hodie Christus Natus Est

Amazon.com

In this beautifully chosen program of mostly a cappella arrangements, Robert Shaw and the Robert Shaw Chamber Singers deliver the Christmas story in tones of gentle and moving splendor. The carols and sacred settings recorded here are all of an intimate sort, and the rapturous, gently expressive realizations Shaw and his singers give them prove unfailingly appealing. Particularly moving is the newest work on the disc, a setting of "O magnum mysterium" by the American composer Morten Lauridsen. Franz Biebl's "Ave Maria" is another gem, as is the arrangement by Healy Willan of the French carol "What Is This Lovely Fragrance?" The offering includes a pair of chorales from Bach's Christmas Oratorio and two wonderful Christmas works by Benjamin Britten: "A Hymn to the Virgin" and A Ceremony of Carols, both well done, even if the sound of sopranos and altos (rather than boy trebles) in the latter takes some getting used to. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful.......2007-02-16

The music is beautiful of course. The Robert Shaw Chorale is a high quality group of singers, and the arrangements they sing are really nice. Because of the age of the recording today's standards of equpment and tonal quality simply weren't available but the upgrade from analog vinyl was well-done. I shall look for more of these.

Robert Shaw Chorale.......2007-01-10

This is an excellent ablum. The music is lovely and quite varied. While there are many of the familiar favorites, there are also many new and different songs and the whole CD is a delight to listen to.

a perfect Ceremony of Carols!.......2005-12-22

This is the finest recording of Britten's A Ceremony of Carols I've ever come across, and there are plenty of versions to choose from. The King's College Choir rendition suffers from overstuffed acoustics, a constant with that choir, and their recording of Ceremony of Carols falls short in the requisite rhythmic clarity and intensity. The Christ Church, Oxford version is plodding, and lacks sparkle. Harry Christopher's The Sixteen come close, with marvelous sonics and ecstatic diction, but fall apart in the exacting 'This Little Babe' round with uneven cohesion, and strange stressed notes that ruin the waterfall effect so felicitously construed by Britten. I've not heard Britten's own conducted version, but he scrupulously insisted on boy trebles, and it's difficult if not impossible to conjure a more perfect rendering than the one given here by Shaw and his Chamber Singers. 'This Little Babe' is incomparable in each and all of its rapid fire contours, which is no mean feat. Mezzo-soprano Nanette Soles deserves special mention for incandescent singing on 'That Younge Child". The luminous pacing of 'There is no rose of such virtue' is notable, and to his credit Shaw employs the ecclesiastical pronunciation of the various Latin passages, unlike The Sixteen (and most other English choir recordings of this piece) who insist on an idiomatic British pronunciation of Latin, which offers nothing but distraction. Some will prefer boy treble singers, an attractive option, but for high musical values and the art they inevitably enshrine, it's impossible to be disappointed with this profoundly wrought version of Ceremony of Carols. Bach's 'Break Forth, O beauteous heavenly light' is just right, and I'd not heard 'Heavenly Light' by Aleksandr Kopylov; both are favorable additions to an excellent recording. Recommended.

Brilliant compilation.......2005-03-16

This is an absolutely outstanding collection of carols - some of them well-known, some of them obscure. As a choral singer, I've had the pleasure of singing many of these pieces, and I was delighted when I found them all in one place, and done by an ensemble so accomplished as the Robert Shaw Chamber Singers! It just isn't Christmas for me without this recording.

Didn't care for it that much.......2004-12-27

I prefer to hear the voices and the words of the carols, and this one has too much other sound (maybe even the use of massed voices); I have a hard time hearing what they are singing.

Average customer rating:

Unintentionally Catholic and Very Good
Better than the first
Another masterpiece of a compilation.
4 great songs, the rest is just filler
HONESTLY I HAVE NOT HEARD BETTER!

City on a Hill: Sing Alleluia
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Essential
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Alternative | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Praise & Worship | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
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City on a Hill: Songs of Worship and Praise
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ASIN: B00005Y4OR
Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

All Creatures Of Our God And King (choral prelude)
Sing Alleluia - Jennifer Knapp & Mac Powell
Holy Is Your Name - Bebo Norman, Cliff & Danielle Young
You Are Holy - Nichole Nordeman
Our Great God - Mac Powell & Fernando Ortega
Marvelous Light - Derek Webb
The Comforter Has Come - Jars Of Clay
Shine Your Light - Nochole Nordeman & FFH
Hide Me In Your Heart - FFH
Hallowed - Jennifer Knapp & Phil Keaggy
Lift Up Your Hearts (Sursum Coda) - Derri Daugherty
Communion - Cliff & Danielle Young & Phil Keaggy
All Creatures Of Our God And King (choral postlude)

Amazon.com

Just when the recent praise and worship movement threatened to stagnate, City on a Hill: Sing Alleluia provided a gust of fresh air. Like its predecessor, City on a Hill: Songs of Praise and Worship, this collaboration features some fascinating partnerships (with Third Day's Mac Powell and Fernando Ortega; and Bebo Norman; Caedmon's Call; and others) that yield pleasant results. Elsewhere, artists like Jars of Clay add traditional grace to the lustrous and rich possibilities of modern Christian music, polishing up the late-19th-century hymn "The Comforter Has Come." Coproducers Steve Hindalong and Marc Byrd wisely bookend Sing Alleluia with the century-old standard "All Creatures of Our God and King," a fitting irony for a record that exemplifies what worship music can be when artists stop worrying about what it should be. --Michael Lyttle

Customer Reviews:

Unintentionally Catholic and Very Good.......2007-03-20

I bought this cd primarily because of the acoustic Christian radio hit ; Sing Alleluia by Jennifer Knapp and Mac Powell and I couldn't find it as a single anywhere else.
The entire cd turned out great with contributions from well known Christian musicians. I must say the entire cd is very solemn, hushed, upbeat and cheery at the same time. It sounds very Catholic even though I am sure it was not the singers' intentions. It is a different type of worship very different than the modern praise and worship we find these days. This is more introspective and quiet, a treasure.

Better than the first.......2004-03-21

Like other reviewers have already mentioned this album is better than the first City on a Hill. The line-up of artists is stronger, and the quality of songs exceeds the first album. It is nice to see that these type projects continue to be successful.

The best songs of the album include "Sing Alleluia", "Hide Me in Your Heart", "Hallowed" and "Communion". They alone make the album worth a listen. But, the other songs are also strong. In fact, there is no real weak song among the group.

If you like the Christian artists who participated in the making of this album (Third Day, Caedmon's Call, FFH, Jars of Clay, Jennifer Knapp, etc.) buy it, you will not be disappointed. Or, if you are looking for a nice mix of different talents from the modern Christian music scene, this will fit your need. Enjoy.

Another masterpiece of a compilation........2003-11-29

This second volume of worship music under the banner of City on a Hill is an ecclectic mix of worship music that is not the dry, shopworn "churchy" sound that has lingered since the '70's.

What I like about this CD is that although the sound is more modern, it is not "worldly." If I was in the market for secular music, I would have bought it. But City on a Hill has not disappointed with regard to being a very reverent, worshipful, yet fresh collection of Christian music.

4 great songs, the rest is just filler.......2003-02-26

As a long time fan of Jennifer Knapp I had to buy this album when I learned that she had two songs on it. One of the more overlooked songs is "Hallowed", which is the Lord's Prayer put to song and done with a slight change (breaking up the song every two lines with either "hallowed be thy name" or "hallowed, hallowed"). This is a very beautiful song, peaceful, and reminding of the power of the Lord's Prayer. The big song from this worshipful album is the title track "Sing Alleluia" by Jennifer Knapp and Mac Powell (Third Day). This title track is the absolute highlight of the album. It is powerful, beautiful, and directs the heart to the purpose of worship. The album is bookended by two versions of the hymn "All Creatures of Our God and King". The two versions of the hymn, and the two above listed songs are, unfortunately, the only songs of note for me. The rest of the album (including the Jars of Clay track) sound like bad Christian radio. The heart is in the right place, but the delivery is just off. I'll give this album high marks because what is good is very, very good.

HONESTLY I HAVE NOT HEARD BETTER!.......2002-11-08

This CD is for a true worshiper of God!

I recommend that those who love the Lord Jesus consider buying
this Anointed treasure that literally causes my spirit to stir as I can feel the Presence of God!

This opinion is sincere!

Tracks:

Antiphona Post Evangelium - In Dulci Jubilo
Versus Alleluiatici: Adorabo - Nova Schola Gregoriana
Ordo Virtutum: Procession - Oxford Camerata
Viderunt Omnes - Tonus Peregrinus
Fines Terre Salutare Dei Nostri Jubilate Deo Omnis Terra (Plainchant) - Tonus Peregrinus
Notum Fecit - Tonus Peregrinus
Dominus - Tonus Peregrinus
Salutare Suum Ante Conspectum Gentium Revelavit - Tonus Peregrinus
Justitiam Suam (Plainchant) - Tonus Peregrinus
Gaudete Christus Est Natus - Oxford Camerata
Cantiga De Santa Maria - Michael Posch
Exiit Diluculo - Unicorn Ensemble
Humils Forfaitz - Michael Posch
Adieu Ces Bons Vins De Lannoys - Michael Posch
Non Avra Ma'Pieta Questa Mia Donna - Michael Posch
Non Ara May Pieta Questa Mia Dona - Michael Posch
Veni Creator - Tonus Peregrinus
D'Ung Aultre Amer - Capilla Flamenca
Alleluya - Capilla Flamenca
El Grillo - Shirley Rumsey
El Grillo - Capilla Flamenca
Missa 'La Sol Fa Re Mi': Kyrie - Capilla Flamenca
Le Chant Des Oiseaux - The Scholars Of London
Passe & Medio/Den Iersten Gaillarde - Capilla Flamenca
Den III Ronde, Den VI Ronde-Les Quatre Branles - Convivium Musicum Gothenburgense
Gaillarde I, II, III - Convivium Musicum Gothenburgense

Tracks:

In Nomine - Rose Consort Of Viols
In Nomine No.20 - Rose Consort Of Viols
Spem In Alium - Oxford Camerata
Sanctus - Oxford Camerata
Du Fond De Ma Pensee - Christine Morel
The King Of Denmark's Galiard - Rose Consort Of Viols
Flow, My Tears - Dorothy Linell
Greiner Zancker - Ensemble Villanella
Stat ('Tsaat) Ein Meskin - Ensemble Villanella
Tiento - Shirley Rumsey
Tribulationem Et Dolorem - Oxford Camerata
Lagrime Di San Pietro: 'Il Magnanimo Pietro' - Bo Holten
Missa 'Susanne Un Jour': Kyrie - Oxford Camerata
Beau Le Crystal - The Scholars Of London
Missa 'O Magnum Mysterium': O Magnum Mysterium - Oxford Camerata
Missa 'Papae Marcelli': Kyrie - Oxford Camerata

Customer Reviews:

another winner from Naxos.......2007-02-21

This is another winning compilation from Naxos. My only comment is to provide a heads-up regarding the track list in the booklet. CD 1 puts the Leonin "Viderunt Omnes" on six tracks, while the booklet leaves room for only one. Thus, add five to booklet tracks five through 21 for CD1 to get them to match. (I.e., where the booklet says tracks 15 and 16 are two versions of Josquin's "El Grillo," your CD player will show them to be tracks 20 and 21.) With luck this will be corrected in later printings.

Also, I would have liked the booklet to include the words, but perhaps that is an inducement to get particular CDs from Naxos.

As for the music itself--breadth of selection, musicianship, sound quality, all are excellent. A great collection!

awesome value -- 5+ stars.......2006-07-15

I'm really enthusiastic about these CDs and booklet. I've had it for a few weeks now, in which I've explored Medieval and Renaissance music much more deeply than this little book and CD set. Yet I'm very glad I started with these.

The selection of composers gives an excellent, broad sweep across several centuries.

But the booklet contains one of the most informative essays I've found about early music, and I've spent a few dozen dollars buying books. If the booklet were separated from the CDs, it alone would be worth more than $10.

In short, if you're interested in exploring early music, this really is one of the best places to start; the best place that I know of. I'm sure, at any rate, that you can't beat the value.

Voices Of Ascension: From Chant To Renaissance

Average customer rating:

The best early choral music recording I've heard!

Voices Of Ascension: From Chant To Renaissance
Peter Stewart , English Anonymous , William Byrd , Gregorian Chant , Guillaume Dufay , Richard Farrant , Hildegard of Bingen , Marc' Antonio Ingegneri , Heinrich Isaac , Josquin Desprez , Antonio Lotti , Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina , Thomas Tallis , Thomas Weelkes , Dennis Keene , Kathy Theil , Susanne Peck , Alexandra Montano , Jeffrey Johnson , Neil Farrell , Thom Baker , and Voices Of Ascension
Manufacturer: Delos Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Chants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Voices of Angels

ASIN: B0000006ZX
Release Date: 2002-01-08

Tracks:

Hildegard of Bingen: O virga ac diadema
Palestrina: Sitivit anima mea
Byrd: Justorum animae
Isaac: Sanctus
Josquin: Ave Christe
Dufay: Alma Redmptoris Mater
Byrd: Rejoice, rejoice
(chant): Kyrie eleison
Palestrina: Surge illuminare
(chant): Sanctus
Tallis: In ieiunio et fletu
Palestrina: Hodie Christus Natus Est
Byrd: Sing joyfully
Farrant: Lord, for thy tender mercy's sake
Hildegard of Bingen: Ave generosa
Byrd: Miserere mei, Deus
(anonymous): Rejoice in the Lord alway - Anonymous
(chant): Ave Verum Corpus
(chant): Agnus Dei
Lotti: Crucifixus
Ingegneri: Tenebrae factae sunt
Palestrina: Ascendo ad Patrem
Weelkes: Hosanna to the Son of David
Weelkes: Alleluia, I heard a voice

Customer Reviews:

The best early choral music recording I've heard!.......1999-07-25

This is a stunning recording, including well-known and not-so-well-known works.

Radiant Light - The Trinity Choir, Boston

Average customer rating:

Truly Radiant
Orgasmic
Music to enrapture
a glorious listening experience!
Worthy buying if you love sacred choral music!

Radiant Light - The Trinity Choir, Boston

Manufacturer: Dorian Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Magnificats | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

A Cappella | Folk | Styles | Music
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A Robert Shaw Christmas - Angels on High
Tabula Rasa
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Arvo Pärt: Da pacem
Silencio

ASIN: B00002SWN6
Release Date: 1999-11-16

Tracks:

Ave Maria
The Lamb
Magnificat
Sing, Ye Faithful
O Magnum Mysterium
Cherubic Hymn
A Hymn To The Mother Of God
Alleluia
Viri Galilaei
Have Ye Not Known? & Ye Shall Have a Song
Song For Athene
Radiant Light
A Gaelic Blessing

Customer Reviews:

Truly Radiant.......2004-01-23

This is a beautiful work. This very skilled choir has exceptional tone, and the director knows how to get the best out of his singers in each piece. Franz Biebl's Ave Maria was written for men's choir, but the SATB version here outshines them all. Lauriden's O Magnum Mysterium shimmers as its complex harmonies weave among the parts. You will not be disappointed in this CD!

Orgasmic.......2001-08-23

What can I say. I have actually sung almost all of these anthems but just listening to them brings about such peace and tranquillity that I thought I had died and gone to heaven..a truly orgasmic experience.

Music to enrapture.......2000-05-08

I bought this for the recording of Lauridsen's "O Magnum Mysterium"; as a singer I have performed this along with other pieces on the CD. I was impressed by all of it. The choir has wonderful dynamic control and great expression. And yes, the Lauridsen moved me to tears as it always does when I sing it. This CD is a must for any lover of beautiful modern choral music

a glorious listening experience!.......2000-04-06

"...sixty-five auditioned volunteers and seven professional singers..."--that's how the CD booklet describes the make-up of Trinity Church-Boston's choir. It's clear from even the most superficial listening that this choir has been able to attract truly talented volunteers. But bringing a mostly volunteer choir to the level of musical attainment evident on this CD requires a director with a number of extraordinary skills: creating a rehearsal ambience with the right mix of challenges and rewards, immense musical sensitivity, intimate knowledge of the human voice's problems and potential, to say nothing of well-honed people skills and great patience. Brian Jones, Trinity Choir's director, obviously has these skills in abundance, and the results are evident on this CD. Perhaps the foremost of all this CD's sterling qualities is the musicality of ensemble--not merely being in perfect sync, but sensing as a corporate entity the subtle gestures, the rise and fall, the ebb and flow of the music. This is choral music at it's most satisfying. The recorded works are all wonderful--but I do believe that Trinity Church Choir and Brian Jones could send us into raptures with a performance of "Mary had a little lamb!"

Worthy buying if you love sacred choral music!.......2000-03-02

A most enjoyable CD. There's nothing atonal here but a diverse and interesting choice of mainstream modern anthems, performing with loving attention to details of diction, tuning, phrasing and expression. Patrick Gowers' 'Viri Galilaei' is a particular tour de force, with impressive sustained increase in tension up to the joyful chorale section, and a beautifully controlled final Alleluia. The polychoral contrasts in Randall Thompson's unaccompanied 'Have ye not known' are also very effective. But there are lots of goodies in this CD. A worthy addition to the library of any lover of sacred choral music. But why is it not available in UK?

Average customer rating:

Abide with Me and other favourite hymns

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

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Abide With Me
Hymns Through the Centuries
100 Hymns & Songs of Inspiration
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ASIN: B000B6N69A
Release Date: 2005-10-18

Tracks:

All People That On Earth Do Dwell
Dear Lord And Father Of Mankind
King Of Glory, King Of Peace
Ye Watchers And Ye Holy Ones
Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent
Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
All My Hope On God Is Founded
The Lord's My Shepherd
Tell Out, My Soul
Christ Is Made The Sure Foundation
Come Down, O Love Divine
Praise To The Lord, The Almighty, The King Of Creation
And Did Those Feet In Ancient Time (Jerusalem)
Abide With Me
Alleluya, Sing To Jesus!
Ye Holy Angels Bright
My Song Is Love Unknown
Holy, Holy, Holy!
Glorious Things Of Thee Are Spoken
O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing
Praise, My Soul, The King Of Heaven
O Praise Ye Lord

Average customer rating:

Great performances from a great choir.
Out of the Mouths of Children...

Heavenly Voices

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Partsongs | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Angel Voices 3
Les Choristes
Best Loved Christmas Carols
Once Were Angels: The Tradition of Boy Trebles
Visions

ASIN: B0002RUAAG
Release Date: 2004-10-05

Tracks:

Franck: Paris Angelicus
Mendelssohn: Hymn of Praise - I waited for the Lord
Verdi: Quattro pezzi sacri - Laudi alla vergine Maria
Mendelssohn: Elijah - Lift thine eyes
Greene: The Lord is my shepherd
Faure: Requiem - Pie Jesu
Franck: Choeur de Paques - Alleluia!
Faure: Ave Maria Op.67, No.2
Schubert: Gott ist mein Hirt
Ireland: Ex ore innocentium
Hadley: I sing of a maiden
Faure: Messe Basse
Karg-Elert: Dritte Sinfonische Kanzone (Fuge, Kanzone und Epilog) Op.85, No.3

Customer Reviews:

Great performances from a great choir........2007-03-08

King's College is a reliably solid choir. Set to doing a mix of challenging pieces, they rise splendidly and with moving effect through a range of musical styles or types. I didn't grow up on the English choral style. Frankly, I prefer German composers and that style of arrangement, but the King's College Choir is so good and so controlled that I found it impossible to be bothered by my petty likes or dislikes. Instead, I was gladly and happily swept along by the sound of Heavenly Voices.

Out of the Mouths of Children..........2005-07-30

Who can resist the incredible purity of sound garnered by a boys choir? On this beautifully recorded CD the Boy's of the King's College Cambridge Choir are conducted by Stephen Cleobury in the hall in which they perform - that otherworldly resonance of King's College Chapel. This collection separates the men from the boys in that the usual full Choir is all male with men singing the tenor and bass roles and the boys singing the soprano and alto roles.

The works performed fall into the 'old chestnut' category: Franck's 'Panis Angelicus', Faure's 'Pie Jesu' from the Requiem, Mendelssohn's 'Lift thine eyes' form Elijah, etc. There are a few works less familiar (and equally as lovely) such as the Karg-Elert 'Dritte Sinfonische Kanzone (Fuge, Kanzone und Epilog)' Op.85, No.3. The intonation and musicality of the choir is impeccable and the tone is as pure as any achieved by other groups of similar description.

This is one of those recordings for quiet contemplative moments, those times when the need to just clear the mind and be refreshed occur. Not a terribly unique recital but one of great beauty. Grady Harp, July 05

Average customer rating:

The best choir out there
Gorgeous
An Excellent CD
A moving survey of American hymns
a listener from North Kansas CIty

Alleluia: An American Hymnal

Manufacturer: Nimbus Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Fern Hill
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O Come Let Us Sing

ASIN: B00000DG26
Release Date: 1998-10-20

Tracks:

Southern Harmony: Hark, I Hear The Harps Eternal (Invitation) - Rebecca Lloyd
Southern Harmony: Come Away To The Skies (Exultation)
Southern Harmony: Precious Lord, Take My Hand (Maitland) - Sandra Brennan
Shaker Songs: I Want To Shake With Indignation - Pamela Williamson
Shaker Songs: I've Set My Face For Zion's Kingdom - Rebecca Lloyd
Shaker Songs: The Precious Way Of God
Shaker Songs: Encouragement
The Sacred Harp: Wondrous Love (Wondrous Love)
The Sacred Harp: Saints Bound For Heaven (Saints Bound For Heaven)
Sunday Morning: Come, Thou Fount Of Every Blessing (Nettleton)
Sunday Morning: Alleluia
Sunday Morning: E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come
Sunday Morning: All Hail The Power Of Jesus' Name
Sunday Morning: Sing Me To Heaven
Spirituals: I Wanna Be Ready - Paulette Votava Resch
Spirituals: We Will March Thro' The Valley - Jo Anne Taylor
Spirituals: I Want Two Wings
Spirituals: Is There Anybody Here - Barbara Meyer
Spirituals: My God Is A Rock - Todd Berry
Spirituals: Give Me Jesus

Amazon.com

Few recording producers and performers take the time and care to so intelligently exhibit a sampling of the rich and colorful American hymn repertoire. This thoughtful and varied program of hymns, Shaker songs, anthems, and spirituals shows what good things can happen when a top-rank choir and director and an accommodating record company join in such a project. The 20 selections come from a variety of sources, including The Southern Harmony (published in 1834) and The Sacred Harp (published in 1844). The Shaker tunes are from the vast collections at New Lebanon and Pleasant Hill, New York, and Sabbathday Lake, Maine. Four of the six spirituals and several of the hymns are arrangements by Alice Parker; others are arranged by James Mulholland. Among the hymns and spirituals are two American choral classics: Randall Thompson's famous and oft-performed "Alleluia" and Daniel Gawthrop's "Sing Me to Heaven." --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

The best choir out there.......2004-03-02

The Kansas City Chorale is a SUPERIOR vocal group. I am impressed by its large and wholesome sound that is produced by such a small group. The Alleluia CD is beautiful and also very diverse. "Sing me to Heaven" is gorgeous. The harmonies are beautiful on the page, but are even more beautiful when sung by this ensemble. "Alleluia" is also wonderful, and I was impressed by their interpretation of the many shaker songs and spirituals. This cd is a MUST HAVE for any choral singer or enthusiast.

Gorgeous.......2003-03-24

My choir sang "Alleluia", and used this recording to learn the dynamics. A brilliant performance of that piece. The others are, too, excellent. Good balance, dynamic, and overall sound. But the "Alleluia" really stood out for me.

An Excellent CD.......2002-01-23

My pastor bought me this CD and I wasn't sure I'd really like it. Chorale music? You must be joking. But I popped it into my CD player at home and was immediately astonished at what I heard. The Kansas City Chorale have done an outstanding job of singing hymns of various types, most without musical accompaniment. Track 7 ("Encouragement") is my absolute favorite song on this CD. It is so beautiful to hear, especially when I crank it on my big stereo or over my headphones.

Bottom line: if you like chorale music, religious music, or even classical music, you will really enjoy this CD. The quality of the recording is very good.

A moving survey of American hymns.......2002-01-02

This is an excellent, deeply musical performance of a wide variety of hymns, Shaker tunes, and spirituals. The choices provide variety and a thumbnail sketch of a time in America when hymn-singing was a part of every week's activities. I agree with another reviewer that "Precious Lord" is a highlight. Also noteworthy is "Give Me Jesus" at the end. Both the singing and acoustics of the recording are top notch. I have already played this CD many times since receiving it two days ago. I'm ordering copies for friends! Among my many choral CDs, this one stands out as a favorite.

a listener from North Kansas CIty.......2001-06-27

What a excellent CD! I got this for Christmas after going to a couple of their concerts and it sounds just as good as it did live. If you like chorale music then this is the cd for you. I personally know a man that sings in this group and is very talented singer along with the rest!

Average customer rating:

Understanding the Mystery of Easter
Easter Choral music: Behold the Bridegroom is magnificent
heaven and earth singing
Music to weep with joy to...
Extraordinary

Russian Easter

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Russian Christmas
Ancient Echoes
Russian Chant for Vespers
Russian Divine Liturgy
Basso Profondo From Old Russia

ASIN: B0000041KK
Release Date: 1997-03-11

Tracks:

Alleluia. Behold The Bridegroom
Gentle Light
Of Thy Mystical Supper, Op. 58
The Wise Thief, Op. 40 No. 3
Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent, Op. 27 No. 1
In the Flesh Thou Didst Fall Asleep
The Pascal Hours
Pascal Hymns To The Virgin
Today All Creation
Concerto No. 5: Come, O People (Concerto No. 5)
Give Ear To My Prayer, Op. 26

Amazon.com

The St. Petersburg Chamber Choir and their director, Nikolai Korniev, show off subbasement basses, soaring sopranos and a rich, well-blended sound in "Russian Easter," a group of eleven settings for Easter worship by Alexander Grechaninov, Dmitri Bortnyansky and other masters of Russian church music. The compositions were written variously from the 18th century through the present, but all stay true to the spirit and aesthetic of the Orthodox tradition. Those who find plainchant a little on the monotonous side but are still looking for a spiritual element in music will find much to admire and enjoy in these beautifully sung presentations. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

Understanding the Mystery of Easter.......2006-04-17

No matter the reason for focusing thoughts on higher matters at this time of year - the mysteries of Spring awakening, Passover, Easter, and the other festivals that celebrate the concept of renaissance - few recordings capture the essence of these mysteries as well as this recording of Russian Easter music.

Nikolai Korniev conducts the St Petersburg Chamber Choir in the ambience of the large cathedral in St Petersburg in a soaringly powerful recital of hymns and music written by various composers for the celebration of Easter. The choral sound is that special magic found in Russian choral singing, a sound that embraces the softest of pianissimos in contrast to the largest triple fortes grounded by that inimitable lushly rich Russian bass technique of singing.

No matter the listener's response to the Eastertide, this recording is simply some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring choral music collected on one CD. It stirs the soul and awakens the spirit. Highly recommended - for anytime of the year, too! Grady Harp, April 06

Easter Choral music: Behold the Bridegroom is magnificent.......2004-06-06

Listening to classical radio has once more paid unexpected dividends; yet again I discover a treasure that would have escaped my notice and I would never have otherwise heard.

This disc is a collection of Easter music performed by the St. Petersburg Chamber Choir under the direction of Nikolai Korniev. It is beautifully recorded in the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul in St. Petersburg, Russia; the wonderful acoustics of this magnificent structure adds to the spiritual effect that this music requires.

The entire CD is beautiful, but it is the very first piece on the disc (the one that I heard on radio) that caught my undivided attention, that being, " Alleluia, Behold the Bridegroom". This haunting melody played as quiet chant, repeated over and over, rises to a soft crescendo before it reaches its conclusion. It is hard to believe that this piece has gone virtually unnoticed; that it has not become a staple of sacred music through out the Christian world at Easter time. Even more astonishing is that the author of this incredible work has become lost with time; the creator, who in this case has flirted with a small measure of immortality, is simply recognized as "anonymous".

All in all, a CD that any lover of choral music (sacred or otherwise) would absolutely cherish and desire for their collection; but it is " Alleluia, Behold the Bridegroom" that will move your soul.
Highly recommended.

heaven and earth singing.......2003-11-23

From our great neighbour in the East comes this wonderful music that has served as a first aid kit for me when times have been rough and I have been driving along the Finnish countryside, just driving for many hours on roads deep into silent forests. You simply cannot maintain a hopeless and desperate feeling when listening to this music. It simply puts you back on track. And it reminds me of the fact that when really miserable you are not alone. Forget new age - this is old age music that takes your inner bad breath away and replaces it with gratitude and hope.

Music to weep with joy to..........2003-01-23

I came to this work via Loreena McKennitt's CD "The Book of Secrets" as the first track on "Russian Easter" is excerpted as the intro to her song "Dante's Prayer". So haunting is that hymn ("Alleluia, Behold the Bridegroom") that I find myself weeping every time I hear it.

We American evangelical Christians unfortunately hold the worship music of cultures other than ours at arms length. It is impossible, though, to hear this CD and not be staggered by the depth of worship it contains. Rarely does a work make me fall on my knees, but here it is in all its musical glory.

Featuring the hymns of primarily Russian composers, "Russian Easter" is a collection of eleven non-instrumental pieces performed by the remarkably adept St. Petersburg Chamber Choir. Centering around the theme of Christ's Passion, each hymn is superlative and perfectly suited for this collection.

Philips, the manufacturer/distributor, did a beautiful job with this disc, too. The sound is exquisite, particularly the bass voices, and the liner notes are very well done, including a brief exposition of each piece along with both the Cyrillic and English lyrics.

This is one CD I firmly believe every Christian should own. And if you're not in that fold yet, a few listens to "Russian Easter" will help you on your way.

Simply stunning!

Extraordinary.......2002-04-01

I rarely give five stars. I would give six if I could.

Tracks:

Silent Night
Hark! The Herald Angles Sing
We Three Kings Of Orient Are
Angels We Have Heard On High
O Tannenbaum
God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
It Came Upon The Midnight Clear
Von Himmel Hoch, Da Komm Ich Her
Sweet Li'l Jesus
Ave Maria
O Holy Night
Ave Maria
Alleluja

Customer Reviews:

The Ultimate Christmas CD.......2005-12-06

There are three or four CD's that are required listening in every December. Leontyne Price's makes the list-- with stars. This CD is a reissue from a LP recorded in 1961 and includes many, many great selections: Mendelssohn ("Hark!The Herald Angels Sing"), Schubert ("Ave Maria"), Bach ("Ave Maria" and "Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her") and Mozart ("Alleluja"). In addition, "Silent Night," "We Three Kings," "God rest ye merry, Gentlemen" and four other traditional Christmas songs are included. Ms. Price's a capella version of "Sweet li'l Jesus defies description. I'm not sure how to describe what she does on "Angels we have heard on High" except to say that her voice soars and floats as she plays with the melody line. She's obviously having a good time on this one. The two Bach numbers are wonderful, her version of "O Holy Night" is as good as any you'll ever hear, and the closing "Alleluja" is simply magnificent.

I purchased the LP of this "Leontyne Price Christmas Songs" the December that John Lennon was killed. It was a great comfort at such a dark time. It's a great gift for someone you love. I'm always surprised when music lovers have not heard of it. I cannot say enough good things about this CD that deserves more than five stars.

A True Muiscal Treasure.......2004-11-05

This is one of the recordings that made me fall in love with opera. My father owned a drugstore and I started working at eth store when I was in junior high. He loved Christmas and would always play holiday music once Thanksgiving arrived. He used 8-track tapes that could repeat over and over again. Most of the recordings would be light and airy music that would encourage people to shop, but every now and then he would slip in this Leontyne Price recording, much to the chagrin of the employees. I would often switch to the track that contained Ms. Price singing "Von Himmel Hoch" pretending it was a joke, but secretly I could hardly believe that anyone could create such music. I also loved her singing of Mozart's "Alleluia."

Now when I listen to Leontyne Price's Christmas album, I no longer pretend to make fun of it. I suppose I have become my father (musically at least) and simply enjoy it. As I listen to it today, I am less impressed with Ms. Price's tremendous vocal gifts, as wonderful as they are, but of her ability to bring out the richness of each work she performs. The simple title of the recording CHRISTMAS SONGS is appropriate because the recording is about the music itself, not the performer. From my point of view this makes the recording unique. I have a number of Christmas recordings in my collection from just about every opera singer imaginable, but I always find that this recording is one of the best vocally because Price obviously loves the music, brings the music to life in her signature style, but allows the recording to be about the music and not the performer. Come to think of it, she did this onstage as well, which may be why she is considered by so many to be a musician rather than a performer and why she was so beloved when she sang and her recordings are still treasured by so many to this day.

"La Splendissima" at Xmas: A Priceless Gem of Great PRICE!.......2003-03-30

There's no need to tarry too long in this 'review'. Others have already eloquently lavished praise on this recording. I simply must add my own hosanna to theirs. Without a doubt, the singing of soprano Leontyne Price -"La Splendissima" - is incomparable here. There has never been a soprano with a timbre so incredibly distinctive & beautiful that also infuses her music with a rare humanity and humility. Every Christmas is inauguarated with this recording at my home, and those fortunate enough to receive this CD as a gift from me, are infinitely grateful & astounded by Ms. Price's gifts.(especially those not inclined to Opera singers!)
Her collaboration here with Maestro Von Karajan is just as rewarding as all of the others including "Carmen", "Tosca", the Verdi "Requiem"(VHS/DVD), and a legendary "Il Trovatore". These (2) musical 'giants' seem to derive inspiration from each other that ignites a passionate response from each as well. Nowhere is this more evident than in their now 'classic' rendition of the Schubert "Ave Maria". Listen to the ethereal, voice-like intro of the orchestral strings that precedes Ms. Price's celestial vocalism. It's magical! The programme is diverse and deeply satisfying for the Season. Miss Price's singing, whether in this rep, singing Spirituals, the recital stage, or Grand Opera, is almost always an inveterately soulful experience. It is no less so here. Celebrate the Season (any Season you like) with "La Splendissima" Leontyne Price singing classical 'Soul' music at Christmas. Get this!!!!!!!!

Can't I give it 10 stars?.......2002-12-19

This contains what must be some of the most beautiful voice music, anywhere, any style - period.

The Ave Maria (first) and O Holy Night are absolutely transcendental!

This review is short because nothing else can be said.

Finally - Price's "Alleluia".......2002-10-24

I have this LP and have been waiting for it to come out in CD because the Mozart "Alleluia" (from the Exsultate Jubilate)is the most beautiful version I've ever heard. Leontyne's voice is like a crytal bell.

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