Poulenc: Sacred Vocal Music

On this CD:

1. Quatre motets pour un temps de pénitence, for chorus, FP 97
Composed by Francis Poulenc

2. Litanies à la Vierge Noire, for women's chorus & organ (or strings & timpani), FP 82
Composed by Francis Poulenc

3. Quatre petites prières de Saint François d'Assise, for men's chorus, FP 142
Composed by Francis Poulenc

4. Salve Regina, for chorus, FP 110
Composed by Francis Poulenc

5. Mass in G major for chorus, FP 89
Composed by Francis Poulenc

6. Quatre motets pour le temps de Noël, for chorus, FP 152
Composed by Francis Poulenc

7. Work(s) Melodies, for baritone and organ
Composed by Francis Poulenc

8. Ave Verum Corpus, motet for female voices, FP 154
Composed by Francis Poulenc

9. Laudes de Saint Antoine de Padoue (4), for male chorus, FP 172
Composed by Francis Poulenc

10. Requiem, for eight voices
Composed by Charles (composer) Brown

Tracks:

Ave Maria
Jesu bleibet meine Freude
Dank sei dir, Herr
Ave Maria, D839
Laudamus te
Panis Angelicus
Air: "He shall feed his Flock"
Simple Song
Pie Jesu
Domine Deus
Laudate Dominum omnes gentes
Air: Rejoice greatly, o daughter of Zion
Abends will ich schlafen gehn
L'Adieu des bergers
Mariiegenlied, Op.76/52
Amazing Grace

Amazon.com

This lovely CD features Renée Fleming singing religious music in an unaffected, lovely manner. Many favorites are here: both the Bach/Gounod and Schubert versions of "Ave Maria," each offered with long breaths and soft tone; "Rejoice Greatly" from Messiah, delivered with virtuosity and gleaming sound, and "He Shall Feed His Flock," also from Messiah, sung in a smooth, laid-back manner. Bits of the Fauré Requiem and Poulenc Gloria are welcome, as is the gorgeous "L'Adieu des Bergers" from L'Enfance du Christ. In the prayer from Humperdinck's Hansel und Gretel, Fleming is joined by the splendid Susan Graham, and a version of "Amazing Grace" features Mark O'Connor on violin. Two excerpts from Mozart's Mass in C Minor, pieces by Reger and Franck, and a few surprises round out this devotional CD. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

I hate to be rude, but . . ........2007-05-06

As stated earlier, I hate to be rude. However, Renee Fleming is not one of the greatest singers that I have heard. At many times, it sounds as if she is drunk, sliding into her notes at times. She also has a habit of hitting a note, and then quickly moving up or down for "dramatic effect". I'm sorry, but I just cannot listen to this. I know that everyone has their own opinions, and this is mine.
She is still a beautiful woman, and always will be. I have seen her concerts online, and she ISN'T bad, it's just that she doesn't have what I'm looking for in an opera singer!

Outstanding.......2007-03-07

I had seen this program on PBS and wanted the CD. Wonderful selection
of music and Renee Fleming's outstanding voice.

Sacred Songs.......2007-01-21

I always look for new presentations of Christmas songs. Rene Flemming did an excellent job in this recording. She has a super voice but sometimes the words of the song get lost in her singing style

My favorite of Fleming's CDs so far.......2006-12-07

There are only two cuts on this CD I tend to flip past (Amazing Grace and the Leonard Bernstein cut), but other than them, I totally love the rest! The cuts in German are divine! I could listen to this CD over and over again.

Inspiring and beautiful.......2006-07-20

I've always loved Renee Fleming's singing and this most recent album is just beautiful in every way. A rich voice, beautiful singing and a devout and magnificent artist. She makes even the most notorious evergreens come to life anew. I enjoyed it very much.

Average customer rating:

This is an amazing, amazing product
a voice teacher and early music fan
Incredible
Very inspiring for this Christian (Catholic)
Amazing!

O Magnum Mysterium
Thomas Tallis , Tomas Luis de Victoria , Morten Lauridsen , Francis Poulenc , Sergey Rachmaninov , Franz Schubert , Anonymous , Spiritual Traditional , Henryk Gorecki , Christopher Cock , Robert Shaw Festival Singers , and Robert Shaw Chamber Singers
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

Lauridsen: Lux Aeterna, etc. / Salamunovich, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Sergei Rachmaninoff: Vespers (Mass for Unaccompanied Chorus)
Choral Masterpieces
Agnus Dei: Music of Inner Harmony
Morten Lauridsen: Lux aeterna

ASIN: B00004WFLW
Release Date: 2000-08-22

Tracks:

If Ye Love Me
A New Commandment
O Vos Omnes
O Magnum Mysterium
O Magnum Mysterium
O Magnum Mysterium
Praise The Name Of The Lord
Der Entfernten
Wondrous Love
Amazing Grace
Sometimes I Feel Like Moanin'
Totus Tuus

Amazon.com

The trademark qualities of a Robert Shaw-trained chorus included perfect tonal blend and balance, expressive phrasing, and superb tuning. As an interpreter, Shaw hewed to the middle road, steering clear of eccentricities and honoring the composer's intentions. On this tribute disc, we hear these virtues coalesce in works such as Poulenc's austere Christmas hymn "O magnum mysterium," one of three settings of the text here. Shaw was at his best in works whose fervent spirituality he shared, and the selection from Rachmaninov's Vespers, with its repeated alleluias, is a highlight, both radiant and passionate. But then, virtually everything here is a highlight: the Schubert part song done to a turn with soft singing projected in rounded tones; the curve of "Wondrous Love"'s melody perfectly traced; and "Amazing Grace" in Shaw's arrangement all the more moving for its calm dignity. The longest piece, Górecki's Marian hymn "Totus tuus," is otherworldly in an enthralled reading that never loses focus. Like all of Shaw's Telarc recordings, the sonics are first-class. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

This is an amazing, amazing product.......2007-02-07

The only part of the CD I would quibble with is the selection from Rachmaninov's Vespers, but I'm really lucky and have heard that performed live several times and heard multiple recordings, and decided on one that I liked best early on.

If you aren't blown away by the performance of the Tallis, you'll probably still cry when you hear the Lauridsen later in the CD. One thing about this CD is that after hearing it, my standard for what I could expect in a recording became a lot higher.

a voice teacher and early music fan.......2007-01-17

When Robert Shaw retired in 1988 as Conductor of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra he returned to the conducting of unaccompanied choral music, that he had been involved with in the Robert Shaw Chorale in the 1950's and early 60's.
The selections on this disc are taken from several different Telarc recordings that were made at summer festivals he directed during the last decade of his life.
The Poulenc "O Magnum Mysterium" is one of the four motets on a Christmas album made in 1989. "Wondrous Love", "Amazing Grace", and "Sometimes I Feel Like a Moanin' Dove" are from the collection of 'American Hymns and Spirituals', performed and recorded in 1992. Gorecki's motet "Totus Tuus" appeared on 'Evocation of the Spirit' recorded in 1994.
In the Summer of 1989, the first year of Shaw's choral festivals in France yielded an impressive array of unaccompanied music which included Rachmaninoff's 'Vespers' or 'All Night Vigil', Op.37, the 2 Thomas Tallis pieces and the two in Latin by Vittoria.
"Der Entfernten" comes from a collection of 'Schubert Songs' for Male Chorus taped in the Summer of 1992. Morton Luridsen's 'O magnum mysterium', the most recent composition on this disc as well as the last recorded (1997), was included on 'A Robert Shaw Christmas'.
It is interesting to note that there are no less than three settings of the anonymous medieval text "O Magnum Mysterium". Shaw, a deeply spiritual man, often lamented about the commercialism that had pervaded the celebraton of the American Christmas. He retained a sincere awe for the miraculous details of the Nativity story, and it was natural that he should return again to music having this text, with its wondrous mixture of the homespun and the mystical, the lowly and the most high.

This is a truly interesting variety of compositions featuring a diversified group of fine composers!!!!.Any choral group that Shaw conducted always sang with much emotion and always great skill. There is never a 'ragged' entrance OR exit; there is never poor balance between the voices; the diction is crisp and clear and never 'muddied'; and the sound is ethereally beautiful. I would have liked to know who the personnel were in each of his 2 groups on this disc, but they were not listed, so I guess I never will know. Just a fabulous recording!!!!!

Incredible.......2005-08-02

Who can listen to this without being humbled, yet enriched, as if walking through the courts of sacred and simple places?

Very inspiring for this Christian (Catholic).......2004-07-22

I'd swear that Robert Shaw must have visited heaven and come back to write his rendition of O Magnum Mysterium (particularly track #5 with the chamber singers). It's my favorite classical piece, especially among choral works. I'd love to be in a great gothic cathedral like Notre Dame or Cologne and hear this piece. Even though you'll likely only be hearing this recording through your headphones in your room, it'll take you to the cathedrals and heaven itself.

I read somewhere that Robert Shaw was deeply religious/spiritual. I have no reason to doubt this...his faith shines through on this disk. I couldn't recommend it highly enough.

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband; and I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Behold, the dwelling of God is with men. He will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself will be with them; he will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning nor crying nor pain any more, for the former things have passed away." - Revelation 21

Amazing!.......2004-02-10

In my choir at school, we are singing O Magnum Mysterium; I can't help from sinking into its soft harmonies. How to describe this feeling?--each bar more poignant than the last; dynamically profound; crystal clear tone; that clash between tenors in the chorus...it makes me believe in love and god all at once! Spectacular, this CD is--how lucky I am to have found it. Recommended to anyone with hearing.

Average customer rating:

a voice teacher and early music fan
Outstandingly beautiful- a great legend in our time
Follow the Leider...For He Is David Daniels
Countertenors: They're not just for Baroque Anymore!
Beyond Gimmick

David Daniels - Serenade
Christoph Willibald Gluck , Antonio Caldara , Antonio Cesti , Franz Schubert , Ludwig van Beethoven , Antonio Lotti , Charles Gounod , Ralph Vaughan Williams , Francis Poulenc , Henry Purcell , David Daniels , and Martin Katz
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Handel: Opera Arias; David Daniels
Sento Amor; David Daniels;
A Quiet Thing; David Daniels & Craig Ogden
Berlioz: Les Nuits d'Été
Handel: Oratorio Arias

ASIN: B00004SRG1
Release Date: 2000-06-06

Tracks:

Adelaide Op.46
Der Tod Und Das Madchen D531
Auf Dem Wasser Zu Singen D774
Nacht Und Traume D827
Adelaide D95
Selve Amiche, Ombrose Piante
O Del Mio Dolce Ardor
Intorno All'idol Mio
Pur Dicesti, O Bocca Bella
L'Absent
Ou Voulez-Vous Aller?
Absence
Ser
Orpheus With His Lute
Linden Lea
Hands, Eyes And Heart
C'est Ainsi Que Tu Es FP 121 (Metamorphoses No.2)
Priez Pour Paix FP 95
La Belle Jeunesse FP 42 (Chansons Gaillardes No.7)
Sweeter Than Roses
I'll Sail Upon The Dog Star
Evening Hymn

Amazon.com's Best of 2000

It's a truism by now that countertenors have made a notable comeback in our time, but David Daniels--Amazon.com's Opera & Vocal Artist of 2000--isn't about to rest on his laurels. As if his recent successes weren't enough to set him apart, on this recital album Daniels forays beyond the countertenor's stereotypical domain of the baroque to interpret lieder of Beethoven and Schubert, as well as French mélodies and Vaughan Williams. A stunningly beautiful disc. --Thomas May

Customer Reviews:

a voice teacher and early music fan.......2006-05-30

The German and French art-song developed in parallel,but although they shared the same creative process based on the two key elements of words and music, they are distinct one from the other in their aim. Beethoven was one of the first to usher in the 'Leid'. Between 1795 and 1796 he drew inspiration from Friedich von Matthisson for his cantata 'Adelaide'. In 1814 Schubert set the same poem for his own 'Adelaide'. More than three-quarters of Schubert's songs are nature pictures as is 'Auf dem Wasser zu singen' on this disc. Other composers included on this recording are:Caldara-Gluck-Cesti-Lotte-Gounod-VaughanWilliams-Poulenc and Purcell.This disc absolutely delighted me. I can think of only one other countertenor who could have "pulled off" the variety of songs Daniels performs on this album. Most of them are quite well-known at least to singers and actually could be considered trite but not the way David Daniels sings them. He is so skillful with strong tone production when needed and always perfect diction. I marvel at the way he can implement the highly dramatic Italian aria and then sing the light "wispy" French songs. My personal favorites are "Adelaide" by Schubert. "Ou voulez-vous aller?" by Gounod and "I'll Sail Upon the DogStar by Purcell. In fact, if you are a Daniel's fan you MUST hear the Dog Star!!!!!

Outstandingly beautiful- a great legend in our time.......2005-06-22

This is a truly unique voice. David Daniels has an opulent timbre which he uses here to achieve sheer excellence. As much as I hate for his career to be upstaged by anything, knowing that he was tutored by Marilyn Horne seems to establish her vocal qualities as a suitable metaphor. It's that rich, opulent tone and secure vibrato that you don't get with some mezzos, let alone countertenors. No thin-ness here; no `hoot' and nothing shrill. He still has control though, and produces clean, even tones where appropriate. Think of the dramatic requirements of `Der Tod und das Madchen' and the celestial purity of `Absence' or `Ser'- he more than merely achieves the standards, he surpassed them and has set his own seal of distinction.

The choice of songs/arias is itself brilliant and Mr. Daniels' technique needs high praise. As a very minor observation, his diction, though good, doesn't come across as completely idiomatic. This is a VERY minor issue though. The pianist, Martin Katz is very responsive to the style of singing. Mr. Daniels' ability to sustain a phrase with grace and beauty is matched by Mr. Katz's sensitive touch and timing.

In parting, I recommend the ethereal experience of `Orpheus with his lute' (my favourite). The words, a Shakespearean sonnet, are of a straightforward beauty and the melody is from another realm but the singing? Mr. Daniels vocal control and phrasing are exquisite and his tone is sublime. Close your eyes and listen to this one quiet evening. "In sweet music is such art, killing care and grief of heart. Fall asleep, or hearing die." A lute and a song- a simple combination; yet profoundly moving beyond the raging elements. Thank you David.

Follow the Leider...For He Is David Daniels.......2004-08-18

Countertenor David Daniels takes a breather from his beloved Handel arias this time around for a recording of sheer beauty and most often tranquility, all the more surprising given the wide variety of tempos and international breadth of the program spanning five centuries. German leider from Beethoven and Schubert sits alongside Italian baroque songs followed by alternating French and English art songs. The 22 selections, once again reflecting his consummate musical taste, require him to sing in four different languages, and this South Carolina-born and -bred singer handles the daunting task with complete ease.

The result is a seamless recital, and the disc flows like an unfolding dream starting with Beethoven's enchanting "Adelaide". Schubert's "Naucht and Traume" highlights the purity of his tone and is as perfectly performed as any of his most moving opera arias. The Gounod pieces, especially "L'Absent" and the title track, have a sonorous quality that feel very much like lullabies, the sole exception being the lively "Ou voulez-vous aller?". Poulenc's "La belle Jeunesse" continues along this vein, a whirling dervish of a number referred in the accompanying booklet as an "invitation to debauchery". But these tracks are more the exception as Daniels achieves a lovely sense of vocal beatitude throughout.

The standout tracks have to be the three beautiful and somewhat more contemporary-sounding Vaughan Williams songs capped off by "Hands, eyes and heart", short and poignant, it is my favorite moment on this recording. The Renaissance-era Purcell selections provide the appropriate ending though, in particular, "Evening Hymn" sparked by the growing melismas on the hallelujahs. Whether he exhibits an astounding vibrato or the purest of tones, the man knows how to use his incredibly flexible voice and apply it intelligently to each song. Martin Katz accompanies with great precision and completely recognizes the individual style each song requires. It makes for a perfect pairing between singer and piano. This is a recording to treasure.

Countertenors: They're not just for Baroque Anymore!.......2004-03-23

OK, so it's a bad pun. Shoot me.

But get this wonderful disc! Daniels talent is well-served by this varied program.. he goes beyond Handel to sing Beethoven, Gounoud, Vaughan-Williams.

Don't just buy this for the novelty of countertenor singing: the singing would be 5 star had any mezzo (Bartoli, van Otter) sung with this sensitivity. It's superb in every regard.

Beyond Gimmick.......2002-08-01

At first it seems odd...countertenors are supposed to stay within certain boundaries. We let them have Baroque music, and even Gluck, and of course we let them have 20th century things written specifically for them, especially Britten. But to hear a countertenor singing Schubert, Beethoven or French melodies goes against our expectations. So we think, this must be a gimmick. But then Daniels voice takes over and such questions disappear.

Daniels sings this music as if it was inteneded for the countertenor. His sensitivity to the intimate marriage of text and music is phenomenal and his tone is always light and lyrical. I prefer this to many overblown sopranos that I've heard. Daniels weaves a spell that few singers of any voice type can match.

The Gounod is particularly beautiful. I had not been familiar with Gounod's art song before, and I've been missing something. L'Absent brought tears to my eyes just as the best Melodie of Duparc or Faure. And he sings Schubert as if he was born to it.

Tracks:

Great Is The Lord, Op. 67
Sanctus And Agnus Dei
Omnes gentes, plaudit manibus: Omnes gentes, plaudite manibus
Super flumina Babylonis
O sacrum convivium
Sanctus
Deus, Deus meus
Ave verum corpus
Agnus Dei
Ave verum corpus
Hei mihi, Domine
Nunc dimittis
Ave Maria, Op. 23, No. 2
Magnificat For Double Choir, Op. 164

Customer Reviews:

Stupendous majesty and awe.......2007-03-21

Westminster Cathedral Choir is one of the finest Catholic Choirs if not in the UK. Anyone who has never visited the building would be blown away by the sheer size of it with a long nave and fine Willis Organ facing the West end position. This collection of delights are a delight for any listener who appreciates the old masters to the more contemporary. The Britten is a revelation and the longest work is the double magnificat by Charles Stanford. Notice how the Choir stay perfectly in tune on the note and never tired of such a work which is unaccompanied. A real treat.

A Definitive Collection.......1999-09-28

This disc is ideal for anyone who is curious about the Roman Catholic Cathedral just down the road from Westminster Abbey. It features music from all ages, all of which is brilliantly sung. Of course, since it covers such a broad range of styles, it is what I like to call a "buffet" CD- there's always a firm favourite item, rubbing proverbial shoulders with something less appealing. For instance, I am very taken by the Panufnik work "Deus meus es tu" but find such items as the Palestrina quite dull (although other works from that period such as the Byrd "Ave verum" are most arresting). On the whole, this disc is the definitive "voice" of Westminster Cathedral Choir, and it will be interesting to see what happens when director James O'Donnell takes over at Westminster Abbey in the new year. A broad mix of music that is good value for money.

Average customer rating:

The Westminster Choir -O Magnum Mysterium

O Magnum Mysterium

Manufacturer: Chesky Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

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

Te Deum | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Like As A Hart-Psalms & Spiritual Songs
Heaven to Earth [Hybrid SACD]
Westminster Choir at Spoleto Festival U.S.A.
Lauridsen: Lux Aeterna, etc. / Salamunovich, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Bach: Cantatas BWV 82 and 199

ASIN: B000003GDT
Release Date: 1992-11-09

Tracks:

And I Saw A New Heaven
Festival Te Deum
O Magnum Mysterium
O Magnum Mysterium
O Magnum Mysterium
O Sacrum Convivium
Ave Verum Corpus
Kyrie (from Requiem)
Ave Verum Corpus
Behold! I Build a House
Ave Maria
Ave Maria
Ave Maria
Lass dich nur nichts nicht dauren(Let Nothing Ever Grieve Thee)
I Was Glad When They Said Unto Me
The Lord Bless You And Keep You

Customer Reviews:

The Westminster Choir -O Magnum Mysterium.......2000-02-29

The Westminster Choir -O Magnum Mysteriu

Average customer rating:

Glorious Trinity
Anonymous , Johann Sebastian Bach , Johannes Brahms , Maurice Durufle , Gabriel Faure , Olivier Messiaen , Sir Charles H.H. Parry , Francis Poulenc , Henry Purcell , Heinrich Schutz , Charles Villiers Stanford , Christmas Traditional , Tomas Luis de Victoria , William Walton , and Cambridge The Choir of Trinity College
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

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

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

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

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
ASIN: B0000024C7
Release Date: 1995-07-18

Tracks:

Glorious Trinity: Magnificat
Glorious Trinity: Never Weather-Beaten Sail
Psalms Of David: Der Herr sprach zu meinem, Herren
Glorious Trinity: I Was Glad
Glorious Trinity: Ubi caritas
Glorious Trinity: Tota pulchra es
Lobet den Herrn: I. Lobet den Herrn BWV.320
Lobet den Herrn: II. Hallelujah!
Glorious Trinity: Seigneur, je vous en prie
Glorious Trinity: Exultate Deo
Glorious Trinity: Requiem - In paradisum
Der Geist hilft unsrer Schwachheit auf, BWV.226: I. Der Geist hilft unsrer Schwachheit auf: II. Der aber die Herzen: III. Du heilige Brunst
Glorious Trinity: Hear My Prayer
Glorious Trinity: Judas Mercator
Glorious Trinity: Unus Ex Discipulis
Glorious Trinity: O Sacrum Convivium!
Glorious Trinity: Eternal Father
Glorious Trinity: Geistliches Lied
There Is No Rose
Of The Father's Heart
Sweet Was The Song
Glorious Trinity: Requiem - Sanctus

Average customer rating:

Make A Joyful Noise

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | 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

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

$6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

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Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring / Mormon Tabernacle Choir
Rock of Ages: 30 Favorite Hymns
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir's Greatest Hits: 22 Best-Loved Favorites
More Greatest Hits: 18 Best Loved Favorites
Lord's Prayer

ASIN: B0000029NL
Release Date: 1995-11-14

Tracks:

The Creation: Awake The Harp
Cantata No. 147: Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Mass In G Major: Gloria In Excelsis Deo
Heavenly Father (Ave Maria)
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
St. Paul: Rise Up, Arise
St. Paul: See What Love
Onward, Christian Soldiers
The Lord's Prayer
Battle Hymn Of The Republic
Messa di Gloria: Gloria
Gloria: Gloria In Excelsis Deo
Requiem: Sanctus
Gloria: Laudamus Te
Lord Nelson Mass: Sanctus
Mass In C Minor, K. 427: Gloria
Praise The Lord
Mass In E-Flat Major, D. 950: Gloria
Requiem Mass: Sanctus
Messiah: Hallelujah

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Virtuoso Choral Music

Manufacturer: Clarion
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

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

A Cappella | Folk | Styles | Music

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500 Years of European Choral Music

ASIN: B00006KRXR
Release Date: 2002-09-01

Tracks:

Monteverdi: Sestina "Lagrime d'amante al sepolcro dell'amata;
Dallapiccola: Il Coro delle Malmaritate;
Il Coro del Malammogllati;
Pizzetti: Tre composizioni corali;
Werle: Nautical Preludes;
Ach, Herr, strafe mich nicht, op. 110 No 2;
Reger: Acht gelstliche Gese, op. 138;
R. Strauss: Die Gn im Putzzimmer;
Der Abend;
Poulenc: Sept Chansons;
Jolivet: Epithalame;
Messiaen: Cinq Rechants;
Martin: Messe

Album Description

For more than 30 years, these ground-breaking recordings by the legendary Eric Ericson have been the standard for choral interpretation. While often out-of-print or only available as a costly import, these recordings by Maestro Ericson with the Rundfunkchor Stockholm and Stockholmer Kammerchor are a virtual omnibus of choral literature.

The Clarion label was founded by Stanley Schmidt- a distinguished music educator, choral director, radio personality and businessman, for the purpose of showcasing the great choral recordings from the past and provide contemporary choirs with a vehicle to promote their own recordings. Mr. Schmidt is also President of CollegiumUSA.com, one of the country's largest and most celebrated distributors of recorded choral music.

Tracks:

Vespro della Beata Vergine: Domine ad adiuvandum
Mass In B Minor: Qui sedes at dexteram patris (soloist Cecilia Bartoli)
Vesperolemnes de confessore K 339: Laudate Dominum (Cecilia Bartoli)
Requiem: Lacrimosa
The Creation: Stimmt an die Saiten
Mass: Sanctus
Locus iste
Nabucco: Va' pensiero sull'ali dorate
The Well Tempered Clavier: Ave Maria - Bruckner
Requiem: Pie Jesu (Cecilia Bartoli)
Requiem: Libera me (Bryn Terfel)
Requiem: Sanctus
Gloria: Gloria in excelsis Deo
Song For Athene
I Believe (Andrea Bocelli)

Amazon.com

This is the second installment in a recording project originally inspired by Pope John Paul II's visit to Paris in 1997 to celebrate the Worldwide Days of Youth. A surprisingly effective anthology of mostly sacred liturgical music, the selections here occasionally give the impression of "bleeding chunks" (as in the majestic opener from one of Monteverdi's sublimest creations, the 1610 Vespers) but have been chosen with imagination. Chung coordinates his forces in larger choral pieces with power and vertical balance, making a standout of the Beethovenian mystery and drive apparent in the "Sanctus" from Schubert's Mass in E-flat. Contributions by Cecilia Bartoli find the mezzo in top form--listen to her finely spun line interweave with the oboe d'amore in a selection from Bach's B Minor Mass--and as evocative as bright stained glass in Fauré's "Pie Jesu." Bryn Terfel brings charismatic presence to his one selection here (also from the Fauré Requiem). Also included are the interminable "Song for Athene" by John Taverner and a sentimental but earnest performance by Andrea Bocelli in Eric Levi's hymn for the world, "I Believe." --Thomas May

Customer Reviews:

Just regular.......2004-11-18

I am giving only 2 stars to this CD because, though featuring really "famous" names such as Bartoli and Terfel, the overall sound is not as good as one expects it to be, maybe due to sound technicians, I could not say.
But what I think it's WORST about this album, is the Laudate Dominum (from Visperae de Confessore, by Mozart) performance by the Santa Cecilia Academy Choir. Being a choir alt singer myself and having sang the piece a few times, it pierces my ears to hear the altos out of tune IN THE FIRST LINE OF THE CHOIR SCORE!!!! How could the recording company put this in the market? Did nobody in the recording notice it? And the choir conductor? I would be ashamed of having a recording of my choir out of tune.

Uniformly good, except for one rather nasty exception.......2003-11-05

This collection (Also released as "Voices from Heaven", I believe) provides a nice retrospective of 400 years of sacred music. The choir is strong overall, and Bartoli and Bocelli (in his one song) prove admirable soloists, especially in the "Pie Jesu".

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Terfel, and for the "Libera Me" in general. What was the purpose of Faure carefully cutting most of the Dies Irae and hellfire passages if the singers attempt to put it all back in in an overdramatic rendition?

Knocked My Socks Off!.......2002-10-11

As a choral singer, I am familiar with most of these works, but this recording knocked my socks off when I heard excerpts from it on a local classical music radio station. Not only does this CD group together some of the best music anywhere, but the performances are fantastic. The choral group has a remarkable precision and clarity in their sound that is admirable. And wonderful soloists. In summary, you might have heard many of these pieces elsewhere, but the impact of having these great performances all on one CD is amazing.

Worth One Song.......2001-09-03

This CD is worth having JUST for "I Believe" sung by Andrea Bocelli. Enough said!

ATTENTION, FANS: NEW BOCELLI CD RELEASE IN OCTOBER.......2001-06-16

I'm not actually "reviewing" this album. Andrea's got a new CD debuting in October. Watch out for it. The end.

Average customer rating:

Best Christmas album ever
LOVELY!!!!
A very lovely Christmas disc

The Mystery of Christmas

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

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

General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Opera & Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music

Opera & Vocal | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music

$7 - $10 | Today's Deals | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music

Under $7 | Today's Deals | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music

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

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Healey Willan: In the Heavenly Kingdom
Christmas Carols from Tewkesbury Abbey
Christmas With the Dale Warland Singers

ASIN: B0000014GZ
Release Date: 1998-09-08

Tracks:

The Huron Carol
Ring-a The News
O Come All Ye Faithful
Harold Drake: In the Bleak Mild Winter
Healey Willan: The Three Kings
King Jesus Hath A Garden
Franz Grueber: Silent Night
Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day
Arthur Honneger: Laudate Dominum
O Magnum Mysterium
Poulenc: Quatre motets pour le temps de Noel - Wuem Vidistis pastoredictie
Poulenc: Quatre motets pour le temps de Noel - Videntes stellam
Hodie Christus Natus Est
Ding Dong Merrily On High
Elizabeth Poston: Jesus Christ the Appple Tree
John Rutter: What Sweeter Music
The Linden Tree Carol
A Hymn To The Virgin
Star In The South
Hark The Herald Angels Sing
God Is With Us - A Christmas Proclamation

Customer Reviews:

Best Christmas album ever.......2006-12-27

I found this album quite by accident in a college bookstore in a small town outside of Toronto. We played it (June!) on our way to Northern Ontario, gasped at its beauty, read the liner notes, and discovered that we were actually passing by Elora! On our return trip, we stopped in at Elora and learned more about the singers and the festival. This album is so remarkable in its clarity, sensitivity, and variety, that it ranks as my all-time favorite Christmas album. The family members and friends to whom I have since given this CD share my enthusiasm for this magical Christmas tour.

LOVELY!!!!.......2006-02-25

Maybe I'm a LITTLE bit prejudiced in favor of this fine album because it contains some of my favorite Christmas songs, or because it also has some of the beautiful songs my choral group sang last Christmas -- whatever -- The Elora Festival Singers, with Noel Edison and Michael Bloss and everyone else involved in creating this CD, do a wonderful job of transmitting the holy, joyful, festive AND secular air of that special season.

I especially loved "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day" and will probably wear out that track long before I wear out the rest of this fine CD.

It is almost March, and I'm still playing this CD. I may end up getting a second copy.

A very lovely Christmas disc.......2000-08-29

According to the notes, the Elora Festival Singers is a professional chamber choir founded in 1980 by their director, Noel Edison. The name comes from a musical festival given every summer in Elora, Ontario. They have performed on the Canadian Broadcasting System, and given concerts in Eastern Canada and the United States. They are now the professional core group of the famous Toronto Mendelssohn Choir.

They are a very competent choir, singing everything on this disc with ease and beauty. Most of the carols are pretty well known, and include some from Canada, England, France, Holland and Poland. There are the 'Huron Carol,' 'O Come All Ye Faithful,' 'Harold Darke's 'In the Bleak Mid Winter," "Ding Dong Merrily on High,' 'Hark the Herald Angels Sing,' and some less common ones. The less usual items include Honegger's 'Laudate Dominum' and Poulenc's 'Quatre motets pour le temps de Noël,' which are performed very simply and effectively.

The Elora Festival Singers is not apparently a very large group, but the reverberant recording makes them sound larger. Their excellent diction is not obscured, and the sound is very smooth.

The organ accompaniment by Michael Bloss are very effective, and include some room filling bass, although it is not super low.

The music ranges from the more peaceful and meditative to the more dramatic, and the choir conveys the varying moods of the music. The recording is quite lovely.

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4-11-44