Magnificat

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
In the wake of its previous, Grammy-winning disc of contemporary madrigals (Colors of Love), the all-male a cappella ensemble that calls itself Chanticleer--in homage to Chaucer's Canterbury Tales --comes home to roost in this theme album of early music. After all, this is the territory that Chanticleer first staked out when the group banded together in 1978, and the return is most welcome. Magnificat offers manifold rewards, from the sensitive, imaginative culling of its program to the warmth and lithe interweaving of vocal layers in its execution (vividly recorded in splendid 20/24-bit process at the Skywalker Ranch)--not to mention the capsule music history that it traces. Like depictions of the Annunciation in medieval and Renaissance paintings, musical settings of texts that are centered on Mary abound during this period. Chanticleer's anthology includes familiar gems (the hymn "Ave Maris Stella"), but the group is delightfully unpredictable in many of its choices: examples of the polychoral sacred music of Russian Vasily Titov, contrafactum reworkings of two Monteverdi madrigals to Marian texts, and a full Magnificat setting by Tudor master John Taverner. The latter gives a microcosm of Chanticleer's vocal versatility, presenting stern, unadorned plainsong side-by-side with melodies that blossom like tendrils. Or listen to the ensemble's dynamic control, from the exultant climaxes of the Titov choral concerto to the achingly beautiful, held diminuendo on the second Monteverdi piece. Most impressive of all is that Chanticleer manages to avoid the bane of a cappella groups--a bland, homogenized sameness of sound--through its subtle variations in color and thoughtful musicality. A real treasure. --Thomas May

Description
The award-winning men's vocal ensemble Chanticleer returns to the hypnotic sounds of earlier times with this collection of works in praise of the Virgin. A fascinating variety of approaches to the great Magnificat text is represented here, from 7th century chant through the golden years of the Renaissance polyphonists Palestrina, Taverner, and Josquin, and up through the Baroque composers Monteverdi and Vasily Titov. Tracks and Notables: Ave Maria; Ave Maria, Mater Dei; Magnificat; Stabat Virgo... read more --This text refers to the DVD Audio edition.

Magnificat

Tracks:

Toccata In D Minor For Organ
Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 In F: I. Allegro
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G: I. Allegro
Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 In D: II. Affetuoso
Concerto For 2 Violins In D Minor: I. Vivace
Concerto For 2 Violins In D Minor: II. Adagio
Violin Concerto No. 1 In A Minor: I. Allegro
Violin Concerto No. 2 In E: I. Allegro
Magnificat In D: Magnificat
Magnificat In D: Deposuit potentes
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude 1
Concerto For 3 Harpsichords In C: II. Adagio
Concerto For 2 Harpsichords In C Minor: II. Adagio
Concerto For 4 Harpsichords In A Minor: First Movement
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Toccata, Adagio & Fugue In C: II. Adagio
Partita No. 3 For Solo Violin: Prelude
2-Part Invention: No. 8 In F
Wachet Auf: Sleepers Awake
Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 In G: III. Presto
Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 In F: III. Allegro assai
Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 In D: III. Allegro
Orchestral Suite No. 2 In B Minor: VII. Badinerie
Mass In B Minor: Gloria
Mass In B Minor: Dona Nobis Pacem

Customer Reviews:

Just what you would expect.......2007-05-19

I was looking for a CD of exclusively Bach music, not necessarily played by a famous artist or orchestra. This had a lot of his well-known pieces and was exactly what I was looking for.

Wonderful collection and price!.......2007-05-11

I found this to be a nice collection of favorites, especially to keep in the car and listen to. It is a variety of well known compilations. Although not encompassing, it is perfect as a review for driving, relaxing, and enjoyment. Plus, the price is right!

Like Floating On A Cloud.......2006-09-20

My first real appreciation of this sound was from watching the film "Slaughterhouse Five" in the theater, back in the '70s. That soundtrack was just a taste of what you get with this recording. My family pops this CD in the car stereo on long trips, and glide down the highway to some original smooth grooves. Helps the miles pass swiftly. Music for the soul.

Bach.......2006-08-27

Surely you don't need me to review the guy. You know who he is, you've heard his music, and I hope you own some. So let me turn the podium over to a cat named Picasso, and you can read into that whatever you wish. She's in a chair, near the CD player. She has entered the room specifically for the music. Her eyes are squinted, almost but not quite shut, little face concentrating on just how contented those sounds make her feel. Nobody can say why they move her so, any more than we can say why they move us so. If we knew the answer to that one, we'd copy the guy. But anyway, she loves the music, and don't you dare make a sound such as squeaking your computer chair. If you do, her golden orbs will open, fix upon your face, and shame you. Yes they will. But if you are quiet long enough, you can watch a little calico sleep, with the very same sweet kitten face that drew you to her five years ago. Bach is gooooood.

Good CD, especially for novices.......2005-10-12

I was looking for a recommended Bach CD - certain music by a certain orchestra - and stumbled on this. It is an excellent choice for a new library. I think when there was more than one movement to a piece, it would have made more sense to go ahead and keep the movements together instead of separating them, but a novice listener would not notice. A great way to become exposed to a great composer.

Average customer rating:

John Rutter Collection
Typically gorgeous Rutter
Wonderful!
To sample Rutter's best music, this is the one.
The Best

John Rutter Collection
Rutter , Cambridge Singers , and London Sinfonia
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

The John Rutter Christmas Album
Requiem & Magnificat/Rutter, Cambridge Singers
Be Thou My Vision
Distant Land: The Orchestra Collection
Gloria: The Sacred Music of John Rutter

ASIN: B00006LIEZ
Release Date: 2002-11-12

Tracks:

For The Beauty Of The Earth
The Lord Is My Shepherd
All Things Bright And Beautiful
Shepherd's Pipe Carol
The Lord Bless You And Keep You
Open Thou Mine Eyes
My True Love Hath My Heart (From Birthday Madrigals)
Esurientes (From Magnificat)
Gloria Patri (From Magnificat)
Out Of The Deep (From Requiem)
Pie Jesu (From Requiem)
What Sweeter Music
A Choral Fanfare
A Prayer Of St. Patrick
O Be Joyful In The Lord
Behold, The Tabernacle Of God
O Praise The Lord Of Heaven
A Gaelic Blessing
Angel's Carol
Matthew, Mark, Luke And John (From Five Childhood Lyrics)
Sing A Song Of Sixpence (From Five Childhood Lyrics)
Go Forth Into The World In Peace

Customer Reviews:

John Rutter Collection.......2007-02-19

This CD is one of several that features Rutter directing his own choir. It has a good cross section of the John Rutter compositions, and is a good starting place for someone who has not heard Rutter's music before. I think you will be "hooked" if you really love choral music.

Typically gorgeous Rutter.......2005-12-20

I love John Rutter's music. Especially the "For the Beauty of the Earth" that is on this CD. Rutter is not the most inventive or varied composer of modern music, but if you have a taste for traditional choral writing with some angelic children's chorus singing, then you will probably share my enjoyment of Rutter's writing. Unfortunately I cannot give this CD 5 stars when it seems there is a drum set tapping annoyingly away on several of the songs. I do not understand this at all and am bothered by it every time I listen to those songs. It's a shame, because otherwise I love the music, and think it is lushly written, and simply but beautifully performed. I would highly suggest listening to sample track 3 before purchasing -- you can hear what sounds like a ride-cymbal right at the very end of the sample. This sound occurs in several of the songs on this recording.

Wonderful!.......2005-12-03

I am a huge John Rutter fan. The lilting melodies, the poignant lyrics and the lush orchestrations make his music not only accessable but also uplifting. This compilation, although drawing from many other previous recordings, is a great composite of his wirk. The sound is exquisite. Even if you own other recordings of this music, this is worthwhile.

To sample Rutter's best music, this is the one........2005-06-30

I purchased this CD as an introduction to the music of John Rutter and went on to purchase many more of his compositions. Still, this remains my favorite collection. It is choral music at its absolute finest. Far from "just church music", this CD has songs of faith, a few Christmas carols, a Celtic song for lovers, and even a child's tune or two. While most of the pieces are peaceful, warm, and thought-provoking, a few are up-tempo and lively. In my opinion, it is a perfectly balanced collection in which one song flows beautifully into the next with no sense of a jarring change of pace. If you have any interest in choral music, begin with the best...John Rutter... and this superb arrangement. Highly recommended.

The Best.......2005-04-29

The John Rutter Collection in my opinion is one of the finest and most perfect works I've ever heard. The Cambridge Singers demonstrates the best vocal discipline and style of any vocal group in the world.

Sidney Vaught

Requiem & Magnificat/Rutter, Cambridge Singers

Average customer rating:

How can you go wrong with Rutter?
Sublime!
Cambridge Singers have never been better!
Rutter Requiem, Magnificat
Competent, pleasant, but unaffecting

Requiem & Magnificat/Rutter, Cambridge Singers

Manufacturer: Collegium
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Faure: Requiem and other choral music
Be Thou My Vision

ASIN: B00000DI06
Release Date: 2000-02-29

Tracks:

1. Requiem Aeternam
2. Out Of The Deep
3. Pie Jesu
4. Sanctus
5. Agnus Dei
6. The Lord Is My Sheperd
7. Lux Aeterna
1. Magnificat Anima Mea
2. Of A Rose, A Lovely Rose
3. Quia Fecit Mihi Magna
4. Et Misericordia
5. Fecit Potentiam
6. Esurientes
7. Gloria Patri

Amazon.com

Two of John Rutter's most popular large-scale choral works are paired in this bargain-priced CD. Requiem, his first composition written without being commissioned, is a convincing affirmation of Christian doctrine on death and eternal life. It is also a substantial and sincere work that strives to be widely appealing while preserving a spiritual context centered on themes of light and consolation. Highlights include "Out of the Deep," its modal tune and harmonies giving it the flavor of a spiritual, and the wonderfully gentle and restful 23rd Psalm. Rutter personalizes his Requiem by adding movements not traditionally part of the Requiem Mass--passages from the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, for instance--and this proves to be an effective strategy. Rutter's own, first-class Cambridge Singers are superb, as usual, and soloist Caroline Ashton steals the show with her heavenly Pie Jesu. The Magnificat shows Rutter at his most engaging, thoughtful, and adept. His usual canny sense of tunefulness and rhythmic rightness, flavored with splashes of pop harmony, accomplish his purpose in the Magnificat: to depict Mary's prayer as a celebratory occasion rather than a somber one. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

How can you go wrong with Rutter?.......2007-02-10

I have enjoyed all aspects of this recording; Rutter's compositions are always interesting and a wonderful blend of classic and melodid pop traditions, the choir and orchestra are prepared beautifully and the engineering of the recording is great. It is wonderful opportunity to study Rutter's work with maestro Rutter as conductor, imagine if we had this opportunity with the works of Mozart or Beethoven.

Sublime!.......2007-01-05

I bought this to learn the requiem for a choral performance. It is hauntingly beautiful and I have listened to it again and again.

Cambridge Singers have never been better!.......2006-12-06

I have listened to many other composers' requiems, but this one beats them all. It is a little unusual to have both English and Latin liturgy in a requiem, but it is entirely appropriate in this case, as it contains the Mass, psalms, and personal prayers to Christ--I thoroughly enjoyed some of the burial service text sang along with the requiem mass. The Cambridge singers are sublime, and Caroline Ashton's voice (soprano) is perfect. Liner notes containing lyrics and translations are included if you do not speak Latin. The "Sanctus" is very unique and much faster-paced than I am used to, with high voices starting and baritones/tenors echoing. If I have anything to dislike about Rutter's requiem, it is the fact that there is no "Dies Irae" text at all; they seem to have been replaced by psalms. However, the excellence of the singers and the great choice of the texts makes up for it very well.

Rutter Requiem, Magnificat.......2006-11-07

This is a quality recording with great performances of both works. These are two choral works which have stood the test of time by a great choral arranger and conductor who truly knows voices and choirs.
The recording is clean and authentic, not "studio contrived."

Competent, pleasant, but unaffecting.......2006-06-06

Sounds a lot like Enya, believe it or not; very well performed, euphonious, but bland.

Gabrieli · Monteverdi · Vivaldi - Venetian Church Music / Taverner Consort, Choir & Players · Andrew Parrott

Average customer rating:

a voice teacher and early music fan
A "Regular People" Review
exceptional tone quality
The Fabulous Andrew Parrott
Fabulous introduction to Venetian sacred music

Gabrieli · Monteverdi · Vivaldi - Venetian Church Music / Taverner Consort, Choir & Players · Andrew Parrott
Giovanni Gabrieli , Claudio Monteverdi , Antonio Vivaldi , Dario Castello , Giovanni Legrenzi , Antonio Lotti , Alessandro Grandi , Andrew Parrott , and Choir & Players Taverner Consort
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005IA23
Release Date: 2001-10-09

Tracks:

Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Dulcis Jesu
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Son Pian E Forte
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Jubilate Deo
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Son a 14
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: O Jesu Mi Dulcissime
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Canzon
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Hic Est Filius Dei
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Son Con Tre Violini
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Son a 22
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Miserere Me Deus - Gloria Patri
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Canzon In Echo Duodecimi Toni
Canzonas, Sonatas And Motets: Audite Principes

Tracks:

Intonationi D'Organo, 1593: Intonatione Del Nono Tono
Sacrae Symphoniae II, 1965: In Ecclesiis
Motetti In Lode D'Iddio Nostro Signore, 1620: Adoramus Te, Christe
Ghirlanda Sacra, 1625: O Quam Tu Pulchra Es
Sonate Concertate, Libro Secondo, 1629: Sonata Seconda
Arie De Diversi, 1624: Exulta, Filia Sion
Sonate, Libro Terzo, Op.8, 1663: Son Da Chiesa A 3, Op.8 No.8 'La Bevilaqua'
Crucifixus
Clarae Stellae, Scintillate, RV625: Aria: Clarae Stellae, Scintillate: Aria: Clarae Stellae, Scintillate
Clarae Stellae, Scintillate, RV625: Aria: Clarae Stellae, Scintillate: Recitativo: Coeli Repleti Iam Novo Splendore
Clarae Stellae, Scintillate, RV625: Aria: Clarae Stellae, Scintillate: Aria: Nunc Jubilare
Clarae Stellae, Scintillate, RV625: Aria: Clarae Stellae, Scintillate: Alleluia
Crucifixus
Ghirlanda Sacra, 1625: Currite Populi
Montetti In Lode D'Iddio Nostro Signore, 1620: Christe, Adoramus Te
Canzoni Et Sonate, 1615: Canzon VIII
Berlin, Deutsche Staatsbibliothek, MS Lynar A1: Fuga Del Nono Tono
Sacrae Symphoniae II, 1615: Magnificat

Customer Reviews:

a voice teacher and early music fan.......2007-04-01

Polychoral music-music written for several groups of musicians separated spatially-was not peculiar to Venice, but it was associated with the Basilica of San Marco and ceremonial events in the Venetian cultural calendar.
Chordal writing reached its peak in the polychoral works of Giovanni Gabrieli(1555-1612), the principal church composer in Italy of the progressive development. He not only increased the number of choirs to four and the total pitch range to over four octaves, but also juxtaposed passages of conventional rhythm with strikingly jagged suncopated motifs. These dramatic contrasts were further intensified by occasional chromatic harmony and unusual dissonances and, more significantly, by the use of instruments that alternated or combined with the voices. All of these traits are well demonstrated in the music on disc 1 of this set. His music is wonderfully exciting!!!!
Upon his death, Monteverdi succeeded him, and took his own direction musically; much different from Gabrielli. It is not just that their styles are different, but the instrumentation is much different as you will hear upon listening to disc 2.
Two subsequent directors of music represented here are Legrenzi and Lotti, both primarily opera composers.
Vivaldi had no direct connection with the basililca; he worked at the 'Pieta', and his motet 'Clarae stellae' was written for a 'Signora Gertruda, a singer who sang at the Pieta. This is one of the most attractive pieces on disc 2, and is often recorded by countertenors (altos)but on this disc is sung by Randi Stene, mezzo soprano, who sings it quite well. Andreas Scholl has recorded this, and I do personally prefer Scholl's countertenor quality for this particular piece.
Monteverdi's 'Currite populi' is another favorite of mine, and its excellently performed herein.
There is just so much to enjoy on these two discs for the early music lover. The instruments are very skillfully played and the styles of the various composers are adhered to all the time. The balance between the voices and the instruments is perfect as one might expect from Parrott's performers. The soloists: Emily van Evera (soprano), Randi Stene (mezzo) and Jeffrey Thomas (tenor) all sang with the correct emotional investment. Certainly worth listening to!!!!

A "Regular People" Review .......2007-01-09

Venetian Church Music?....never thought I'd be listening to that, anyway this music is for those who seek it out, If thats not you this probably won't interest you (but you can try some renaissance/baroque experimental listening to see if you'd like it!). If your into this though, this is a good deal.

exceptional tone quality.......2006-03-28

When I purchased this recording, I had not yet had the pleasure of owning an Andrew Parrott/Taverner Consort recording. I was so impressed! Andrew really excercises an understanding of this genre, an understanding that I haven't often seen. In particular I was quite pleased with this rendintion of Gabrieli's "In ecclesiis" (although the Bass, I don't know his name, is too lacking in volume). Other than that, I just adore this CD set. I also recommend Andrew Parrot for anything predating Bach (*not including Bach!). There is a 5 CD of particular interest and quality called "From Monteverdi to Vivaldi" by this same ensemble that you might consider purchasing instead of this set (almost exact same price, and one of the CDs- the better of the two in this set- is included in the 5CD set).

The Fabulous Andrew Parrott.......2005-08-04

Who else but Andrew Parrott?! The fabulous adventurer in the field of early music, Parrott has time and again unearthed unknown masterpieces, shedding light on their original luster through a keen sense of the historical settings, employment of the proper historic instruments & period vocal style, and his own inspired musicianship. Throughout the 2nd half of the 20th century music lovers like me knew the works of Gabrieli through the appropriations by well-meaning ensembles of modern brass instruments: Chicago Symphony Brass, Canadian Brass, etc. Parrott has been the first to perform and record many of these works with early 17th century instruments, providing a restored sonic image for the 21st century connoisseur. Bravo! Encore, please!

Fabulous introduction to Venetian sacred music.......2003-07-24

This fantastic collection of music is probably one of the best introductions to Venetian Baroque (early to late) on offer.
The first disc, devoted to Giovanni Gabrieli, is nothing short of amazing. Cornetts, Baroque violins, tenor cornetts, sackbuts and multiple organs (try the first track - the huge Dulcis Jesu patris imago à 20 voci) can be heard on this disc and they are all played with great panache, style and, most importantly, expression. I bought both of these discs when they were issued on EMI Reflex over ten years ago - and I have never stopped loving these magnificent and colourful performances.

If you want only one recording of Giovanni Gabrieli's music - then this might be the one for you! The other might be the Gabrieli Consort's 'A Venetian Coronation'? (if you want two Gabrieli recordings in your collection!)

The second disc contains a very tasty selection of music by Legrenzi, Monteverdi, Vivaldi and, again, Giovanni Gabrieli (the star of the show!).

Tracks:

Spem In Alium
Sancte Deus
Salvator Mundi, Salva Nos I
Salvator Mundi, Salva Nos II
Gaude Gloriosa
Miserere Nostri
Loquebantur Variis Linguis
If Ye Love Me
Hear The Voice And Prayer
A New Commandment
O Lord, Give Thy Holy Spirit
Purge Me, O Lord
Verily, Verily I Say Unto You
Remember Not, O Lord God
Tunes For Archbishop Parker's Psalter
O Lord, In Thee Is All My Trust
Christ Rising Again
Blessed Are Those That Be Undefiled

Tracks:

Lamentations Of Jeremiah I
Lamentations Of Jeremiah II
Absterge Domine
O Sacrum Convivium
In Manus Tuas
Salve Intemerata
Magnificat For 4 Voices
Ave, Dei Patris Filia

Customer Reviews:

Impeccable English Style.......2007-07-13

If you favor blend, balance, pitch, and all the other parameters of the English traditional choral style, you'll be very impressed with the Tallis Scholars' refined presentation. the music speaks for itself.

The Tallis Scholars do their namesake proud.......2006-07-27

In the last couple of years, the Tallis Scholars have been compiling their sizeable recording output into attractive two-disc editions. Here, they've collected a large number of their interpretations of their namesake, Thomas Tallis. Tallis (c. 1505-1585) is, of course, one of the giants of Renaissance music, and he was certainly the greatest English composer of liturgical music between John Dunstable and William Byrd. I personally consider him the second-greatest Renaissance composer after Palestrina, but I'm not dogmatic about it. I love the music of Josquin, Victoria, and Byrd almost as much. Let's just say that, if you're interested in immersing yourself in the work of a single Renaissance composer, you can't do much better than Tallis.

These recordings were made 1985-1998, and they all sound great. Included in this collection are most of Tallis best and best-known works: the two Lamentations of Jeremiah, O Sacrum Convivium, Gaude Gloriosa, Tunes for Archbishop Parker's Psalter (which contains the theme that inspired Ralph Vaughan Williams' famous Fantasia), and the incredible 40-part motet Spem In Alium (which is one of the supreme masterpieces of the 16th century). Unfortunately, there are some notable absences, such as the Tallis Scholars' own recording of O Nata Lux. The Mass for 4 Voices, certainly one of Tallis' major works, is also nowhere to be found. Of course, there's only so much music that will fit onto two CDs, but it's still a shame that they couldn't fit at least one of Tallis' masses. Nevertheless, the music that's here is beautiful and powerful.

The Tallis Scholars themselves need no introduction. They're one of the most famous groups specializing in Renaissance music. It needs to be said, however, that if you're looking for "authentic" recordings (that is, recordings that approximate what the music originally sounded like in the 16th century), you might want to look elsewhere. The Tallis Scholars use female singers instead of boys or (ahem!) castrati (though it's doubtful that Tallis would have used or written for castrati himself). And one could complain that these recordings use too many singers for some of the smaller pieces or that the sopranos overpower some of the larger ones (like Spem In Alium). I'm neither an enthusiast nor an opponent of the authentic-performance movement; since we're listening to recorded music anyway, these issues strike me as moot. The Tallis Scholars are experienced and accomplished singers, and they achieve their primary goal: to provide superlative-sounding recordings of important early choral compositions. If you're looking for a fine compilation of Tallis' music or an excellent introduction to Renaissance music, this is it.

Average customer rating:

IMPRESSED
St. Paul's Cathedral ImpressiveCollection of Anglican Hymns
Excellent Cathedral Organ & Choral
LACK OF DICTION?!!!
Marred by lack of diction

The Music of St. Paul's Cathedral

Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Praise to the Lord - Hymns From St. Paul's Cathedral
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Abide With Me

ASIN: B00004U2KC
Release Date: 2000-08-15

Customer Reviews:

IMPRESSED.......2007-05-21

AS A FIRST TIME BUYER AT AMAZON,I AM IMPRESSED AT THE QUALITY OF CD AND TIME OF SERVICE

St. Paul's Cathedral ImpressiveCollection of Anglican Hymns.......2007-01-24

St. Paul's Cathdral is the second largest cathedral church in the basilican style, exceeded only by St. Peter's Rome. New York City's St. John the Divine is larger than St. Paul's, but with decidely gothic elements. All three cathedrals have fine choirs, but St. Paul's and St. John's continue the noble and unique sound of boys and men in the English tradition. St. Paul's great organ is one of the world's finest, with a decay of seven seconds. The great hymns are all here, conducted by John Scott, only recently appointed organist of St. Thomas' Church, Fifth Avenue, New York City. This is a recording will a be prized addition to your library of choral music. You will not be disappointed.

Excellent Cathedral Organ & Choral .......2006-02-24

This selection of recordings by The Choir of St. Paul's Cathedral contains pieces representative of traditional Anglican musical liturgy. The technical aspects of this production on compact disk seem to be outstanding, but beware that the original recordings were in some cases less than stellar. Another reviewer points out that on some tracks the lyrics sung by the choir are overwhelmed by the superb organ playing, which no doubt occurred due to inadequate microphone placement during the recording sessions. That said, I nevertheless rate this presentation of the St. Paul's Choir highly. It provides a mixture of musical types. In addition to the choir, the CD presents the work of four organists, including a marvelous organ solo, as well as several pieces sung a cappella by the choir and its boy treble soloists. I especially recommend this choir's rendetion of Gregorio Allegri's "Miserere," which features the voices of two boy trebles, a boy alto and a bass, which yeilds a mesmerizing experience. Unless one is acquiring full sets of the St. Paul's Choir's music, this compact disk should delight anyone interested in traditional cathedral organ and choral music.

LACK OF DICTION?!!!.......2003-11-12

Obviously the individual who wrote the review including the "marred by lack of diction" remark is not too familiar with the traditional boychoir sound. I am moved to sickness that they were so openly compared with the sound of the all-too-familiar MTC. THOSE WERE ADULTS!!! These are boys! Boys cannot give the kind of sound of the MTC because their voices are not developed enough. The greatest hope a boychoir has of wowing audiences is in their contrast in dynamics. They model this beautiffully in their acapella pieces. In their accompanied pieces, I feel they hold their own above the (sometimes blearing) organ.
Know the genre a little better before you slander a great performance.

Marred by lack of diction.......2003-04-22

The singing is beautiful, melodious and full of harmony. The organ would make Bach proud.

But the lyrics do not stand out. In fact, they are obliterated by the surrounding melodies.

I hate to do this, but I am comparing with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. These little boys would learn from them.

Tracks:

Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 In G Major, S. 1049 (Allegro)
Gabrieli: In Decachordo Psalterio
Chorale Prelude: Wachet Auf (Sleepers, Awake), S. 645
Violin Concerto No. 2 In E Major, S. 1042 (Allegro)
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor, S. 565
Mass In B Minor, S. 232 (Et Resurrexit) (And He Has Risen)
Two-Part Invention No. 14 In B Flat Major, S. 785
Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 In D Major, S. 1050 (Allegro)
Cantata No. 57, S. 57 (1740): Selig Ist Der Mann (Blessed Is The Man)
Italian Concerto In F Major, S. 971 (Allegro)
Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 In F Major, S. 1047 (Allegro Assai)
Well-Tempered Clavier Book 1, S. 846 (Prelude No. 1 In C Major)
St. Matthew Passion, S. 244 (Chorale)
Concerto For Two Violins In D Minor, S. 1043 (Allegro)
Passacaglia And Fugue In C Minor, S. 582
St. Matthew Passion, S. 244 (Chorale)
Cantata No. 211 (1732) 'Coffee Cantata' S. 211 (Baritone Solo)
St. John Passion, S. 245 (I Follow Thee Also, My Saviour, With Gladness)
Magnificat In D Major, S. 243 (Chorus)
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G Major, S. 1048, (Allegro - Complete)
Vivace; Largo Ma Non Tanto: Allegro - Dieter Vorholz
Allegro - Dieter Vorholz
Adagio; Allegro Assai - Dieter Vorholz

Customer Reviews:

Excellent!.......2006-07-01

We are using this series of CDs in our homeschool music program - they are fantastic! We especially love this one about Bach - what an awesome man! The story of his life is told in a way that is very interesting and holds the children's attention while also using various pieces of his music in the narration. It is done VERY well! My children are gaining a tremendous amount of knowlege and appreciation for music through this CD and so are my husband and I!

Average customer rating:

Arvo Part Inspirational
Transcendental Purity meets Slavonic Psalms Mastery

Arvo Pärt: Da pacem
Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir , and Paul Hillier
Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

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

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Peter Lieberson: Neruda Songs
Horizons - Leif Ove Andsnes
Arvo Pärt Sanctuary
John Adams: The Dharma at Big Sur/My Father Knew Charles Ives
Arvo Part: Te Deum / Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir

ASIN: B000H0MGUU
Release Date: 2006-09-12

Tracks:

Da Pacem Domine
Salve Regina
Psalm 117
Psalm 131
Magnificat
An Den Wassern Zu Babel
Dopo La Vittoria
Nunc Dimittis
Littlemore Tractus

Amazon.com

This stunning new collection of short pieces by Arvo Pärt covers a 30 year period of the composer's output. The listener will be both comfortable with and surprised by the changes he's made: his essential style/approach and the beauty of the music remain constant, but Pärt is no whispering new-age poster boy. Sometimes the sound just washes over the listener; more often the small complexities or intensities are the hooks by which we are captivated. "Da pacem Domine" is a prayer for peace. Its different tonal hues thrill as much as they soothe. There's much of Renaissance music in his work--under the layers of sound there is a solid, far more simple core. The Two Slavonic Psalms have a Russian feel unlike most of Pärt's other works, and the first is fleet and perky. The strange "Dopo la vittoria" tells the story of St Ambrose and St Augustine singing the Te Deum composed for his defeat over the Arians; the story part is presented in an odd, chatty manner, but the prayer itself is exclaimed with great dignity. The performances, by Paul Hillier, the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, and organist Christopher Bowers-Broadbent, do Pärt's ethereal, still, but ever-moving music absolute justice, and the recorded sound is crystal clear. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Arvo Part Inspirational.......2007-05-13

Arvo Part is one of my favorite composers of all time. This cd is absolutely phenomenal and brings with it a deep feeling of reverence, devotion and peace. This is by far one of the most amazing cds i have ever purchased. He is an true inspiration.

peace.
jacob salzer

Transcendental Purity meets Slavonic Psalms Mastery.......2006-11-23

Many things have been said about Arvo Part. Nevertheless, I will venture some words about this CD. Part's compositions evoke a meditative, deeply thoughtful atmosphere. When I played this CD for the first time, my visceral reaction was to close my eyes and let the sound "heal" those niches in my soul that Part has boldly decided to explore in himself.

Not for the faint of heart, this living composer's work will challenge your views of sacred and traditional musics. Part's personal approach to creating music can almost make you blush in sorrowful, joyous, melancholic self-awareness. To say this music "speaks" is a trivial understatement.

While Part is well into his seventies, his vitality and vigour musically can be compared to the controlled power of a wise giant. No signs of vanity are in his music. This is music written from a place of simple humbleness. That may be the single reason why this music is so glorious.

The "Estonian Master" maintains his well-established stride in this most satisfying production.

Kudos to Harmoni Mundi for the SACD/CD format. The sound is open and full.

Highly recommended and perfect as a Christmas gift for the music enthusiast.

Average customer rating:

Old World Sound to Calm the Senses
NOT OF THIS WORLD
Spare brilliance
Magnificat: Magnificent!
If you only buy one Pärt CD, buy this one

Arvo Pärt Sanctuary

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

Alina - Arvo Part
Lamentate
Silencio
Tabula Rasa
Arvo Pärt: De Profundis

ASIN: B000002SRI
Release Date: 1998-02-17

Tracks:

Cantus In Memory Of Benjamin Britten
Summa
The Beatitudes - Stephen Cleobury
Fratres (Version VI) - The London Philharmonic
Festina Lente
Magnificat - Stephen Cleobury
De profundis - Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tabula Rasa: Silentium

Customer Reviews:

Old World Sound to Calm the Senses.......2007-01-03

Beautiful, pure, and often heavenly are my select words to describe this CD.

NOT OF THIS WORLD.......2004-08-31

Tabula Rasa: Silentium : This music is not of this world. I worship/pray in silence while driving with this music on with a palm facing the windshield. The haunting, surreal background...the two main violins mournfully cries out aloud...yet so beautiful...my heart cries with them.

Spare brilliance.......2003-01-08

Spending a lot of words describing Pärt's music seems like defeating the purpose. It is transcendent, haunting, solemn, quiet, and all the other things the other reviewers say. I view it, stylistically, as somewhere between the minimalism of Glass et al, and the ambient textures of Steve Roach -- if that description makes any sense. I find myself a little more at home with his instrumental pieces than his choral work, but that's just personal preference.

This is a good first Pärt CD -- then you can move on to other works, especially his Te Deum.

Magnificat: Magnificent!.......2002-08-05

I realize the title of this review is pretty silly, but I had to think of something.
I have always enjoyed classical music, but not nearly as much as other genres... that is until a friend of mine gave me SANCTUARY. I listen to it all the time now. The genius of Arvo Part's music is that although it is quite somber, it is very beautiful. I think that if you don't like classical music now, you will once you listen to Arvo Part. My favourite piece is Magnificat, hence the title.

If you only buy one Pärt CD, buy this one.......2002-02-21

This exquisite recording is an "Arvo Pärt Sampler" that provides a great introduction to this wonderful composer. I bought it because it contains his two best-known short choral works, the Beatitudes and the Magnificat. The performances by the choir of King's College Cambridge are transcendent, as usual; it is very difficult to achieve the serenity of sound needed to communicate Pärt's music, but King's is perfect for it. The instrumental works are samples of Pärt's greatest hits including an especially heart-rending performance of the Cantus in Memory of Benjamin Britten.

Tracks:

Te Deum
Silouans Song
Magnificat
Berliner Messe: Kyrie
Berliner Messe: Gloria
Berliner Messe: Erster Alleluiavers
Berliner Messe: Zweiter Alleluiavers
Berliner Messe: Veni Sancte Spiritus
Berliner Messe: Credo
Berliner Messe: Sanctus
Berliner Messe: Agnus Dei

Amazon.com essential recording

Though these pieces are typical of Pärt's style, they seem less bleak than those on previous discs. The Te Deum, while often in a minor tonality and sometimes imposing, has a suitable extroverted quality; the Magnificat, with its hushed intensity, does seem solemn, but its cadences are striking, typically resolving from a tonal chord to a shimmering major-second dissonance. The Berliner Messe includes not only the Mass ordinary, but also three propers for Pentecost, and displays a range of moods from nervous penitence in the Kyrie to lively good cheer in the Credo to serenity in the Agnus Dei. Best is the sequence "Veni sancte spiritus," sung largely in unison to a haunting 6/8 melody. Tiny Estonia, Pärt's homeland, has provided him with some impressive interpreters. --Matthew Westphal

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful, Soulful, Choral Work.......2007-01-31

Although my main genre of music is derived from the 60's, 70's rock and pop music, I also spent many Sundays attending church and listening to the work of the choir. I would say that I have a strong spiritual side, and so Arvo Part touched this part of my heart. I heard it on NPR when they were asking listeners for the albums that were essential in their collection. The person commented that this music centered them. I listened to the entire album on the radio on a Saturday night, even though I was about to head out to listen to other types of music.

The music is beautiful, soulful, and spiritual. The choral harmonies sound something like Thomas Tallis, but has instrumentation supporting the choir. The music is very slow and uses "silence" as part of the work. So be prepared to be put into a meditative state - one where peace is felt. A truly awesome piece of music.

Don't come to this music empty..........2006-06-10

My opinion of much of the spiritual minimalist music that may be criticised as dull, boring, incomplete, or whatever adjective you care to insert, is that unlike the "great" music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, etc, this spiritual music requires you to bring something to it to have meaning. Anyone can listen to Mozart and get pretty much the same thing from it because it's perfect and complete. There's nothing more to add. And that's why I can't stand it. Like vanilla ice cream, the great German masters serve as nothing but a center for music to expand away from.

However, where one can put on Silouans Song and hear a dull film score, others can meditate on the music and be moved beyond words. The "inaudible" Berliner Messe concludes with the Agnus Dei. I will never escape the memory of listening to the piece at night under the stars next to a high alpine lake in California's Sierra Nevada Mountains. The Agnus Dei section is as cold as ice, as bare as outer space, and with the Dona Nobis Pacem it melts, while keeping the melodic line of the first section, into the most comforting, heart-warming music. Atheist that I am, I can't help but feel that I'm not alone. Listen to it under the stars in the wilderness.

The major work, the Te Deum, is incredible in its own way. You cannot hear the music begin, but gradually become aware of what I assume is a piano string being played with a mallet. The sound reappears throughout the work, and at the huge climax you feel almost as if airplanes are taking off in the church. The ending, repeated statements of "Sanctus", fades out in almost as beautiful a manner as the Agnus Dei of the mass ends. Almost, but not quite.

There isn't another living composer like Part, and this is one of the finest discs of his music.

Gentle introduction to Pärt; terrible recording.......2006-02-14

If you've not previously listened to Pärt's music, this is a reasonable place to start. I prefer Tabula Rasa, however, and suggest that as a better alternative.

Unfortunately, the recording quality of the title work is atrocious. At several points, the vocals swell to aching levels...and just then, the sound is reduced to ear tearing distortion. No, folks, that isn't the power of an omnipotent, imaginary friend reaching through your stereo; that's really bad level setting.

Here's hoping ECM sees fit to make a proper recording of this one.

My first Part of all Part's.......2006-02-08

I have no idea why I first selected this CD while browsing in a store but I have since used Amazon to order most of Arvo Part's recordings. I am not sure how you would select a favorite -- I would certainly not agree that this is among the worst! I would say it still ranks as one of my favorites. I also agree this music is not for the car! This is certainly for when you want to be contemplative. If you feel rushed and overwhelmed by contemporary life, put on a Part CD and close your eyes and stress will melt away. This music is a ticket to timelessness and peace. Who would have thought a modern composer could have found a way to out do the Medievals this way? Progress has not stopped nor has it ignored our spiritual side.

These works bring to mind the terrifying beauty of God Himself - truly awesome!.......2005-12-01

Arvo Part exhibits absolute mastery of sacred vocal writing. It is the culmination of a millenium of sacred music; as though Tallis, Byrd, Bach, Mozart, Brahms, Faure and every other writer of sacred music had simply cleared the way for this man. Part assimilates you into his music in the opening passages and holds you in his powerful grip until after the last phrases have been uttered.

The glory is not given only to the voices, either. These works are also scored for strings and some of the most beautiful passages are given over to them. Dissonance is used throughout in all voices with terrifying beauty and brings to mind what it may be like to behold the presence of God Himself. There are many stunning climaxes that resolve the discord throughout the work - everyone infinitely satisfying and never dull. These are truly works of awe-inspiring proportions, particulary the Te Deum and this does them justice. It will lift your mind and heart and never cease to amaze.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

Music Review

Pshychic [Import]

Dvorak: Quartets No2; Trio in G Major "Unfinished"

Favorite Overtures, Vol. 2

Am I That Easy to Forget/Lovin' Lies

Embrace [Extra tracks] [Import]

Favorite Hymns

Fledermaus [Import]

Forever Blue

Feel the Sound of Harvey Mandel [Import]

Dr. Byrds & Mr. Hyde [Import] [Original recording remastered]

Elmer Gibson Trio Live [Live]

Dueto Criollo: Cantan Duran Y Rufino [Import]

Expansion Team [Clean]

What This Means for Me

From Ton to Tom: A Tribute to Tom Jobim