Christmas Choral Classics

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
The singers in the Crouch End Festival Chorus have dipped their vocal chords into both core classical works (Benjamin Britten, Philip Glass) and more pop-oriented projects (Cinema Choral Classics). For better and worse, this disc of Christmas music falls into the latter camp. Here, on 20 tracks, the ensemble, joined by the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, performs some of the most popular carols of all time--"It's the Most Wonderful Time of Year," "Winter Wonderland," "Jingle Bells," and more. Conductor Paul Bateman's arrangements don't allow for any choral solos, so each of these works is given largely the same treatment. You get light orchestrations, fine singing, and nice sound to boot. There are technically better CDs of holiday music with better singing and more interesting arrangements, but few are this delightful or infectious. --Jason Verlinde

Tracks:

Far Away
Sanctus
Ave Maria
Going Home
Be Still My Soul
Salva Me
I Vow To Thee, My Country
Voca Me
Always With You
We Are The Lost
I Am The Day
Recordare
Abide With Me
Silent Night
Going Home

Amazon.com

There's very little to say about this recording of ethereally beautifully singing by the 24 young English lads who make up the group Libera. Enormously popular in Asia, the group is part of a parish choir in South London that has been around for many years, with of course, changes in personnel as voices change. There are a couple of pieces here by well-known composers--Pachelbel, Sibelius, Holst, Dvorak--but to their music have been added words and, of course, it's all been "arranged." Texts, translations from Latin, and arrangements as well as original music are by Robert Prizeman, the choir's director, and some of the numbers are accompanied by quiet synthesizers, organ, and/or drums. There is something new-age about this project and some might find the effect syrupy, while others might long for the "real" thing, that is, boys with this talent singing some Renaissance or later music that is not designed simply as balm for the ears. But for what it is--a perfectly pitched choir with some outstanding solo work as well, singing easy-to-listen to short numbers--this is just lovely. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

No choral collection can be considered complete if this CD isn't there...!!.......2007-07-20

The "marksmanship" involved in the creation of this CD is spot on target. You do not have a complete collection of choral music until you own this CD. Flawless, impeccable, perfect, precise, exacting...the best of the best. Buy it. This is music creation at the very apex of recording technology that captures these young voices in a stunningly clear and beautiful manner. The robust orchestration and organ are sensibly down played to allow these intricate harmonies to come through. This is pure genius....brilliant....EMI should be proud of this recording as one of the F1 Ferraris in their classical music catalog... BRAVO!! A 5 minute standing ovation!!!... A job well done!!!

Absolutely Pleased!.......2007-07-10

I just recently loss my brother-in-law who passed away on Memorial day of this year and this CD has been able to comfort my family and I through this terrible loss. I absolutely recommend that anyone who is needing spiritual uplifting should definitely buy this CD. I consider this the best comfort CD ever!

It takes me away .......2007-06-28

I heard this album playing as I browsed in a Barnes and Noble, it was enchanting. I had to know what it was. The sales person in the music section filled me in and we listened to it for hours while we drove. Their voices are heavenly. I am transported to a place of peace and calm.

Censoring of Be Still My Soul.......2007-05-21

On the fifth track, Be Still My Soul, the arrangers reworked the original lyrics of Katharina A. von Schlegel and taken the third verse:

Be still, my soul:
when dearest friends depart,
And all is darkened
in the vale of tears,
Then shalt thou better know
His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe
thy sorrow and thy fears.
Be still, my soul:
thy Jesus can repay
From His own fullness
all He takes away.

And made it a combination of the third and second verse:

Be still, my soul:
when dearest friends depart,
And all is darkened
in the vale of tears,
Then shalt thou better know
His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe
thy sorrow and thy fears.
Be still, my soul,
the waves and winds
still know His voice
Who ruled them
while He dwelt below.

In other words, they have taken the name of Jesus out of the original lyrics. The verse doesn't even make sense now. I feel it is awful that the one who can soothe all our sorrow and thy fears, Jesus, was censored from this beautiful work.

A good choice for first time buyers of Libera.......2007-05-17

A lot of reviewers have complained that Angel Voices is mostly a compilation that takes a few songs from each previous Libera album and reworks it. I imagine it is somewhat like a greatest hits, or favorites album, only all the songs have been re-recorded by the current set of boys that makes up the group.
Personally, this album was our first exposure to the group. We enjoy its mellowness, and the soaring vocals and harmonies. I am not sure that we would buy many of their other albums since this one has a nice mix of songs that are included on the other CDs.
We have given this CD as a gift as well as having it ourselves and everyone we have shared it with has loved it.

A Christmas Celebration: Kathleen Battle

Average customer rating:

A Christmas Celebration: Kathleen Battle
One of the most beautiful Christmas albums
A Christmas Collection For The Ages
Kathleen Battle, My Madam Christmas
Pure Joy

A Christmas Celebration: Kathleen Battle
Kathleen Battle , traditional/various , Leonard Slatkin , and Orchestra of St. Luke's with New York Choral Artists & Harlem Boys' Choir
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

Battle, Kathleen | Divas | 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
Similar Items:

A Carnegie Hall Christmas Concert
Angels' Glory
Jessye Norman - Christmastide
The Best of Kathleen Battle
Kathleen Battle at Carnegie Hall

ASIN: B000002ROL
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

O Come All Ye Faithful
O Holy Night
Bring A Torch, Jeannette Isabelle
Fum, Fum, Fum!
Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming
Ave Maria
Gesu Bambino
Medley: I Saw Three Ships; The First Nowell; The Holly And The Ivy
Away In A Manger
Silent Night
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Mary's Cradle Song
Zither Carol
I Wonder As I Wander
Mary Had A Baby
Rise Up, Shepherd
What Child Is This?
Ave Maria
Finale and Reprise: Veni, Veni, Emmanuel; It Came Upon A Midnight Clear; O Little Town Of Bethlehem; Silent Night; O Come All Ye Faithful

Customer Reviews:

A Christmas Celebration: Kathleen Battle.......2007-01-19

what can i say about the best of the best? As always, Miss Battle makes me wonder how anyone else would dare to sing this music after her rendition. A beautiful CD

One of the most beautiful Christmas albums .......2005-11-22

I love Kathleen Battle's voice, and to get such a great collection of beautiful sacred music, it was like a dream come true. She sings many traditional carols like Holy Night, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night, which is possibly my favorite here, you may think you have heard this song so many times, but Kathleen's voice really shines in it. Her English diction is so incredible, you can understand every word, which is not something many opera singers can achieve. Her singing is always so natural and lovely. Many other songs are oustanding on this album, I love the two version of Ave Maria and the Italian song Gesu Bambino. If you are looking for a really beautiful collection of Christmas music, this album is a great choice.

A Christmas Collection For The Ages.......2005-11-13

If there is one performer I miss hearing on a regular basis, it is Kathleen Battle. Anytime I knew that she'd be in a Metropolitan Opera radio broadcast, I knew it would be a performance to remember and more often than not, I was correct. She has a light voice that reaches the upper reregisters with ease and has as a gorgeous sound. She not a regular at many opera houses these days, and in likelihood, if she still did perform on the world's opera stages, we'd be hearing critics say her voice was not what it once was, but thanks to her recorded legacy, her voice will, always have that youthful, energetic sound.

Overall I believe that Ms. Battle performs better in complete opera recordings than recital albums, but most of her recital recordings are of at least good quality and this Christmas collection is outstanding. She handles all of the works with apparent similar ease, but since the recording is so varied, this is a compliment to her skill as a performer. She begins and ends with "O Come All Ye Faithful" where she does a few vocal acrobatics but it's never overdone. Each time I think of what the bets part of the collection is, my mind changes. She brings her skills from the operatic stage in her renditions of "O Holy Night," "Gesu Bambino" (only Pavarotti sings this better, but it's a very close second), and "The Zither Carol" which sounds so much like something that could come from the mouths of Oscar from UN BALLO or Zurbinetta from ARIADNE AUF NAXOS, two of her signature roles. The music from the African American Spirituals tradition and American background are well done and the accompaniment of the Harlem Boys Choir, used to great advantage here adds so much.

With so many Christmas collections from the world of opera available, choosing one can be difficult, but this is one collection that has proven to be a joy for almost fifteen years and will continue to give holiday pleasure for years to come.

Kathleen Battle, My Madam Christmas.......2004-12-28

I probably have 50 Christmas albums. I love many of them. This is my favorite. Leaves me astounded and breathless every time I enjoy it.

Pure Joy.......2003-12-07

In a world where disturbing things are all too common, Christian scripture guides us to dwell on that which is lovely. Kathleen Battle's blessed voice is most certainly one of those lovely things.

I bought this CD in the early 1990's, and I am here to buy it again because I have worn out the original with scratches, etc. I only listen to it during the Christmas season, but I enjoy it enough to hear it all year.

The 'Christmas Celebration' CD should be enough to convince you to also purchase Kathleen's 'A Carnegie Hall Christmas Concert'. Ms. Battle's wonderful soprano voice is joined by that of the mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade, and the blending is more than memorable. There are a couple of songs which are on both CD's, but you'll want to hear both. In fact, the video of the PBS special is also available, and I recommend buying all three. You won't regret it.

Some of my favorite selections from 'Christmas Celebration' include 'Bring a Torch, Jeannette, Isabelle' and 'Fum, Fum, Fum', both of which are from a culture different from my own. I found such glimpses into unfamiliar favorites to enhance my own enjoyment of the Christmas season, as long as all of my traditional American favorites were included. They were. "I Wonder As I Wander" and "Oh Come, All Ye Faithful" are there among the other favorites.

Tracks:

Christmas Oratorio: Bereite Dich, Zion
Messiah: He Was Despised
Elijah: O Rest In The Lord
Alto Rhapsody
Ich Bin Der Welt Abhanden Gekommen
L'Invitation Au Voyage
Pie Jesu (From The Requieum Op.9)
Sea Pictures Op.37: I. Sea Slumber-Song
Sea Pictures Op.37: II. In Haven
Sea Pictures Op.37: III. Sabbath Morning At Sea
Sea Pictures Op.37: IV. Where Corals Lie
Sea Pictures Op.37: V. The Swimmer
The Angel's Farewell - Ambrosian Singers

Tracks:

Linden Lea
A Boy Was Born, Op.3: Corpus Christi Carol
Pretty Ring Time
Prison
Soir
Clair De Lune
Ave Maria (Ellens Gesang III)
Gretchen Am Spinnrade
Wiegenlied (Schlafe, Schlafe)
Die Forelle
Auf Dem Wasser Zu Singen
An Die Musik
An Sylvia
Nacht Und Traume
Heidenroslein
Du Bist Die Ruh'
Auf Flugeln Des Gesanges
Liederkreis, Op.39: Mondnacht
Frauenliebe Und -Leben Op.42: Du Ring An Meinem Finger
Geistliches Wiegenlied
Befreit
Morgen!

Amazon.com

While it is impossible to really squeeze The Very Best of Janet Baker onto just two CDs, this two and a half hour anthology is a fine portrait of the British mezzo-soprano. Central to CD 1 is Elgar's Sea Pictures, a definitive account with the London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Sir John Barbirolli. While other British music is represented by Vaughan Williams's "Linden Lea," Britten's "Corpus Christie Carol," and Warlock's "Pretty Ring Time," CD 2 balances the program with 10 Schubert songs accompanied at the piano by either Gerald Moore or Geoffrey Parsons, which range from "Ave Maria" to Shakespeare. The set lends equal weight to orchestral and more intimate song, as well as to works in English--a very moving reading of Handel's "He was despised" from Messiah--and European landmarks, including Mendelssohn's On Wings of Song and Brahms's Alto Rhapsody, the latter with a superlative London Philharmonic Orchestra under Sir Adrian Boult. In an age of technically dazzling but sometimes bland singers, this release is a reminder of emotionally intense musicianship that retains vocal clarity and commitment to the composer's intentions over superstar ego. The word great is often used all too easily, but it could not be more appropriate for this outstanding collection of a great singer. --Gary S. Dalkin

Customer Reviews:

The Very Best of Janet Baker is simply the very best!.......2005-02-09

This cd and this amazing musician are an absolute must have for any music lover or music snob alike! Her voice is amazing!

Grace Incarnate.......2002-09-02

If there is one singer who has ever truly been able to master the singer's art of interpretation, this is her. She is a gift to music, I truly believe this. A few words, or glowing adjectives could not accurately describe the singing of a woman who epitomizes art. And music. Grace and beauty.
Each track on this cd is a perfect union of poetry, melody and technicality. Dame Janet Baker fully immerses herself into each piece, and delivers highly commited, intelligent & emotional performances.

A Rare & Glorious Singer.......2002-06-10

This is a pretty good cross-section of Dame Janet's output from the prime of her career. There are few if any singers like her around today. There are many mezzos who can sing beautifully, with great articulation and finesse, but they lack the moral and musical integrity Dame Janet always brought to her singing. The voice is ardent, seeking, yearning, finding, exulting. Listen to the excerpt from "Dream of Gerontius" or the third of the "Sea Pictures" to see what I mean.
She does not sing to show off. She sings to enlighten, to illuminate, to reveal, to enter into. Her voice carries us off, near to Heaven.
Dame Janet has been neglected of late. This recording shows us why, in these perilous times, we need her more than ever.

Average customer rating:

Stokowski's famous romantic Bach delusions are a lot of fun
great Stokowski
Knockin on Heaven's Door
Magnificent
Heavenly Bach

Bach - Stokowski

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

Stokowski's Symphonic Bach, Vol. 2
Stokowski's Symphonic Bach
Stokowski: Bach Orchestral Transcriptions
The Fantastic Leopold Stokowski: Transcriptions For Orchestra
Debussy: Nocturnes No1-3; Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune

ASIN: B000002S9M
Release Date: 1997-03-18

Tracks:

Passacaglia & Fugue in C Minor, BWV 582
'Komm, susser Tod,' BWV 478
English Suite No. 2, BWV 807: Bourree
Violin Partita In B Minor, BWV 1002: Sarabande
Cantata No. 80, BWV 80: 'Ein' feste Burg ist unser Gott'
Christmas Oratorio BWV 248: Shepard's Song
Little Fugue In G Minor, BWV 578
Orchestral Suite No. 3 BWV, 1068: Air On The G String
'Mein Jesu, was fur Seelenweh befallt dich in Gethsemane,' BWV 487
Violin Partita No. 3, BWV 1006: Preludio
Toccata & Fugue In D Minor, BWV 565

Customer Reviews:

Stokowski's famous romantic Bach delusions are a lot of fun.......2007-06-02

These recordings date from the late 1950's and still sound remarkably vivid and atmospheric. I'm not a big Stokowski fan but when the man was in his element, he could pull off some magnificient results. This CD in a case in point. The stunning string sound and gorgeous results that Stokowski summons here leave quite an impression. These are of course decadently Romantic readings of great Baroque music and many purists will run from the room when you put this on, but anyone who loves music can see that these transcriptions should not be heard as sins against an immortal master composer and instead are acts of love and dedication.

Even I can get annoyed at the schmaltzy antics of these recordings but they are not nearly as perverse as the later Decca Phase 4 versions Stokowski recorded. There have recently been plenty of conductors taking up Stokowski's transciptions but it's the original master who still stands the test of time.

The Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor was one instant where I was not fully in sympathy with Stokowski. The orchestral version here is far too dominated by the strings. If you listen to Ottorino Respighi's transcription which was recorded on a Chandos CD recently, you'll hear more instrumental color and variety in Respighi's version than with Stokowski. Furthermore, Stokowski's Decca Phase 4 record of the Passacaglia is so garish, grandiose and over the top, that it makes this earlier EMI version sound quite tame by comparison.

The rest of the music here was handled well but the saccharine sweetness of the strings can get tiresome. The big conclusion of the program is the famous Toccata and Fugue in D minor and rest assured, Stokowski does it proud. Unbelievably grand and imposing, it's an inspired performance without a doubt. All in all, a successful program and a good introduction to Leopold Stokowski's style of music-making.

great Stokowski.......2006-07-11

The Bach transcriptions written by Stokowski are among the most exciting presentations of Bach's music in the classical music repertoire. For one just hearing Bach for the first time this is a great introduction. For the serious listener it is pure joy. These, however, are not necessarily for the Bach purist.

Knockin on Heaven's Door.......2006-03-03

One of the greatest recordings in the cannon - even better due to the spectacular mix on this remastered issue. This soul-baring music must be heard, and heard at top, almost painful volume to realize how transcendent these transcriptions really are - earth-shaking and primal. Stokowski was one of the all-time, all-time greats - and to my ear - this recording is his best ever.

Magnificent.......2005-07-26

As a professional classical musician and deep lover of the works of J.S. Bach, I believe these transcriptions and performances of his works would have greatly pleased the master. This album is a magnificent work; especially, but not limited to, the incredible full orchestra arrangement of the most famous Toccata and Fugue in D Minor. It will simply take your breath away with its awesome majesty. You will not regret purchasing this!

Heavenly Bach.......2004-12-18

When I was 12 years old I was madly in love with Leopold Stokowski. Now I'm 74 and after hearing this CD I find I'm still in love with him. This is a whole new dimension of Bach. Stokowski's arrangements are lyrical and dramatic, refreshing and romantic. A totally delightful rendition of Bach's music that will soothe your heart and refresh your soul. To be listened to with an open mind. Enjoy!

Negro Spirituals - Derek Lee Ragin, Moses Hogan, Moses Hogan

Average customer rating:

Negro Spiriuals-Derek Lee Ragin, Moses Hogin
Recent Review

Negro Spirituals - Derek Lee Ragin, Moses Hogan, Moses Hogan

Manufacturer: Virgin Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
Similar Items:

Give Me Jesus | Spirituals by Barbara Hendricks and The Moses Hogan Singers
Ev'ry Time I Feel the Spirit: Spirituals
Go Down, Moses
Witness: What a Mighty God - Spirituals and Gospels for Chorus
Wade In The Water, Vol.1:African American Spirituals:The Concert Tradition

ASIN: B000F3T3A0
Release Date: 2006-09-12

Tracks:

Ain't That Good News
Soon Ah Will Be Done
Lord, I Want To Be A Christian
Walk Together, Children
God's Gonna Set This World On Fire
My Soul's Been Anchored In De Lord
Elijah Rock
Ride The Chariot
He's Got The Whole World In His Hands
Lord, I Can't Turn Back
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
Great Day
My Lord, What A Morning
I Thank You, Jesus
Away In A Manger
Let Us Break Bread Together On Our Knees
I've Been 'Buked
Wade In The Water
Come Here Jesus, If You Please
Amen
Silent Night

Customer Reviews:

Negro Spiriuals-Derek Lee Ragin, Moses Hogin.......2007-05-12

Excellent!!!!!!!! I gave my first purchase to a friend who is also a lover of spirituls and hymns and purchased another for myself. I just had to share it with someone. The music is so moving. I would highly recommend this CD to anyone, regardless of them being a lover of spirituals and hymns or not. I plan on purchasing another one soon.

Recent Review.......2007-05-06

THere was only one piece that I thoroughly enjoyed and that was the solo on "My Lord, What a Morning," but I can tell you that one song made the purchase worth while.

Phil B

Average customer rating:

Good Introduction

Swingle Singers

Manufacturer: Virgin Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

Classic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

A Cappella | Folk | Styles | Music

The Swingle Singers - Bach Hits Back ~ A Capella Amadeus
Keyboard Classics
Jazz Sebastian Bach, Vol. 1
Mood Swings
Christmastime

ASIN: B000A2ES7E
Release Date: 2006-01-24

Tracks:

Peter Gunn
Fugue In D Sharp Minor
Joshua Fought The Battle In Jericho
Alla Turca
Cachapaya
Andante
Country Dances
Requiem
Concerto No.3
De Punta Y Taco
Air On G String
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik
Coventry Carol
Symphony No.40
Fugue BWV 542

Customer Reviews:

Good Introduction.......2007-02-16

As might be expected with a compilation, this is a little inconsistent. It also lacks the more swinging tracks they recorded with a jazz rhythym section, but it's still a great and very inexpensive introduction to this great a cappella group, who were a staple of movie soundtracks in the 60's.

Handel: Messiah (Complete Oratorio); Battle, Quivar, Aler, Ramey, Davis

Average customer rating:

A Superlative Recording
You like it big? Try this!
Superior Recording of the Messiah
My Review
best ever

Handel: Messiah (Complete Oratorio); Battle, Quivar, Aler, Ramey, Davis
George Frideric Handel , Andrew Davis , Kathleen Battle , Florence Quivar , John Aler , Samuel Ramey , and Toronto Symphony Orchestra & Toronto Mendelssohn Choir
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

Battle, Kathleen | Divas | 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
Similar Items:

Handel - Messiah / Ameling · A. Reynolds · Langridge · Howell · Marriner
Handel: Messiah
A Christmas Celebration: Kathleen Battle
Handel: Messiah /Nelson * Kirkby * Watkinson * Elliott * Thomas * AAM * Hogwood
Mendelssohn: Elijah

ASIN: B000002RPL
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Messiah: Sinfonia
Messiah: Comfort ye my people
Messiah: Ev'ry valley shall be exalted
Messiah: And the glory, the glory of the Lord
Messiah: Thus saith the Lord
Messiah: But who may abide
Messiah: And He shall purify
Messiah: Behold a virgin shall conceive
Messiah: O thou that tellest
Messiah: For behold darkness shall cover the earth
Messiah: The people that walked in darkness
Messiah: For unto us a child is born
Messiah: Pastoral Symphony
Messiah: There were shepherds
Messiah: And lo the Angel of the Lord
Messiah: And the angel said unto them
Messiah: And suddenly there was with the angel
Messiah: Glory to God in the highest
Messiah: Rejoice greatly o daughter of Zion
Messiah: Then shall the eyes of the blind
Messiah: He shall feed his flock
Messiah: His yoke is easy
Messiah: Behold the Lamb of God
Messiah: He was despised

Tracks:

Messiah: Surely He Hath Borne Our Griefs
Messiah: And With His Stripes We Are Healed
Messiah: All We Like Sheep
Messiah: All They That See Him
Messiah: He Trusted In God
Messiah: Thy Rebuke Hath Broken His Heart
Messiah: Behold And See If There Be Any Sorrow
Messiah: He Was Cut Off Out Of The Land
Messiah: But Thou Didst Not Leave
Messiah: Lift Up Your Heads
Messiah: Unto Which Of The Angels
Messiah: Let All The Angels Of God Worship Him
Messiah: Thou Art Gone Up On High
Messiah: The Lord Gave The Word
Messiah: How Beautiful Are The Feet
Messiah: Their Sound Is Gone Out
Messiah: Why Do The Nations
Messiah: Let Us Break Their Bonds Asunder
Messiah: He That Dwelleth In Heaven
Messiah: Thou Shalt Break Them
Messiah: Hallelujah
Messiah: I Know That My Redeemer Liveth
Messiah: Since By Man Came Death
Messiah: Behold I Tell You A Mystery
Messiah: The Trumpet Shall Sound
Messiah: Then Shall Be Brought To Pass
Messiah: O Death Where Is Thy Sting
Messiah: But Thanks Be To God
Messiah: If God Be For Us
Messiah: Worty Is The Lamb... Amen

Amazon.com

There are two English Davises, both conductors: Colin and Andrew--no relation. Colin recorded a landmark Messiah which is still available on Philips at budget price. This one is another matter entirely. Andrew Davis certainly knows this music, and he hits the big moments with gusto. But Messiah is more than big moments, and despite an excellent cast of soloists, there's too little involvement with the music (especially from Kathleen Battle) in the arias and more intimate moments to make this a clear recommendation. It's not bad, but the competition is just that much better. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

A Superlative Recording.......2007-03-12

This is a truly superlative recording of the Messiah. The soloists are all first rate. John Aler could not have done a better job as the tenor, and Samuel Ramey is surely the world's best ever coloratura bass. His voice is big and black and incredibly flexible! And the bass has twice as many arias as anyone else, so this is very important when choosing a Messiah recording. Kathleen Battle is in excellent voice and the "talk" about her not being emotionally involved is just nonsense. Florence Quivar is a superb mezzo who is not nearly as famous as she should be. She does an excellent job. The conductor also does a superb job, bringing all the forces in line with just the right tempi and dynamics.
My only complaint about this recording is that I think the chorus is merely OK. Personally, I like my choruses to sound like the chorus of the Metropolitan Opera, where every singer could also be a soloist. You won't find that here--it is more on the line of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Good enough, but not great voices.

You like it big? Try this!.......2007-03-03

What a recording! This is the best of the large scale offerings. A powerhouse! Try it! It'll blow you out of the house!

Superior Recording of the Messiah.......2007-01-20

This recording of Handel's Messiah has always been my favorite.

My Review.......2007-01-11

I am happy with my purchase, as I have been with all my other ones from Amazon. I only had difficulty one time with not being able to complete a purchase on line, due to some kind of computer glitch. I imagine it was something I was doing incorrectly.

best ever.......2007-01-10

This is the best recding of the Messiah I have heard. The balance between the orchestra and the chorus is very good.

Sacred Classics - Messiah, Ave Maria, Pie Jesu, Zadok the Priest, L'enfance du Christ

Average customer rating:

A wonderful and varied compilation of Sacred Choral Works

Sacred Classics - Messiah, Ave Maria, Pie Jesu, Zadok the Priest, L'enfance du Christ
George Frideric Handel , Johann Sebastian Bach , Gabriel Fauré , Antonio Vivaldi , Charles Gounod , Johannes Brahms , Edward Elgar , Gioachino Rossini , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Franz Schubert , Giuseppe Verdi , César Franck , Hector Berlioz , Franz Joseph Haydn , Felix Mendelssohn , Gregorio Allegri , Conservatory Concert Society Orchestra , New Philharmonia Orchestra , Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields , London Philharmonia Orchestra , Halle Orchestra , Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Orchestra , Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra , Berlin Symphony Orchestra , Sir Charles Mackerras , Andre Cluytens , Riccardo Muti , David Willcocks , Philip Ledger , and Otto Klemperer
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Gloria: Music of Praise & Inspiration
Choral Masterpieces
Ave Maria
The #1 Choral Album
The Power & The Majesty: Essential Choral Classics

ASIN: B000000UWF
Release Date: 2003-08-05

Tracks:

Hallelujah - Ambrosian Singers
I Know That My Redeemer Liveth - Ambrosian Singers
Pie Jesu - Victoria De Los Angeles
In Excelsis Deo - Teresa Berganza
Jesu Bleibet Meine Freude - Choir Of King's College Cambridge
Ave Maria - Philip Ledger
Zadok The Priest - Coronation Anthem - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
Wie Lieblich Sing Deine Wohnungen - Phiharmonia Chorus
Sanctus Fortis - Richard Lewis
Agnus Dei - Dame Janet Baker
Cujus Animam Gementem - Robert Gambill
Lacrimosa - New Philharmonia Orchestra
Ave Maria - Gerald Moore
Ingemisco - Confutatis - Dies Irae - New Philharmonia Chorus

Tracks:

Panis Angelicus - Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
Herrscher Des Himmels, Erhore Das Lallen - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
Ouverture - L'Adieu Des Bergers - Choeurs Rene Duclos
Libera Me Domine - Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau
Ave Verum Corpus, K618 - Swedish Radio Chorus
Die HImmel Erzahlen Die Ehre Gottes - Jose Van Dam
Komm, Holder Lenz! - Chor Der Deutschen Oper Berlin
Lord God Of Abraham - New Philharmonia Chorus
And Then Shall Your Light Break Forth - New Philharmonia Chorus
Miserere Mei, Deus - Stephen Cleobury
Erbarme Dich, Sein Gott - Julia Hamari
O Haupt Voll Blut Und Wundern - Julia Hamari
Ich Folge Dir Gleichfalls - Lisa Otto
Ach Herr, Lass Dein Lieb' Engelein - Lisa Otto

Customer Reviews:

A wonderful and varied compilation of Sacred Choral Works.......2001-08-13

This is a 2 CD set and is one of my favorites. While this CD contains several pieces that the general public probably hears often (Handel's Messiah, Bach's Jesu Bleibet mein freund) it also contains some not well known pieces. Of particular quality is the recording of Gregorio Allegri's MISERE MEI DEUS, a piece composed at the end of the Renaissance era. This piece, lasting roughly 13 minutes, is a master stroke of pure choral music. The piece is repetitive but Allegri builds up to a fantastic ending. Also of note is the glorious recording of Mozart's AVE VERUM CORPUS, Hadyn's DIE SCHOPFUNG, and Brahm's EIN DEUTCHES REQUIEM. A MUST for any choral music fan.

Super Artists on Super Audio, Vol. 2 [Hybrid SACD]

Average customer rating:

Super Artists on Super Audio, Vol. 2 [Hybrid SACD]

Manufacturer: Channel Classics Nl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Sextets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Improvisation | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music

$9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

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

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Super Artists on Super Audio
Super Artists on Super Audio, Vol. 3 [Hybrid SACD]
Concord Records SACD Sampler 1 (Multichannel Hybrid SACD)
Concord Jazz Sampler Vol.2
Stay in Tune with PentaTone [Hybrid SACD]

ASIN: B00027X3R8
Release Date: 2004-07-13

A Little Chrismas Music: Kiri Te Kanawa; The King's Singers

Average customer rating:

a voice teacher and early music fan
like all but one track
Heaven is here!
A Very Mixed Bag
Among My Top 10 Christmas Recordings

A Little Chrismas Music: Kiri Te Kanawa; The King's Singers
various/traditional , Dame Kiri Te Kanawa , The King's Singers , London Sinfonia , and Richard Hickox
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | 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
Similar Items:

The King's Singers Original Debut Recording
Watching the White Wheat: Folk Songs of the British Isles; King's Singers
Kids' Stuff
The King"s Singers: English Renaissance
Annie Laurie ~ Folksongs of the British Isles / Barrueco · The King's Singers

ASIN: B000002RRF
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Here We Come A-Wassailing
It Came Upon The Midnight Clear
The Little Drummer Boy
I Wonder As I Wander
We Wish You A Merry Christmas
Es Ist Ein Ros' Entsprungen
Ding Dong! Merrily On High
Stille Nacht
O Little Town Of Bethlehem
A Little Christmas Music (Medley A La Mozart)
The Coventry Carol (Lully, Lulla)
The Boar's Head Carol
Gaudete
Joy To The World
Three Spanish Carols: Riu, Riu, Chiu
Three Spanish Carols: El Nino Querido
Three Spanish Carols: Villancico Catalan
Deck The Hall
The Wexford Carol
The Gift (Simple Gifts)
Patapan And Farandole

Customer Reviews:

a voice teacher and early music fan.......2006-11-29

The King's Singers come to us steeped in the 500 year old English tradition of choral singing; and that's fine with me.!!!There are 6 singers in this group (the personnel change from time to time)namely: Jeremy Jackman and Alastair Hume (countertenors)- Robert Chilcott (tenor)- Bruce Russell and Simon Carrington (baritones) and Stephen Connolly (bass). They are very capably accompanied by the City of London Sinfonia and Brass Quintet conducted by Richard Hickox. An added PLUS is the great Kiri Te Kanawa who sings an arrangement by Daryl Runswick entitled "A Little Christmas Music (Medley a la Mozart)". It's a hodge-podge of Mozart melodies sewn together in a rather haphazard manner, and meant to be humorous. I guess this type of composition does not appeal to me personally, and I'm sorry that Kiri's glorious voice was wasted. However, that's only MY opinion; I am certain others may disagree.
This album is really a mixture of Christmas tunes and that's partly what makes it interesting. And, of course it is masterfully sung by the King's singers;I enjoy all their discs; especially the recording of Gilbert and Sullivan tunes. Some of the arrangements on this disc are somewhat esoteric, and I'm not too fond of the very STRANGE arrangement (again by Daryl Runswick) of the Coventry Carol, but 'to each his own'. Their opening selection:"Here We Come a-wassailing" (arr. Robert Chilcott) is a great opening number and I must say that it's the best arrangement I have ever heard of this selection.
Let's face it:the KING'S SINGERS are perfection. But don't forget our American group:Chanticleer.

like all but one track.......2006-02-02

With the exception of track 11 (The Coventry Carol, Lully lulla) I really like this CD. I personally prefer the traditional renditions of The Coventry Carol. I do not like the "modern" harmonics and arrangement of it on this CD. Otherwise, it is very fine, indeed.

Heaven is here!.......2005-10-26

Xmas carols are always touching, but this cd is beyond all you have already heard. The King's Singers plus Kiri Te Kanawa is a combination of angelical adult voices, yes, adults can also have angelical voices. Buy this cd and check yourself if it is not true!

A Very Mixed Bag.......2003-08-15

I've often admired the King's Singers' performances, and of course they are a famous and accomplished ensemble, noted for the precision of their close-harmony singing, so I was looking forward to this CD. I regret to say that I find it a very mixed bag, on the whole disappointing. Unfortunately the reliable executant skills of the King's Singers are not matched here by their judgment and taste in choosing arrangements--perhaps there was too great a push for mixing it up, adding variety, "something different." The resulting arrangements are wildly uneven, some of them unattractive and tasteless in varying degrees from mild to dreadful. They range from the very good (bands 7 and 18: straightforward a cappella close-harmony, which is what these singers do best), to exotic (band 16), to schmaltzy (band 5), to busy (band 8), to campy (bands 11 and 19), to cutesy (bands 3 and 6), to terminally cutesy-poo (bands 4, 11, and 19). "Deck the halls," for example, is done in by its arch, cutesy-poo arrangement, as is "White Christmas," which even includes a bizarre, wholly gratuitous interpolation of a bit from Prokofiev's Lieutenant Kije, God knows why!

Band 12, "The Coventry Carol," the longest cut on the CD, demands special mention: it is downright awful. The annotator of this CD writes cosily, "And of course there are the old traditional English Christmas songs, all mulled wine and mince pies." Nothing could be less descriptive of what we get here, where the misguided, pretentious, weird, grotesquely ugly, far-out dissonant-modern arrangement does its utmost to pervert and spoil this lovely old English carol, twisting and distorting it into something almost unrecognizable; this cut is a real horror. (Sir David Willcocks, the famed King's College choirmaster under whom the King's Singers trained and sang as youths, would be appalled. The man responsible for this travesty, one Daryl Runswick, also arranged two other selections; his consistently tasteless arrangements comprise three of the four worst on the CD.)

The performing forces vary from the a cappella singers to accompaniments with brass ensemble or orchestra. The variable but undistinguished engineering (EMI's Abbey Road studios, 1989)--over-processed, over-bright, hard-edged, and occasionally canned-sounding--is an additional drawback. If you like traditional Christmas music (as I do) you might want to think twice before buying this CD. At least try to listen to it first. Caveat emptor.

Among My Top 10 Christmas Recordings.......2002-12-26

King's Singers maintains the highest standard for all those who aspire to create spine-tingling a cappella harmony. Somewhat akin to the small number of their peers worldwide, no style seems off limits to their abilities. But certain aspects set the King's Singers apart. Perhaps it is their early and consistent training in the English choral discipline, or the many, years of touring together in one combination or other. Their most remarkable quality is their quintessentially English sound -- the pipe-like tone produced especially in the mid- to upper registers -- that is at once remarkably free of vibrato, but still alive with overtones. If one listens closely to the solo parts, it becomes evident: the sound isn't produced merely by excellent group intervallic intonation, but by individual voices capable of producing overtones. Thus, it's the sound you can't hear that takes your breath away.

Because the recording is so excellent on the whole, one disappointment stands out: I wish that Coventry Carol had been saved for another recording. The dissonances conjure up distressing images at odds with the overall effect they seem to have been trying to accomplish with the recording, and I can certainly imagine that in another context, I might have been interested and emotionally moved, rather than unsettled and annoyed.

In any case, this has remained for years one of my favorite Christmas recordings, and I have to give it 5 stars.

Track Listings: