Christus (Oratorio)

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Liszt's two huge oratorios are almost completely unknown. One of the most intelligent and complex composer/performers of the 19th century, his reputation as a virtuoso showman has almost completely eclipsed his other side: the spiritual, questing musical innovator and man of God. Christus is really a series of independent compositions that the composer assembled to put together as a musical overview of the life of Christ, and it's a work of uncompromising austerity. Try it when you're feeling particularly penitential, and while I wouldn't recommend listening to the entire thing at a sitting, from point to point the music has many beauties. This performance is very committed and excellently recorded. --David Hurwitz

Tracks:

Introitus: Ecce advenit
Graduale: Onmes de Saba
Communio: Omnes qui in Christo
Halleluja: Dies sanctificatus
Ofertorium: Tui sunt caeli
Hymnus: Creator alme siderum
Introitus: Gaudens gaudebo
Halleluja: Leatatus sum
Communio: Dicite Pusillanimes
Tractus Deus: Deus meus
Introitus: Misereris
Antiphon: Pueri Hebraeorum
Hymnus: Gloria
Graduale: Christus factus est
Halleluja: Hallelujah
Introitus: Resurrexi
Sequenz: Victimae paschalis laudes
Hymnus: Veni creator

Customer Reviews:

Relaxing..........2007-07-22

If you like gregorian chants... you will love this cd. Its perfect to just sit on you own... and meditate.

Great music, great price.......2007-05-07

I ordered this cd for a book club I was hosting on the book "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett. It was perfect "mood" music for the discussion and the price was unbeatable!

Definitely Meditative.......2007-03-09

The gift that these men are able to share is worth listening to. To be quiet in yourself and allow space for this soulful chanting is an experience in itself.

Gregorian Meditation.......2007-01-13

Great CD. My wife and I listen to it almost daily. We even use it for prayer sessions. Also the product was in perfect condition and and was as advertised. We're totaly satified.

Beautiful.......2007-01-13

I have bought Volumes I and II and am very pleased with the quality, the sound, and the style of the chanting. The lyrics are amazing, many of which come straight from the Bible, especially from the Book of Psalms. Let me know of other great Chant CD's, be they Gregorian, Amabrosian, or even Greek/Byzantine.

Average customer rating:

Chant
Chant
PEACE FROM WITHIN
Gregorian Chant
RELAXING

Chant
Gregorian Chant , and The Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo de Silos
Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Chant II
Lost in Meditation: Meditative Gregorian Chants, Vol. 1
Gregorian Chants: The Best of the Benedictine Monks of St. Michael's
Lost in Meditation: Meditative Gregorian Chants
Salve Regina: Gregorian Chant

ASIN: B000002SKX
Release Date: 1994-03-15

Tracks:

Puer Natus Est Nobis: Intriot (Modo VII)
Os Iusti: Gradual (Modo I)
Christus Factus Est Pro Nobis: Gradual (Modo V)
Mandatum Novum Do Vobis: Antiphonal And Psalm 132 (Modo III)
Media Vita In Morte Sumus: Responsorio (Modo IV)
Alleluia, Beatus Vir Qui Suffert: (Modo I)
Spiritus Domini: Introit (Modo VIII)
Improperium: Offertorio (Modo VIII)
Laetatus Sum: Gradual (Modo VII)
Kyrie XI - A: (Modo I)
Puer Natus In Bethlehem: Ritmo (Modo I)
Jacta Cogitatum Tuum: Gradual (Modo VII)
Verbum Caro Factum Est: Responsorio (Modo VII)
Genuit Puerpera Regem: Antiphonal And Psalm 99 (Modo II)
Occuli Omnium: Gradual (Modo VII)
Ave Mundi Spes Maria: Sequenza (Modo I)
Kyrie Fons Bonitatis: Trope (Modo III)
Veni Sancte Spiritus: Sequenza (Modo I)
Hosanna Filio David: Antiphonal (Modo VII)

Amazon.com

Thanks to good marketing, good cover art, and good luck, this disc probably has sold more copies than most other recordings of Gregorian chant put together. It's often quipped that most of those discs have been listened to exactly once and put away--to the puzzlement of many musicians and critics, who point out that there are more beautiful, more varied performances by professional singers available. Yet the singing of these Spanish Benedictines has a special quality that probably explains this disc's popularity--a reverent serenity that no doubt stems from the fact that the monks are actually praying, not just performing. Granted, Chant can become a bit monotonous with repeated listening, but it really gives you the sense of devotion that has always been the purpose of "Gregorian" chant. If this recording (ahem) enchants you at first, wonderful. If you get bored with it later, don't give up--there has been an extraordinary variety of styles and sounds over the 1,500-year history of plainchant, so go exploring with Anonymous 4, Ensemble Gilles Binchois, Sequentia, or Ensemble Organum. You won't be sorry. --Matthew Westphal

Customer Reviews:

Chant.......2007-06-25

The CD was received on time and in excellent condition. I use the CD in the evenings to slow me down and get me in a relaxed mood.

Chant.......2007-03-09

It is a true to life portrail of the medieval prayer form.

Some things are ageless.

PEACE FROM WITHIN.......2007-01-09

I can't understand most of the latin words in these chants but the spirituality, harmony and the "music" in the monks' voices are refreshing to the soul. I know that several monks sing but you basically hear one voice. I would suggest that a pocket size book with the translation of each chant should accompany each CD.

Gregorian Chant.......2006-08-13

I purchased this item because one of my children has been going through the Tomatis method of auditory integration training to correct some auditory processing issues that affect his ability to communicate. The Gregorian Chant was recommended as a follow up because of its many and pure sound frequencies. After listening to different samples of the Chant, I picked the one sung by the Monks of Santo Domingo de Silos for its sound clarity. Also, it has been interesting to see the reaction of all my children. Two of them weep when they listen to the chant and the other one seems be soothed by it. As an adult, it is this soothing effect from the Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo de Silos that I find most fascinating.

RELAXING.......2006-03-24

EXCELLENT FOR RELAXING, MEDITATION, OR INTROSPECTION. WHEN I HAVE HAD A BAD DAY, I POP THIS IN ON MY WAY HOME FOR RELAXATION.

Gregorian Chants: The Best of the Benedictine Monks of St. Michael's

Average customer rating:

Gregorian Chants: The Best of the Benedictine Monks of St. Michael's
Fantastic
DOMINE LABIA MEA APERIES
It's a stinker!!
Unbiased reponse to Caesarmagnus

Gregorian Chants: The Best of the Benedictine Monks of St. Michael's
Denis Stevens , Benedictine Monks of St. Michael's de Laudes , The Monks of the Benedictine Abbey of St. Benoit , The Ambrosian Singers , and Fr. Joseph Montalbo
Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Chant
Chant II
Salve Regina: Gregorian Chant

ASIN: B000001VIR
Release Date: 1994-08-02

Tracks:

Sancte Dei
Salve Sanctus Parens
In Paradisum Angeli
Sanctus & Benedictus
Conditor Alme
Organ Voluntary
Te Lucis Ante Terminum
Christus Natus Christos
Kyrie Christe Eleison
Organ Voluntary
Gloria
Puer Natus Est
Sanctus & Benedictus, II
Beata Dei
Veni Sancte Spiritus
Organ Voluntary
In Paradisum Angeli, Reprise
Dominus Exsultemus

Customer Reviews:

Gregorian Chants: The Best of the Benedictine Monks of St. Michael's.......2007-01-11

The CD was in perfect shape, was shipped very promptly and I have enjoyed listening to it - especially when feeling stressed.

Fantastic.......2007-01-10

The is one CD that is calming to everyone even an overactive, over excited puppy.

DOMINE LABIA MEA APERIES.......2006-05-08

"Lord Open my Lips......"

I would suggest that anyone REALLY interested in PURE, GREGORIAN CHANT to access the following Carthusian Link:

[...]

You will hear Gregorian Chants as you have never heard before.
As a former Trappist Monk, where the Choir Monks sang the Divine Office each day - a total of about 7 hours - and in the Cistercian Chant, the CARTHUSIAN CHANT is by far the most pure of the two traditional chants. The Carthusians do NOT utilize any musical instruments as is used in some Trappist Communities and Benedictine Communities.

This recording is a rather poor rendition, but seems to please some listeners. For those purists among you, access the above site.

The Carthusian Gregorian Chant has its own renditions. You will notice whenever the Nuns or Monks are chanting the 'GLORIA' that the tempo is drastically reduced, and not rushed thru.

Background noises in this recording make it difficult to really appreciate the Chant.

In the Carthusian Chants - especially those from La Grande Chartreuse, France, the diction is crisp, clear and every Latin Word is distinguishable.

It's a stinker!!.......2006-03-13

The cover art is good, but the music is horrible! This is a REALLY bad recording!

Unbiased reponse to Caesarmagnus.......2005-04-22

Agreed, the fan IS there, but I must admit they are actually singing well in the actual Solesmes style (based on these samples). I have heard superb chant and frighteningly bad chant. This is not as bad as it gets I assure you. Try to find something from a Seminary or Monastery.

Average customer rating:

Superb relaxation
What a recording
FANTASTIC!!
Please ignore the other review on this product!
It sounds like all the other chant cd's out there

Chant: The Anniversary Edition
Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo de Silos
Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Lost in Meditation: Meditative Gregorian Chants, Vol. 1
Lost in Meditation: Meditative Gregorian Chants
The Mystery Of Santo Domingo De Silos Gregorian Chant From Spain

ASIN: B0001XAP1A
Release Date: 2004-05-04

Tracks:

Alleluia Beatus Vir Qui Suffert (Modo I)
Mandatum Novum Do Vobis
Media Vita In Morte Sumus
Laetatus Sum
Veni Creator Spiritus
Genuit Puerpera Regem
Kyrie Fons Bonitatis
Nos Autem
Super Flumina
Qui Manducat
Salve Regina
Salve, Festa Dies
Rorate Saeli De Super
Jacta Cogitatum Tuum
Jucundare
Veni Sancte Spiritus
Respice, Domine
Alleluia, Oportebat

Tracks:

Christus Factus Est Pro Nobis
Puer Natus Est Nobis
Ave Mundi Specs Maria
Spiritus Domini
Os Iusti
A Solis Ortus Cardine
Oculi Omnium
Alleluia, Dies Santificatus
Viderunt Omnes
Puer Natus In Bethlehem
Verbum Caro
Tui Sunt
Pueri Herbraeorum Portantes
Improperium
Tristis Est
Una Hora
Traditor Autem-Benedictus
Ubi Caritas

Amazon.com

This set contains the two CDs that, it must be acknowledged, just about started the Chant craze in 1994. The music was actually recorded in the 1970s and 1980s (this new set has been remastered and sounds better than the 1994-95 releases did) and was on sale in Spain and offered at the Monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos for some time before it became "hot." Since then, hundreds of CDs of chant and similar music have appeared, many more polished then these, but perhaps these were so special because they weren't performances: they caught actual Monks in the act of praying, and the meditative quality is undeniably real. Whatever the case, this is music for reflection, calming down, re-fueling and getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life--which may be even more needed now than they were 10 years ago. Texts are not supplied and you won't need them; it's all about reverence and mood. Doing nothing but listening to this in 25-minute chunks will allow your breathing to slow and re-energize you. Each 55-minute CD will probably put you to sleep--and this isn't meant as a criticism. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Superb relaxation.......2007-04-01

This is a wonderful compilation. I greatly enjoy listening to it when I'm working on painting or another activity where lower blood pressure is a must. Having two albums in one makes the deal even sweeter. If you alreaddy own Chant I and II, then there's no real value added, but with mine lost in a move, it was a great return of music I enjoy.

What a recording.......2006-12-01

Mystic,eternal, and meditative is how I would
describe these chants, a most perfect gift
for Christmas. This reissue sounds even better
than the ones released in the mid 90's.
I would highly recommend this recording to anyone.
The only rule is sit down, or lay back and enjoy.

FANTASTIC!!.......2006-01-25

BUYERS BE WARNED - this set should not purchased in lieu of the two original Chant CDs but rather as a supplement to them. Because although both the Amazon.com editorial review and one of the two reviews available for the Anniversary Edition both indicate it is nothing more than a remastered version of the original two Chant releases from 1994, a thorough check of the track listings at Amazon.com (and at angelrecords.com) demonstrates that this is not the case. The sequence of tracks is completely different and there are numerous tracks that appear on one of the original Chant CDs but not on the Anniversary Edition and vice versa. The most complete is the first of the two original discs as all but two of its nineteen tracks appear on the Anniversary Edition. Chant II has less than half a dozen of its tracks appearing on the Anniversary Edition.

However, this complaint aside, I love the Anniversary Edition. Although the track sequence is different from the original Chant CD and I find myself expecting certain chants to follow others, I will in time get used to the differences.

Moving on, this is not complicated material. There is no polyphonic, raucous, symphonic accompaniment. There are no rowdy, raging guitar riffs from the likes of Pepper Keenan or Jeff Loomis. There are no ultra-funky looped drum beats, booming bass, or rapped socio-political venom from the likes of the Ice Cube or Public Enemy. There is neither a Cecilia Bartoli nor a BB King to sustain things by sheer virtuosity. There are only the exquisitely simple, melodic sounds of monks singing/chanting in Latin in a great, grand hall with nary a trace of echo to be heard. This is gorgeous, sublime, invigorating music to soothe the sores of the soul and heal the hardened heart. The raw honesty and utter conviction of the `performers' on these two discs drive these pieces home with a power that more practiced and polished performers dare not dream of. Even with no transcription or translation of the chants inside the booklet, this is music to be enjoyed by everyone.

My recommendation is to procure Chant: The Anniversary Edition immediately and be thankful that such simple and supremely powerful music exists to bring some light into our seemingly ever-darkening world.

Thanks for reading.

Please ignore the other review on this product!.......2005-07-21

The other reviewer obviously does not realize that this is a re-release of both Chant I and Chant II. They have also been remastered. I highly recommend purchasing this 2-CD set because the quality is better than the originals, and the price is usually better than buying the first two separately. I wouldn't be without this in my music collection. Please do no let the ignorance of others keep you from experiencing this beautiful, ethereal music.

It sounds like all the other chant cd's out there.......2005-03-16

There is nothing special about this CD - buy Chant 1, save 5 bucks, and call it good

Average customer rating:

Outstanding
The heavens are telling
Uncle Abe rattles the house with this thing
Sir Robert with ASO and Chorus at their Best!
Celestial melodies

Choral Masterpieces

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Gloria: Music of Praise & Inspiration
The Power & The Majesty: Essential Choral Classics
The #1 Choral Album
O Magnum Mysterium
Agnus Dei: Music of Inner Harmony

ASIN: B000003CTR
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Hallelujah
Ave Verum Corpus K.618
Kyrie Eleison
Passion Chorale
The Shepherds' Farewell
Lift Thine Eyes To The Mountains
He Watching Over Israel
Dona Nobis Pacem
Hallelujah
Worthy Is The Lamb
Sanctus
Bogoroditse Devo
Wie Lieblich Sind Deine Wohnungen
The Heavens Are Telling
Rex Tremendae

Customer Reviews:

Outstanding.......2007-01-12

-gave this as a Christmas gift to my brother-in-law, a church musician. He has listened over & over & thinks it is really outstanding. Thank you!

The heavens are telling.......2005-10-21

This is a very great chorus, and one of Haydn's best as far as i am concerned. The pace, grandness and spirit of the piece all conjure in one's imagination the majesty of heaven, and God's throne. I cannot help but be moved to praise the God of the heavens and the earth.

kanmi ogundipe

Uncle Abe rattles the house with this thing.......2004-11-22

I came home from work one day when my uncle was visiting my wife and myself. He was recently retired from the ministry. He had heard a lot of choral music in his life. My aunt said he had the stereo ( power end of my stereo at the time was an Adcomm 555 amp. conservatively rated at 200 watts RMS per channel) up so loud it was rattling the whole house. I too have come to love this music. I mostly listen to rock and roll; but the way my uncle, and now I, play this thing, it is rock and roll from another era!!!

Sir Robert with ASO and Chorus at their Best!.......2003-11-16

After Mr Shaw spent many years in NYC and Cleveland with RCA Red Label,he came into Atlanta for a big change! Soon he switched to TELARC DIGITAL! I still Joyfully remember our Recording of the Christmas Nativity in Dec of 1975! Sir Robert, conducting with earphones encasing his head shouted: "Stop the taping, there is some Darn Sizzling noise in those Lights!" We may have not heard the word "Damn" lights, that he employed at times!

On both this newer release of TELARC and the older Recording of The Christmas Nativity, there are Bach's Chorale, Break Forth, Dona Nobis Pacem from the B-Minor Mass, Handel's Hallelujah! Plus the exquisite, Shepherds's Farewell to the Holy Family of Berlioz's The Infant Christ!

Those who may not be familiar with Berlioz from both recordings, will be richly rewarded by hearing them plus the Rex Tremendae from Berlioz''s Requiem and the other Kyrie from the Bach B-Minor! Absolutely, no other Christmas Music can ever approach these two splendid recordings, which are the basis of the ASO celebrating every Christmas with "Robert Shaw in the Spirit!"

Retired Chaplain Fred W Hood

Celestial melodies.......2001-05-27

No matter what mood you are in, the gorgeous chorals will draft you through the paths of holiness, and you will find yourself situated in the Elysium, land of eternal joy, yet you are far from dead. The past grief, weariness, and worries will fade and torture your soul no more. You are set free.

Unfortunately, Nobody can be told what this heavenly experience is like. You have to listen to it yourself.

1000: A Mass for the End of Time / Anonymous 4
Average customer rating:

Want to hear something spectacular?

Lovely

Perfectly lovely - wrong, but still perfectly lovely.

Year 1000--A Mass for the End of Time

A Peace Beyond All Understanding

1000: A Mass for the End of Time / Anonymous 4
Gregorian Chant , and Anonymous 4
Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Gloryland

ASIN: B00004UFGW
Release Date: 2000-09-12

Tracks:

Processional Hymn: Judicii Signum
Troped Introit: Quem Creditis Super Astra/Viri Galilei
Kyrie: Celestis Terrestrisque
Gloria: Prudentia Prudentium
Alleluia I: Dominus In Sina
Alleluia II: Ascendens Cristus
Sequence With Prose: Salvator Mundi/Rex Omnipotens Die Hodierna
Troped Offertory: Elevatus Est Rex Fortis/Viri Galilei
Sanctus: Ante Secula
Agnus Dei: Omnipotens Eterne
Troped Communion: Corpus Quod Nunc/Psallite Domino
Lection: Apocalypse 21:1-5
Prose: Regnantem Sempiterna
Hymn: Cives Celestis Patrie

Amazon.com essential recording

Remember all of the year-2000 nervousness in the latter part of 1999? That was nothing. As the year 1000 approached, people all over the Christian world were convinced that the Apocalypse--as depicted in the biblical Book of Revelation--and the end of the world were at hand. In one of the more interesting musical program ideas to be inspired by the turn of the calendrical odometer, Anonymous 4 revisits the original "millennium madness" with a disc of chant from around the year 1000--specifically, a Mass for the Feast of the Ascension, one of the few occasions on which the liturgy included readings from the Book of Revelation. This is the oldest written Western music to have survived, and it's difficult even to decipher (the original notation has no staff lines or clear indications of rhythm), let alone perform. Yet, the challenges involved seem to have done these ladies good: not only is their performance both assured and confident, but one can hear new facets in their vocal sound--a sound that, however beautiful it might be, some listeners find monotonous. (One new facet is Jacqueline Horner, the quartet's newest member, for whom this is the first recording.) The singers experiment with interpretation of ornaments that are indicated in the manuscript sources (there's a fascinating little trill that sounds rather like a cooing dove); in some of the chants, they add an additional line in accordance with the principles of improvising polyphony that were laid out in 10th- and 11th-century treatises. The entire program seems thoroughly considered, as well as immaculately executed. If you count on the consistently pure, silky tone and meditative quality that has made Anonymous 4 world-famous, you'll definitely find it here; if you've gotten bored with them, you might find this disc a fascinating surprise. --Matthew Westphal

Customer Reviews:

Want to hear something spectacular?.......2007-05-23

For most folks, Gregorian Chants are probably a little off the beaten track. This is a stellar recording that's hard to beat, and the best of my Gregorian Chant collection. You won't be disappointed.

Lovely.......2006-03-03

A lovely performance of music from the beginning of the western musical tradition. The vocal quality of the performance is first rate and the music itself is very interesting. Recommended strongly.

Perfectly lovely - wrong, but still perfectly lovely........2004-06-28

For those of you who - like me - have had a couple experiences with Gregorian Chant that moved you deeply - and now you need some Gregorian Chant for those moods when nothing else is right - this is it. "A Mass For The End Of Time" is beautiful, and rich, and the selections intense and moving. This is exactly what most people reading this are looking for. Furthermore the performers seem to have captured the spirit of the music - which is critical because this is spiritual music. So why do I give it 4 stars?

Gregorian Chant is not music that can be removed from its place and time well. It is site specific - it should be heard live in a cathedral whose walls are stone or at least in a place that reflects sound - setting up resonance inside the head. Gregorian Chant is a form of meditation that is distinctly medieval European. The group that performs "A Mass For The End Of Time" is 4 women called Anonymous. But Gregorian Chant was written for men - it has different feel when men do it. Anonymous is very good - but the music would work even better with 4 equally good male voices.

Year 1000--A Mass for the End of Time.......2004-01-04

The year AD 1000 appeared to be an apocalyptic harbringer of destruction to the devout Catholics of Western Europe. This collection of medieval chants based on themes of God's impending wrath and the judgement of the world are excellent primary sources for understanding the mystical religious mindset of the days of yore. Gregorian Chant, while different from Byzantine (Greek) and Russian chanting, is a very methodological and otherworldly form of music. It's monotone is radically opposed to the harsh discord of "rock n' roll" and "rap" music which sound like broken machinery that are so popular among all aspects of society, even the so-called "Christian rock." Although the music itself is sung in Latin, the disc is accompanied by a booklet which gives the lyrics in English translation (along with a few other languages).

A Peace Beyond All Understanding.......2002-04-30

I have always been highly suspicious of "spiritual people". Why them and not me? I was only looking for pretty music when I, a rock n roller by upbringing, purchased this CD. What followed during the listening of this CD, was a deeply meditative state as I let the music, so beautiful words cannot describe, transport me into a deeper consciousness. There I was able to pray from the deepest part of my soul. A first. It has immediately replaced my incremental valium use. I am not a meditator, not into Yoga, don't even like people who are, but this music sounds like the holy ghost if it can be personified, who pleads with such compassion for each and every one of us in a world gone mad. The gregorian chant music on this particular cd seems to be telling the story of time and man to God. It is a sad and compassionate tale that doesn't miss a detail as its heavenly and soulful sound tells in words beyond my understanding a long story filled with strife, sin, pain and sorrow, yet with such love and feeling that it catches its listener up as though it were part of the communication to God and lifts the listener to a serene place where all of the cement jungle, and hostile traffic, and hate among people seem to become the other dimension and not the dimension you find yourself in when listening to this CD. Maybe it is something different for every listener. This was my experience.

Average customer rating:

Music to Transport You
The wrong CD
Truely the best...
Beautiful
a great cd

Mysteria

Manufacturer: Teldec
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000000SRW
Release Date: 1995-03-28

Tracks:

Ash Wednesday And Lent: Antiphon: Immutemur
Ash Wednesday And Lent: Kyrie XVII
Ash Wednesday And Lent: Gradual: Laetatus sum
Palm Sunday: Antiphon: Hosanna, Psalm 23
Maundy Thursday: Antiphon: Dominus Jesus
Good Friday: Responsory: Tenebrae factae sunt
Good Friday: Hymn with refrain: Pange lingua, Crux fidelis
Good Friday: Reproaches And Trisagion
Holy Saturday: Responsory: Christus factus est
Holy Saturday: Hymn: Vexilla Regis
EASTER: Gloria In excelsis II
EASTER: Alleluia V. Pascha nostrum
EASTER: Sequence: Victimae paschali laudes
EASTER: Offertory: Iubilate Deo
EASTER: Agnus Dei XVII
In Honor Of The Blessed Virgin Mary: Antiphon: Alma Redmeptoris
In Honor Of The Blessed Virgin Mary: Antiphon: Ave Regina caelorum
In Honor Of The Blessed Virgin Mary: Antiphon: Regina caeli
In Honor Of The Blessed Virgin Mary: Antiphon: Salve Regina

Amazon.com

From the first notes of the Lenten antiphon "Immutemur," you feel a soothing, reassuring calm from Chanticleer's sensuous, lyrical legato style and perfect unison expression and phrasing. This is first class singing, no matter what the repertoire. But this just happens to be chant, which requires a particular sensitivity to syllabic emphasis and to the rise and fall of phrasing, all of which is determined as much by tradition as by sense of the text. Since there is no existing notation that clearly indicates rhythm or meter for the earliest body of chant repertoire, and there is no unbroken line of chant singing that goes back to the first and second centuries, singers have to rely on a certain accepted scholarship and a tradition that's only a couple of hundred years old. Chanticleer's performing decisions here are articulate, musicologically sensible, and above all musically satisfying, taking this music to its proper level of exalted simplicity. The program includes some of the gems of Gregorian chant, such as "Pange lingua, Crux fidelis" and "Victimae paschali laudes." --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Music to Transport You.......2007-01-21

I love this CD and it accomplishes exactly what I'd hoped it would--it is relaxing, meditative, reflective and beautiful. I use it for my yoga exercises or when I want calming music.

The wrong CD.......2005-09-04

I really made a mistake in choosing this CD. The presentation was near perfect but I was looking for something more than just chanting.

Truely the best..........2003-09-12

...CD of Gregorian Chant (other than that recorded by our local abbey) that I have in my collection. The purity of pronounciation, the precision of timing and phrasing is beyond compare. Whether a lover of chant, or a first time listener, I recommend you give this a try.

Turn out the lights, light some candles, burn some incense and you will be transported to another, far more peaceful and less stressful place. I use this CD to focus on God during my prayer times, and I find it an invaluable worship resource.

Beautiful.......2002-05-19

I came upon Chanticleer through my interest in Renaissance polyphony. I bought their recording of Palestrina's Missa Pro Defunctis and was extremely pleased. I thought at first that they were explicitly dedicated to early music (I had only come across the Palestrina and this chant CD); my impression was that they were a kind of all-male version of the Tallis Scholars. I discovered, though, that they explore all types of music (from early to contemporary, even commissioning new works on a fairly regular basis). I was able to see them in concert a few weeks ago, and as always was impressed with their skill.

This group really does do almost everything well. They have put to disc a recording of Tallis' If Ye Love Me (one of the English Anthems) that is wonderful and sublime. When I heard them a few weeks ago, they did a few 20th century Cuban folk songs that were just as enjoyable. They are known best (probably) for their smooth sound and great blending. There are never any rough edges to any of the voices - even the countertenors, who are really quite skilled, by the way - and their balance is delicate and precise. That same smoothness is present on this CD as well. At times it is hard to believe that several voices are singing; the pitch and intonation is so good that often the 6 or so could pass for one or two. As usual, they are quite sensitive to the dynamics of the vocal line - their approach is subtle, and not forced. The result is an hour or so of chant that is soothing and relaxing, but also engaging and never monotonous.

The only drawback is this: as I understand the current state of "authentic" chant practice, Chanticleer's approach is probably not on the cutting edge of scholarly theory (they do not add some of the melismatic decorations that some groups use, for example). If you are really interested in that authenticity, the smooth voices might turn you off as well; many other groups use coarseness of the voices for texturing. Even if you are a stickler for those things, though, the visceral pleasure of listening to this recording will probably persuade you to put aside some of your ideas about "correct" practice.

On the other end of the spectrum (listeners with not much chant experience) this CD works to great effect as well. Again, the disc is an easy one to listen to; it is quiet and reflective without being spiritless. This CD might be a good choice for first exposure to Gregorian chant.

Highly recommended for all types of listeners. As per usual for Chanticleer, it is high quality work.

a great cd.......2001-10-23

This cd is great if your always feeling stressed out. The cd really shows how beautiful the latin language can be. Gregorian chanting is also one of the most oldest forms of christain worship dating back to a time when people lived in fear of the "dragons" that lived across the Altanic ocean and the "demons" that lived beyond what is now Germany. People looked to a higher power for comfort and still today the music is very relaxing. If you love the haunting latin voices are if your just a fan of the middle ages(the name chanticleer comes from the Chaucer's Canterbury Tales) then this cd is a must for you.

Average customer rating:

BEST CANTATA 51 SO FAR
Cantatas on Set by BWV # and name.
GLORIOUS BACH CONTINUES
Volume 8

Bach Cantatas, Vol. 8: Bremen, Santiago

Manufacturer: Soli Deo Gloria
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Bach Cantatas, Vol. 1: City of London
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Cantatas, Vol. 7

ASIN: B0006OR17U
Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

I. Coro E Recitativo: Warum Betrubst Du Dich, Mein Herz?
II. Recitativo: Bass Ich Bin Veracht'
III. Choral E Recitativo: Er Kann Und Will Dich Lassen Nicht
IV. Recitativo: Ach, Susser Trost!
V. Aria: Auf Gott Steht Meine Zuversicht
VI. Recitativo: Ei Nun!
VII. Choral: Weil Du Mein Gott Und Vater Bist
I. Coro: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
II. Recitativo: Sein Wort Der Wahrheit Stehet Fest
III. Aria: Erschuttre Dich Nur Nicht, Verzagte Seele
IV. Recitativo: Nun, Der Von Ewigkeit Geschlossne Bund
V. Aria (Duetto): Wenn Des Kreuzes Bitterkeiten
VI. Choral: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
I. Aria: Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen!
II. Recitativo: Wir Beten Zu Dem Tempel An
III. Aria: Hochster, Mache Deine Gute
IV. Choral: Sei Lob Und Preis Mit Ehren
V. Aria: Alleluja!
I. Coro: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
II. Duetto: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
III. Aria: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
IV. Aria: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
V. Aria: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
VI. Choral: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan

Tracks:

I. Aria: Komm, Du Susse Todesstunde
II. Recitativo: Welt, Deine Lust Ist Last
III. Aria: Mein Verlangen
IV. Recitativo: Der Schluss Ist Schon Gemacht
V. Coro: Wenn Es Meines Gottes Wille
VI. Choral: Der Leib Zwar In Der Erden
I. Coro E Recitativo: Wer Weiss, Wie Nahe Mir Mein Ende?
II. Recitativo: Mein Leben Hat Kein Ander Ziel
III. Aria: Willkommen! Will Ich Sagen
IV. Recitativo: Ach, Wer Doch Schon Im Himmel War!
V. Aria: Gute Nacht, Du Weltgetummel!
VI. Choral: Welt, Ade! Ich Bin Dein Mude
I. Coro: Liebster Gott, Wenn Werd Ich Sterben?
II. Aria: Was Willst Du Dich, Mein Geist, Entsetzen
III. Recitativo: Zwar Fuhlt Mein Schwaches Herz
IV. Aria: Doch Weichet, Ihr Tollen, Vergeblichen Sorgen!
V. Recitativo: Behalte Nur, O Welt, Das Meine!
VI. Choral: Herrscher Uber Tod Und Leben
I. Coro E Recitativo: Christus, Der Ist Mein Leben
II. Recitativo: Nun, Falsche Welt!
III. Choral: Valet Will Ich Dir Geben
IV. Recitativo: Ach, Konnte Mir Doch Bald So Wohl Geschehn
V. Aria: Tenor Ach, Schlage Doch Bald, Sel'ge Stunde
VI. Recitativo: Bass Denn Ich Weiss Dies
VII. Choral: Weil Du Vom Tod Erstanden Bist

Customer Reviews:

BEST CANTATA 51 SO FAR.......2006-09-30

Malin Hartelius is not as famous as she should be. In a culture that rates singers more by power, singers with exceptional technique and expressive capabilities tend to have a slower acceptance. I discovered her on DVD where she displays acting ability that is also exceptional.
Trumpeter Niklas Eklund in the first and final movements of Cantata 51 is equally great.

Gardiner has a unique ability to choose just the right soloists for all his recordings. This 2000 pilgrimage is no exception. I am a choral singer of the amateur type and use his recordings as a reference for style, as well as enjoyment. Being picked for Cantata 51 is possibly one the best endorsements Hartelius can get.

The singing in all the cantatas on this two CD set is top notch.

I have never before been a fan of the male alto or countertenor voice but this CD and the Alles Mit Gott CD from Gardiner changed my thinking instantly.

The sound quality is superb, especially considering the time constraints the singers and engineers had to work with, in new venues every week. This is quite possibly the most important recording project of all time. The cost of buying the whole series is beyond my means, but I certainly will continue to pick up a few more here and there.

Cantatas on Set by BWV # and name........2005-12-11

This is not really a review but a helpful tool for potential buyers. Listed below are the BWV numbers as well as names of the cantatas contained on this set (since amazon.com only lists by name and not the necessary BWV#).

It is hard to be disappointed by Gardiner's craftsmanship. While some think his tempi on some cantatas to be distasteful, it provides a different approach than other conductors and Bach fellows.

Cantatas on this set:

Liebster Gott, wenn werd' ich sterben?, BWV 8

Wer weiss, wie nahe mir mein Ende, BWV 27

Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen, BWV 51 (SIDE NOTE: Reviewer's All-time favourite Bach Cantata)

Christus, der ist mein Leben, BWV 95

Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan, BWV 99

Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan, BWV 100

Warum betrübst du dich, mein Herz?, BWV 138

Komm, du süsse Todesstunde, BWV 161

What's your favourite Bach cantata?

GLORIOUS BACH CONTINUES.......2005-11-22

This compilation of the Cantatas by J.S. Bach is the second installment of Gardiner's pilgrimage of Bach's Cantatas although in actuality it's numbered Volume 8. As I stated in my review of Volume One of this pilgrimage, I'm enthralled in every way with these recordings. Although, I have a dislike of the countertenor voice, the ones used in this recording are marvelous and easy on the ear. (You "authentic performance" militia can prosecute me. But I DON'T usually enjoy the countertenor voice.) Fortunately (for me), treble unchanged boy's voices are NOT used and the soprano(s) that are used are wonderful delivering their solos beautifully. In fact the featured soloists are all wonderful as is the chorus and orchestra. Gardiner is simply stupendous in his leadership of these works.
Although I've vowed not to get launched on yet another Bach Cantata series, I'm afraid that I'm so besotted by these Gardiner's recordings of Bach's Cantatas that I am indeed launched once again. This series continues to delight in every way!

Volume 8.......2005-10-21

This is actually volume 8 of Gardiner's series of recordings of all of Bach's church cantata's made between Christmas, 1999 and Christmas, 2000. The current Amazon title for the CD doesn't make that clear.

The recording speaks for itself.

Average customer rating:

Perfect starter CD!

America's Choir
Mormon Tabernacle Choir
Manufacturer: Mormon Tabernacle
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Peace Like a River
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Sing, Choirs of Angels!
Songs from America's Heartland

ASIN: B0002CX1LQ
Release Date: 2004-07-13

Tracks:

Fanfare Alleluia/Praise To The Lord, The Almighty
Come, Thou Fount Of Every Blessing
This Is My Father's World
Hallelujah Corus
Fugue In C Major
Come, Come, Ye Saints
O Home Beloved
Come Let Us Anew
Bound For The Promised Land
Shenandoah
Cindy
Danny Boy
Climb Ev'ry Mountain
Battle Hymn Of The Republic
Praise TO The Lord, The Almighty (Reprise)
God Be With You Till We Meet Again

Customer Reviews:

Perfect starter CD!.......2005-02-12

I'm surprised that no one has reviewed this CD yet. Released in conjuction with the Nationally-released PBS documentary "America's Choir" - this album is a perfect starting place for people who wish to have a sampler of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Serving as both a latter-day "greatest hits" and a stand alone album, this CD gathers six tracks from the Choir's recently released albums "Consider The Lilies," "Spirit Of America" and "Peace Like A River" and adds TEN brand new tracks recorded specially for this project, creating a perfect sampler of both the Choir's magnificent history and it's current sound. It highlights the strengths of the Choir's repetoire, from well-known hymns ("Come Thou Fount Of Every Blessing") to patriotic standards ("Battle Hymn Of The Republic") to folk songs ("Shenandoah," "Bound For The Promised Land") and even some surprises, like the traditional Welsh anthem "O Home Beloved" and the "Fugue In C Major (Jig)" for organ and orchestra. A wonderful, wonderful CD, with startling changes in mood and tempo, but with the unifying artistry of the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Sqare.

Average customer rating:

Mostly good
Look at the List of Performers First
this "masterworks" series is available much more cheaply from Amazon France
You heard guy below: Beethoven needs the royality checks!
Buy my box Set!

Beethoven: The Masterworks (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00062FLHE
Release Date: 2004-11-30

Customer Reviews:

Mostly good.......2007-05-26

A bit of a mixed bag. The symphonies are superb. This is one of the great symphony cycles. The piano sonatas are good, very good (analog) sound. The quartets are well recorded indeed, but there are better cycles out there. The rest is OK, and the sound is genrally good.

Look at the List of Performers First.......2006-11-17

If you want most of Beethoven sitting on one bookshelf, this is a great bargain (especially if you shop for it on amazon.de). But few if any of the performances represent the pinnacles of interpretation that most listeners demand when Beethoven is the composer. The symphonies for instance: can Blomstedt be compared to Furtwangler or (if you lean toward historically informed instrumentation) Gardiner? Most amazingly, the artists who perform the quartets -- the heart of Beethoven's music -- are not even named in the listing.
On the other hand: Vivaldi: The Masterworks is a collection including the very best interpreters, such as Fabio Biondi! Bach Edition (complete Bach) is a fabulous selection of recordings made over 20 years, and almost the same praise can be given the Complete Mozart.

this "masterworks" series is available much more cheaply from Amazon France.......2006-05-28

there are several sets in this series and it's much cheaper to buy these from Amazon France.

included are bach, beethoven, vivaldi, brahms, dvorak, schubert, handel, hayden, and mendelssohn.

they're even cheaper than the list price once u go through the checkout (VAT is removed for overseas (out-of-france) purchases).

**also, the 'complete works of mozart' set is much cheaper there (or at Amazon Germany), too. the 'complete works of bach' is due out later this year.

You heard guy below: Beethoven needs the royality checks! .......2006-04-07

There is quality beyond the Austrian green cardboard (which is lovely to look at, to say the least). In fact, the performance of the symphonies (Dresden Staatskapelle and Herbert Blomstedt) is alone worth the price. The Staatskapelle is a solid group, and Blomstedt, although less wellknown, holds his own. It should be mentioned that Blomstedt recorded many of the most celebrated 20th composition CDs on the market, and definitely knows his stuff. Peter Wohlert recorded mostly for compiliation lables, but to be selected by the Berlin Phil shows that he is a formdiable conductor in rank as well.

Should you buy this collection then? Given the fact that each CD cost $1.75, there is definitely the bargin factor. However, Beethoven's music desveres the top interpreters and musicians of our time - and this applies for all of his music, not just the symphonic. If you are into bargins, then proceed to buy this collection. However, if you save up a bit more, you can buy Karajan's 1963 Beethovens symphonies along with Kempff's 1956 sonata cycles for just a bit more than 70 bucks. Shop around for the string quartets, and the complete overtures should range anywhere from 15 to 30 bucks depending on the conductor/ensemble.

Overall, this is certainly an exceptional bargin. However, quality matter more than money. Besides, chicks dig people with sophisticated tastes.

Buy my box Set!.......2006-03-21

Awesome deal, 40 CD box set of me, Beethoven! There are 3 principle reasons you should buy this box set:

This box is QUALITY my friend, made of the finest, Austrian cardboard with a lovely green finish, it is made to last! You can just set it on your dresser and whenever you need a Beethoven fix you can just pull a CD out. But don't you hate getting your CDs out of order so you can't find what the hell you're looking for?! Not with this set! They are well organized into symphonies, concerti, sonatas and such, so you can find EXACTLY what your looking for, and they have big numbers on them so you can put them right back where they belong.

And the music! Need we go into this, composed through the inspiration of God himself and penned by the greatest composer who ever walked the streets of Vienna, me, Beethoven! Top notch, all done by top performers and recorded at high, clear, digital quality, stick one in your stereo and rock out man! All of my great and mighty works are here, absolutely sublime!

Lastly, you'll be supporting me, I need those royalty checks to keep rolling in!

Buy it if you love me or just buy it if you want people to think that you're sophisticated (the chicks also dig it, I should know: Antonie Brentano, giggity!), you can't go wrong!

Track Listings:

Track Listings

track listings

Track Listings

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