Kantorei began in 1997 as a group of 6 friends who got together to sing Christmas carols. The group has grown to a 32-voice mixed ensemble, attracting some of the best vocal talents. From medieval texts to 20th century tonalities, the Christmas journey begins with 'Star in the East,' a suite of 3 dramatic Appalachian carols, accompanied by hammered dulcimer, including 'Rise Up Shepherd,' which was originally published as a slave song in 1867. Herbert Howells' 'Long, Long Ago,' John Paynter's 'The Rose,' a lilting, joyous 'Sing We Now of Christmas,' a lovely soprano solo on 'Some Children See Him,' a fine 'Ding Dong! Merrily On High,' Lauridsen's 'O Magnum Mysterium,' Rutter's sweet 'There Is A Flower,' a moody 'Carol Of The Birds' and Robt. Young's 'There Is No Rose of Such Virtue'­this collection welcomes the diverse spectrum of Christmas sentiment across miles and centuries. Beautiful and recommended.