Concert A Cappella DVDs

African Children's Choir : Still Walking In The Light

Review: The African Children's Choir celebrates its fifteenth anniversary in concert on the DVD Still walking in the Light. This joyful program features the children in bright costumes in energetic dance numbers. Many of the numbers are traditional African songs with drumming accompaniment. The choir is joined by the Young Africans, who are all previous members of the children's choir. If you enjoy their recordings, you will love seeing them in action. This is a tremendously delightful event.

Songlist: Walking in the Light, Full the River, Mwiji Mwena, He is my Light, Highway to Heaven, Crouch Medley, He's the Way, If we ever, Carnival, Earnestly, Noimusanyu, This Little Light of mine, Standing for Heaven, Testify, Reach out and Touch, Holy Ground, He's got the whole World, Little on the Road, O Happy Day

African Children's Choir : Teach Me To Dance

Review: This inspiring 20th anniversary gospel concert at the beatiful Opheum Theare in Vancouver B.C. Is an accumulation of two decades of heartwarming music and performances by the African Children's Choir. Since arriving in Vancouver in September 1984 their incredible journey has taken them around the globe where they have exhilarated audiences everywhere with their message of hope and healing. The performance, featuring 60 current and former members of the African Children's Choir, united today's Choir children with young adults who ere members of the very first Choirs in the mid-1980s. This moving concert, dedicated to South African Children orphaned by AIDs, features traditional gospel favorites performed during the Choir's early years, along with new music from the Choir's most recent CD. It includes "you are the Shepherd," written especially for the Choir by Keith and Kristyn Getty, and "Teach Me To Dance", which brought the audience of 2200 to its feet to participate in the choir's exuberant praise to God.

Songlist: Walking in the light, Come, now is the time, Ndyahimbisa mukama, Somebody, O'sifuni mungu, The Lord be magnified, Pilatek, Take up your cross, Testify to love, Reach out/Lean on me He is my light, You are the shepherd, Lord I lift your name on high, Light of the world, Holy ground, Steal away, Because you loved me, Highway to heaven, Couch medley, Teach me to dance

Alley Cats : Nine Lives

Review: When we first saw the Alley Cats it was giving a "showcase concert" on a small school stage at the A Cappella Summit, singing 4 or 5 songs. What was clear was that these four young guys simply performed sweeter, better-arranged, funnier, more together Doo-Wop than anyone we had ever heard. "9 Lives" (9 "live" performances, get it?) proves that they are even more so now. Their song selection includes our very favorites: "Blue Moon," "Duke of Earl," "Come Go With Me," "Little Darlin'," "La Bamba," "Little Bitty Pretty One," "The Book of Love," "Barbara Ann," plus 3 bonus tracks, including "The Lion Sleeps Tonight," "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" and "Rock N Roll is Here to Stay." The DVD includes cool footage from their appearances on Arsenio Hall and other shows, and begins with live songs from an outdoor California festival, then follows the guys on their ride to Vegas for very hot performances and outtakes there. Alley Cat fans, you of course will buy this DVD because you know that the Cats are "America's Premier Doo-Wop Group." Those unfamiliar with the group, you of course will want to see how good you have to be to bill yourself as "America's Premier Doo-Wop Group," and you won't be disappointed. We love these guys, and "9 Lives" is a treat from beginning to end!

Songlist: A Cappella, Come Go With Me, The Duke Of Earl, Little Bitty Pretty One, Book Of Love, Little Darlin, La Bamba / Twist And Shout, Barbara Ann, Blue Moon, The Lion Sleeps Tonight, Smoke Gets In Your Eyes, Rock 'N Roll Is Here To Stay

Ambassadors of Harmony : Sounds of the Seasons

Review: The Ambassadors of Harmony is a chorus committed to both musical and performing excellence. In July of 2009, under the direction of Jim Henry, they won the International Chorus Championship held in Anaheim California, achieving the highest score ever recorded. This was their second championship win, reclaiming the title they had previously earned in 2004. Now, they are pleased to share with you a video presentation of Sounds of the Season 2009. The Sounds of the Season holiday concerts have become a tradition for many of the more than 8,000 patrons who attend at least one of its five performances in St. Louis, MO each year.

Songlist: Happy Holiday/ The Holiday Season, It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, The Christmas Song, Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow!, Sleigh Ride, The Twelve Days of Christmas, Cool Yule, What Child Is This?, Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer, Beautiful Savior, If You Love Me, Really Love Me (Hymne a L'amour), Seventy Six Trombones, Jingle Bells, Children, Go Where I Send Thee, I Wonder As I Wander, Deck the Halls, Rudolph. The Red Nose Reindeer, El Yivneh Hagalil- "God Will Build Galilee", O Little Town of Bethlehem, I Saw Three Ships, Mary, Did You Know?, Do You Hear What I Hear, Gloria, Alleluia, Little Drummer Boy, Betelehemu, Silent Night

Anuna : Invocations of Ireland

Review: "Invocations of Ireland" features the voices of the Irish choral group Anuna performing the music of Dublin composer Michael McGlynn. This is an elegant and Visually spectacular study of the Irish countryside filmed entirely on location, and includes spiritually resonant lanscapes of Wicklow and the West of Ireland.

Songlist: Whispers of Paradise, Siuil a Ruin, Maid in the Moor, Song of Oisin, Kells, August, From Nowhere to Nowhere, Ave Maria, Ceann Dubh Dilis

Barbershop Harmony Society : Top Choruses 2011 DVD

Review: The Masters of Harmony won gold for the eighth time in Kansas City this year. Silver went to Great Northern Union and bronze to The Northern Lights.

Songlist: Stranger In Paradise, Alabama Jubilee, You Keep Coming Back Like A Song, I Got Rhythm/Farewell,Farewell To Love, The Party's Over, If You Love Me, Really/"On The Street Where You Live /Their Hearts Were Full Of Spring", The Greatest Barbershop Chart, If I Loved You, What Do I Need With Love?, Since I Don't Have You, Rock This Town, Jeanie With The Light Brown Hair, Oh! Look At Me Now, How Deep Is The Ocean?, Put Your Arms Around Me Honey, More Than You Know, Hard Hearted Hannah, When You Look In The Heart Of A Rose, Honey Medley, Aladdin Medley 2, Cross That Mason Dixon Line, Time After Time, Yes Sir, That's My Baby, Oliver Medley, I Had Someone Else Before I Had You/ Who's Sorry Now, The More I See You, I Wan'na Be Like You (The Monkey Song), I Got Rhythm, Come Fly With Me, Goodbye Dixie Goodbye/ When I Return To Dixie, and more

Barbershop Harmony Society : Top Choruses 2013

Review: Toronto, Canada was the host for the 2013 convention which was also the 75th Anniversary of the event. The home group Toronto Northern Lights won gold, Westminster Chorus took silver and the Alexandria Harmonizers won bronze. Let's look forward to another 75 years.

Songlist: Veggie Medley, If I Can Dream, Get Your Happy Days on Medley, All The Things You Are, Anything Goes, You'll Never Walk Alone, Steppin' Out With My Baby, Join The Circus Medley, Smile, Love Letters, When You Wish Upon A Star, I've Got No Strings, Somebody Loves Me, That Lucky Old Sun, New York Medley, The Way, The Sweetheart of Sigma Chi, The Joint is Jumpin, Over The Rainbow, Medley of the Singing Monks, Put Your Head on my Shoulder, Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue, Swanee River, River Stay 'way From My Door, Maybe This Time, As Long As We're Cookin' Medley, Nobody Knows What A Red-Headed Mama Can Do, I'll Be Seeing You, You Tell Me Your Dream, I'll Tell You Mine, Gotta A Lot of Rhythm in my Soul, and more

Benjamin Britten : in Rehearsal and Performance

Review: The acclaimed composer and conductor Benjamin Britten and the CBC Vancouver Chamber Orchestra team up with tenor Peter Pears in a rehearsal and performance of Britten's own "Nocturne for Tenor, 7 Obbligato Instruments & Strings, Op. 60." Britten has been called "The Greatest Musician of the Century" by the New York Times. In Benjamin Britten: In Rehearsal and Performance With Peter Pears, the nocturne, based on works by English poets including Shakespeare, Keats, Wordsworth, and Owen is performed. In this collaboration, Britten and Pears give their musical interpretation of a collection of classic poems

Songlist: Below the Thunders of the Upper Deep, Encinctured With a Twine of Leaves, Midnight's Bell Goes Ting, Ting, Ting, But That Night When on My Bed I Lay, She Sleeps on Soft, Last Breaths, What Is More Gentle Than a Wind in Summe, When Most I Wink, Then Do Mine Eyes Best See, On a Poet's Lips I Slept, Below the Thunders of the Upper Deep, Encinctured With a Twine of Leaves, Midnight's Bell Goes Ting, Ting, Tin, But That Night When on My Bed I Lay, She Sleeps on Soft, Last Breaths, What Is More Gentle Than a Wind in Summer, When Most I Wink, Then Do Mine Eyes Best See, Benjamin Britten Interview

Blenders : Christmas With

Review: The Blenders have been performing a series of very successful Christmas concerts for many years and now we finally have a chance to see for ourselves what makes the shows so popular. Neither all a cappella nor just Christmas songs the concert is nevertheless a real treat for Blenders fans who enjoy their wonderful harmonies and a blend that can only come after many years of singing together. The all a cappella "Hark The Herald Angel Sings" and "I Wonder As I Wander" are particular treats on this enjoyable live performance footage.

Songlist: Opening Credits, Put a Little Love In Your Heart, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, When it Snows, Audience Greetings, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Walkin' In A Winter Wonderland, I Wonder As I Wander, Do You Hear What I Hear, One Small Child / We 3 Kings, Frosty The Snowman, Audience Greeting 2, I Bought You a Plastic Star (For Your Aluminum Tree), Pure Imagination / White Christmas, Lean On Me, All Wrapped Up, Love Train, End Credits

Bobby McFerrin : Beyond Words

Review: Beyond Words traces the personal, musical, and career history of 10-time Grammy Award winner Bobby McFerrin, from his earliest musical inspirations through his vast yet intimate experiences in popular music, jazz, choral, orchestral, and solo performance. See how this consummate musician has traveled along the continuum of the musical world to find himself championing singing and performing - beyond instruments, beyod tradition and Beyond Words. In personal interviews, Bobby reveals the difficulties in finding his calling in life, his personal philosophy on creating, his classical origins, the secrets of collaborating, and the importance of family. Featuring interviews and performances with Robin Williams, Chick Corea, James Levine, Herbie Hancock, Yo-Yo Ma, and more.

Bobby McFerrin : Live In Montreal

Review: Since a cappella pioneer Bobby McFerrin singlehandedly gave the vocal arts a hand up to a whole new level of possibilities in the 1980s with his iconic hit "Don't Worry, Be Happy," we have looked at him and listened to him with awe and gratitude. Experiencing him perform live several times only increased these feelings exponentially, and we had the feeling that everyone in the audience was on exactly the same page. Well, in the early 90s Bobby seems to have picked up on that, and has invited the audience to participate, and included interaction with guest musicians, all improvised. This has cemented his reputation as a marvelous entertainer, and has created a new kind of concert-not a performance, but a "communal sharing and celebration of music." This is exactly what the new DVD "Live in Montreal" is all about. It's beautifully filmed at the "Festival International de Jazz de Montreal," In these 21 video cuts, part of the audience is right up on stage with Bobby, and he improvises and creates musical events with them and members of the main audience. He improvises with a trapeze artist above him, and with a singing viola player. I'll just list some of the cut titles to give you a taste of what happens in this very special DVD: 12. "Improvisation with Richard Bona," 13. "Improvisation, Country Stuff," 13. "Baby," 14. "Improvisation with Tamango "Well You Needn't," 15. "Bwee Do," 16. "Le Grand Choeur de Montreal, It's a Wonderful World," 17. "Circlesong One," 18. "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and 19. "The Wizard of Oz Medley." Bobby is a living a cappella legend, and this live show is creative, funny, touching and simply brilliant. Don't miss this one!

Songlist: Improvisation Style "Little Red Book", Improvisation with the People on Stage, Improvisation with Evelyne Lamontagne on the Trapeze (Extracts from the Opera Carmen), Improvisation with the Audience, Improvisation with Jorane "Riopel", Improvisation "Gonna Move", 'The Jump", "Drive", "Ave Maria', Richard Bona "Dina Lam", Improvisation with Richard Bona, Improvisation "Country Stuff", Baby, Improvisation with Tamango "Well You Needn't", "Bwee Doo", Le Grand Choeur De Montreal "It's A Wonderful World", "Circlesong One", "Somewhere Over The Rainbow", "The Wizard of Oz Medley", Melody from "Sun Concert 5", Sings Walking Off Stage

Bobby McFerrin : Spontaneous Invention

Review: This video was filmed for HBO live at the Aquarius Theatre in Hollywood in 1986, the year McFerrin won a Grammy - when he was at his first peak as a one man jazz band. It is absolutely marvelous to watch the energy and humor of this musical genius interact with an audience. On the CD you can hear "Thinkin' About Your Body" but you don't see the interlude where McFerrin suddenly starts improvising on someone's leather jacket. Watching him create "Bwee-Dop"using audience participation is very different from just hearing it (which is why it didn't make the CD), and there's no substitute for watching him egg on the crowd to do the hand signals in "Itsy Bitsy Spider," On "Fascinating Rhythm," his expressions are priceless as he emulates a 1940s jazz band. And his duet with/accompaniment to soprano saxaphonist Wayne Shorter is all the more astounding as you see the two of them lock eyes and minds. Of the 12 songs here, only four are on the CD. We highly recommend this DVD! 

Songlist: Scrapple From The Apple/honeysuckle Rose, Bwee-Dop, Cara Mia, Fascinatin' Rhythm, Itsy Bitsy Spider, Thinkin About Your Boy, Drive, Opportunity, I Got the Feelin', Walkin, Blackbird, Manana Iguana, Don't Worry, Be Happy (music video), Good lovin (music video)

Bobby McFerrin : Swinging Bach

Review: "Swinging Bach" is a 122 minute documentary of a festival that took place in the old town square of Leipzig, Germany. before a large, appreciative audience (who are standing throughout, are introduced to the groups in both English and German by an attractive pair of emcees, and who get seriously rained on later in the show). Featured are 12 groups of different genres, mostly instrumental, all playing Bach pieces or variations on Bach pieces. The German Brass and the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig, directed by Christian Gansch, are followed by a jazz interpretation of "Fugue No. 5 in D Minor" by the Jacques Loussier Trio, then another Bach Concerto and Fugue by the Leipzig orchestra and the German Brass. Then comes one of our favorite pieces, Bobby McFerrin with the G. Leipzig, doing a wonderful faux (violin?) lead on "Orchestra Suite No. 3 in D Minor," followed by more German Brass, G. Leipzig and some nice pieces by two quintets, the Quintessence Saxophone Quintet and Turtle Island String Quintet. Another of our favorites follows, The King' Singers. with a brilliant a cappella medley of Bach samples, "Deconstructing Johann," with their own very funny added lyrics, which we would like to see written down so we could appreciate them more. Quite a few added features follow, our favorites being "Improvisation on "Wachet auf ruft uns de Stimme," featuring Bobby with the Loussier Trio, and a piece with Bobby and the G. Leipzig where he goes into one of his standard concert improvisational vocal riffs. "Swinging" is an amazing event with some particularly nice work by McFerrin and the King' Singers.

Songlist: Concerto in D Major, BWV 972, 1st Movement, Allegro (German Brass), Orchestra Suite No. 1 in C Major, BWV 1066, Bouree I/II (GewandhausorchesterLeipsig, Christian GanschFugue No. 5 in D Major, BWV 850, from "The Well-Tempered Clavier" (JacquesLoussier Trio), Concerto for 2 Violins in D Minor, BWV 1043, Vivace (GewandhausorchesterLeipzig, Christian Gansch), Toccata and Fugue in D Minor, BWV 565 (German Brass), Orchestra Suite No. 3 in D Major, BWV 1068, Air (Bobby Mferrin,Gewandhausorchester Leipzig), Concerto in D Major, BWV 972, 3rd Movement, Allegro (German Brass), Fudge Fugue in G Minor (Quintessence Saxaphone Quintet), Concerto for 2 Violins in D Minor, BWV 1043, Allegro (GewandhausorchesterLeipzig, Christian Gansch), "Bach's Lunch," Variations on Themes by J.S. Bach (Turtle Island StringQuartet), Snow What (Turtle Island String Quartet), Deconstructing Johann (King's Singers), Improvisation on "Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme" (Bobby McFerrin/JacquesLoussier Trio), Orchestra suite No. 3 in D Major, BWV 1068, Gavotte (Jacques Loussier Trio), "Tocatta & Funk & Choral" (Quintessence Saxophone Quintet), "Seven Steps to Bach" J.S. Bach/Miles Davies (Turtle Island String Quartet), Orchestra Suite No. 2 in B Minor, BWV 1067, Menuet/Badinerie (Jiri Stivin/Gewandhausorchester Leipzig, Christian Gansch), "Jazz Medley," Part A (Jiri Stivin & Collegium Quodlibet), "jazz Medley," Part B (Jiri Stivin & Collegium Quodlibet), "Improvisation" (Bobby McFerrin), Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, BWV 1054, Allegro (Jacques Loussier Trio), Orchestra Suite no. 3 in D Major, BWV 1068, Gigue; End Credits

Bobby McFerrin : Try This At Home

Review: Recorded in front of a live intimate audience at Minneapolis' Walker Arts Center in September 1999, "Try This At Home" features the 10-time grammy Award winner Bobby McFerrin in a version of his renowned solo vocal concert. Entirely improvised, the performance displays Bobby's astonishing vocal virtuosity and musicianship, and his gift for audience interaction. With a comedian's sense of timing, an unrestrained zany streak, and an infectious love of every genre of music, Bobby's solo show is not a 'performance' but a communal sharing and celebration of music.

Songlist: Mysteries, Harmonizin, Try this at home, In the morning, Staccato groove, Opera style, The shirt-scratching song, Head in my bed blues, Folk rap, Walkin' on the beat, Out we go, Ducks, The name song, Calyso sing, More singin

Bobby McFerrin and Chick Corea : Rendezvoux in New York

Review: Two music legends provide an evening of sheer delight as they blend their astonishing talent, passion and creativity. Chick Corea, one of today's most significant and versatile performers, has never lost his sense of exploration about music. Teamed with virtuoso vocalist Bobby McFerrin, whom Corea describes as a "totally unique artist" and "a genius of spontaneous improvisation," the pair's free-spirited performance soars wit exuberance. Captured in High-Definition Video and CD-quality sound, this rare duet concert at New York City's fame Blue Note Jazz Club was one of the highlights of a Grammy winning reunion celebration chronicling Corea's Amazing four-decade career.

Songlist: Improv 1, The Frog, 'Round Midnight, Autumn Leaves, Cocierto De Aranjuez / Spain, Smile

Bobs : The Bobs Sing, and other Love Songs

Review: Feel the love in the room ignite when you play "The Bobs Sing! (and Other Love Songs)" available now on VHS or DVD! Celebrating The Bobs' 20th Anniversary year this is a must for music lovers, audiophiles and fans alike. On VHS you get a one hour PBS TV special, recorded in Cincinnati on February, 2001, followed by a hilarious behind-the-scenes featurette revealing Amy, Joe, Richard and Matthew's wacky spontaneity and the true history behind their 20 years of presenting "a cappella worth singing about!" On the DVD you get all that with both a Stereo or Dolby 5.1 mix of the PBS concert plus nine, new and vintage Bobs songs from performances taped around the world, including: "My I'm Large," "Spray," "Druid Song," "Signs On The Line" and more!

Songlist: Concert Selections (60:00), Unchain My Heart, Mess Me Up Again, Searchin', Fever, You Really Got A Hold on Me, My Husband Was A Weatherman, Banana Love, Bach to Bach, Drive By Love, Johnny's Room, A Cappella Choir in the Sky, Bonus Videos in Chronological Order (32:00), My, I'm Large, 1987, Excerpt from Up'nswutch, 1992, Excerpt from Multiple Choice -- With the Klaus Koenig Jazz Orchestra, 1995, Slow Down Kristina, 1995, Excerpt from Chickens, 1998, The Druid Song, 2000, Spray, 2001, Signs on the Line, 2001, Share a Load, 2001

Chanticleer : Fireside Christmas with

Review: It wouldn't be Christmas without Chanticleer, and this year you can enjoy it beside your own virtual fire. This is not your average Christmas Yule Log. This Yule Log showcases one of the world's leading ensembles performing the pure sounds of music from long ago. Chanticleer's hauntingly beautiful singing captures the true essence and spirit of Christmas past. So forget all that canned Log music, go for the real thing and feel the warmth of your virtual fire throughout the radiant sounds of Grammy award winning Chanticleer. Fireside with Chanticleer features hauntingly beautiful music from their best selling recording Our Heart's Joy.

Songlist: In dulci jubilo, Ave Maria... Virgo serena, Canite tuba in Sion, Quem vidistis pastores?, There is no rose, Nowell, Joseph, lieber Joseph mein, Psallite unigento, Serenissima una noche, El la don don, Riu, Riu chiu, Ave Maria, I wonder as I wander, A hymn to the Virgin, Il est ne le divin enfant, Tomorrow shall be my dancing day, O come, O come, Emmanuel, Silent Night

Chapter 6 : In Concert

Review: We feel like we know these 7 personable young men from the Chicago area very well. 3-time winners of the Chicago Harmony Sweeps Regional beginning in 2000, they have been onstage regularly at the National Finals, finally winning the whole enchilada in 2004. The liner notes for "In Concert" are about as minimal as they can be-some nice small stills from the DVD on the front, and then a listing of the songs on the back. This seemed curious until we realized that the DVD is aimed at people who have seen Chapter 6 in concert or heard one of their 4 excellent CDs, people like us. We don't need breathless prose to convince us about how wonderful the group is, we know that-let's just get this packaging open, and-cool, there's 2 DVDs, one with 17 hits, and the other with behind the scenes footage. It's all here, Stevie's "Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing," Freddie's "Bohemian Rhapsody," "Theme and Variations on It Don't Mean A Thing if It Ain't Got That Swing" (which won Best Arrangement in 2004), "Ode to Krispy Kreme" and the hilarious, brilliant 5-minute "Wizard of Oz" that absolutely won them the Finals and drew them another standing O at the A Cappella Summit that year. Great stuff all the way through, and we have to say, stardom couldn't happen to a nicer bunch of guys!

Songlist: It's About Time, Don't Worry 'Bout A Thing, What A Wondeful World, Pick Up The Pieces, Bohemian Rhapsody, Ode To Krispy Kreme, And They Praised God, And I Raised Cod, It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing), God's Love, The 7th Wheel, How Deep Is Your Love, Lost In Canada, Sweet, Sweet Spirit, Wizard Of Oz, The Rootbeer Song

Choir of Clare College : Celebration of the Spirit

Review: This highly regarded chorus is considered to be one of the top university choirs in England and one can both see and hear why on this well-produced DVD. Filmed in the famous Clare Chapel, the fine performances by the choir makes this video a real treat. Features John Rutter's "Gloria", Britten's "Festival dec deum" and "Rejoice in the Lamb:, Bernstein's "Chichester Palms" with five negro spirituals by Sir Michael Tippet. With 68 tracks and a 2.45 hours running time this DVD is also well priced.

Songlist: Chichester Psalms, Psalm 108, v. 2; Psalm 100, Psalm 2, vv. 1-4; Psalm 23, vv. 1-6, Psalm 131; Psalm 133, v. 1, Gloria, Gloria in Excelesis Deo, Domine Deus, Rex caelestis, Quoniam tu solus sanctus, Festival Te Deum, Rejoice in the Lamb, Six negro Spirituals: Steal away, Nobody knows, Go Down Moses, By and By, Deep River

Choir of Clare College : Christmas Carols

Review: Enjoy this top-notch choir and get in the Christmas mood by both watching and listening to some wonderful singing directed by Timothy Brown. Filmed at St. Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk, England

Songlist: O come, O come Emmanuel, King Jesus hath a Garden, The Holly and the Ivy, Once in Royal David's city, Stille Nacht, Personet Hodie, In Dulci Jubilo, While Shepards Watched their Flocks by Night, O come, all ye Faithfull, Coventry Carol, God rest you Merry, Gentlemen, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Choir of King's College Cambridge : Johannes Passion

Review: Johann Sebastian Bach's Johannes Passion is captured in a live performance at King's College Chapel in Cambridge featuring John Mark Ainsley and Stephen Richardson in the lead, and offering the vocal talents of the King's College Choir, the "College Choir" Cambridge, and the Brandenburg Consort performing under leader Roy Goodman and conductor Stephen Cleobury.

Songlist: Herr, Unser Herrscher, Recitative: Jesus Ging mit Seinen Jungern, O Grosse Lieb, Auf Dass das Wort Erfullet Wurde, Aria (Alto): Von der Stricken Meiner Sunden, Aria (Soprano): Ich Folge Dir Gleichfals mit Freudigen Schritten, Wer Hat Dich So Geschlagen, Aria (Tenor): Ach, Mein Sinn, Petrus, der Nicht Denkt Zuruck, Christus, der Uns Selig Macht, Ach Grosser Konig, Arioso (Tenor): Betrachte, Meine Seele, Durch Dein Gefangnis, Gottes Sohn, Aria (Bass): Eilt, Ihr Angefochtnen Seelen, In Meines Herzens Grunde, Er Nahm Alles Wohl in Acht, Aria (Alto): Es Ist Vollbracht, Aria (Bass): Mein Teurer Heiland, Lass Dich Fragen, O Hilf, Christe, Gottes Sohn, Ruht Wohl, Ihr Heiligen Gebeine, Ach Herr, Lass Dein Lieb Engelein

Choir of King's College, Cambridge : Anthems From King's

Review: The Choir of King's College Cambridge sings some of the best-loved English anthems in the stunning fan-vaulted chapel which is famed throughout the world for its beautiful acoustic. The programme includes some of the most ethereal anthems, while those such as Parry's "I was glad", Stanford's "Coronation Gloria" and Vaughan Williams' "Let all the World" make it the perfect release to coincide with the Queen's Jubilee Celebrations. The candlelit camera work is elegantly done and in this respect the presentation is very dignified and understated, perhaps appropriately reflecting the King's sound. The performances are highly musical with the expected King's polish... Fans of the King's tradition around the world will relish this compilation of 'choral favourites'. Filmed in High Definition with 5.1 surround sound.

Songlist: Hail, gladdening light (Wood), Greater love hath no man (Ireland), I was glad (Parry), Bring us, O Lord God (Harris), And I saw a New Heaven (Bainton), Like as the Hart, Gloria in Excelsis (Stanford), Evening Hymn (Gardiner), Beati quorum via (Stanford), God be in my Head (Walford Davies), Vox dicentis: Clama (Naylor), Faire is the Heaven (Harris), Let all the World (Vaughan Williams)

Choir of King's College, Cambridge : Carols From King's

Review: The world famous Christmas Eve service, presented by the Choir of King's College, Cambridge, is brought to us in a format it was destined to be seen on - DVD. This widescreen BBC presentation is a dazzling display that is sure to be enjoyed by any who appreciate both watching and listening to christmas choral music. Some memoralable moments include the opening boy soprano solo if "One in royal David's city," the big choir sound of "Silent Night," the fast-pased "Riu, Riu Chiu" which is sure to put a smile on your face and the beautiful soothing melody of "I Wonder As I Wander." Also, the finale, "Hark The Herald Angels Sing." Along with the pristine DVD transfer of the service, those who buy this DVD will also be treated to the first televised service, recorded in 1954, as well as giving you the option of viewing only the musical portions of the service, excluding the readings. Also, a booklet detailing the history of the service, lyrics to all songs and a 30 minute conversation between Sir David Wilcox, Sir Philip Ledger and Stephen Cleobury, the three Directors of Music at King's Collefge since 1957. 

Songlist: Once in royal David's city, Quem pastores laudavere, In dulci jubilo, Angels from the realms of glory, In the bleak mid-winter, Quittez, pasteurs, While shepherds watched, Silent Night, The Shepherd's Carol, The Angels and the Shepherds, Riu, riu, chiu, O little town of Bethlehem, The Shepherds' Farewell, I wonder as I wander, Small wonder the star, Sussex Carol, Gloria in excelsis Deo, God rest ye merry gentlemen, Hark! the herald angels sing

Choir of King's College, Cambridge : Carols from King's - 60th Anniversary Edition

Review: Enjoyed in millions of British homes each Christmas eve, Carols from King's is an enchanting hour and a half of choral worship, always beginning with a lone chorister singing Gauntlett's reverent Once in Royal David's City and concluding with the triumphant Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. This DVD release includes the full 2014 service along with an hour-long BBC documentary narrated by Juliet Stevenson detailing the history of this central component of the British Christmas tradition since 1954. The documentary provides insight into the tradition of selecting the soloists, what goes on behind the scenes, what life is like for a chorister in the Choir, and the impact these experiences have on generations of choristers.

Songlist: Once in royal David's city, Up! good Christen folk Piae Cantiones, A tender shoot O Goldschmidt, Sussex Carol, Stille Nacht, In the bleak mid-winter, It came upon the midnight clear, Gabriel's message, A spotless Rose, Joys seven, God rest you merry, gentlemen, Ding! dong! merrily on high, Noel nouvelet, I saw three ships, The Three Kings, A babe is born, God is with us, Hark! the herald-angels sing, Von Himmel hoch

Choir of King's College, Cambridge : The Story of King's College Choir

Review: A visual and musical journey around King's College Chapel in Cambridge, describing its history as well as the life and work of it's world-famous choir.

Songlist: Ave Maria - Parsons, Praise My Soul, The King Of Heaven - Hymn, God Is Our Hope And Strength - P.D., King Henry VI's Prayer - Ley, Miserere - Allegri, Nunc Dimittis - Howells, Fecisti Nos - Radcliffe, Night and Day, Dayton Ohio 1903 - Newman, Plainsong - P.D., Psalm Prelude Op. 32 - Howells, Prelude & Fugue in B - Dupre, Trio in D Minor - Bach

Choirs of Brigham Young University : A Thanksgiving of American Folk Hymns

Review: A Thanksgiving Of American Folk Hymns is a visual feast from the rich tradition of music at Brigham Young University. As the hour long program begins, an early American landscape of colorful leaves and delicate autumn branches gives way to 400 singers and over a hundred instrumentalists joined in song. To see them, through windows of faith, is to hear beloved favorites anew-Shaker hymns, American folk songs, an African-American spiritual, Southern folk hymns and such classics as Abide With me; 'Tis Eventide and The Battle hymn of the Republic. Voices soar, and we see in the faces of fervent young performers a celebration of the gladness and sorrow that has shaped America-an America we have been and hope to be.

Songlist: Saints Bound for Heaven, My Shepherd Will Supply My Need, Simple Gifts, The Morning Trumpet, Come, We That Love the Lord, Wondrous Love, Hark, I Hear the Harps Eternal Southern Folk Hymn, Let Me Fly, Cindy American Folk Song, Bound for the Promised Land, Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee, Redeemer of Israel, Third Symphony, How Can I Keep from Singing, Abide With Me; 'Tis Eventide, Battle Hymn of the Republic, Come, Though Fount of Every Blessing

Chordiac Arrest : The DVD

Review: Those maestros of musical malpractice are at it again! With nonstop bravura this barbershop foursome (who have medaled at International Competitions twice) impersonate pilots, plumbers, and of course, physicians, with the attendant pantomime and props. Songs such as "We Do Make A Barrel Of Money," " Ben Casey, Won't You Please Come Home" and "In My Neat Little Hospital Gown" are send-ups of familiar tunes. Relentless humor - some ribald - and even a touch of burlesque can-can has the audience in "stitches"! Dedicated to bass George Peters, whose recent throat surgery sadly brought his performing career to a close, this video is your prescription for fun!

Songlist: Forgive Me, I Didn't Mean To Make You Die, Huggin' And Chalkin', When It's Darkeness On A Delta, Flight Five-Oh-Two, Where Are You?, Check Your Luggage In And Whisper 'So Long Dearie', That's The Worst Jello I've Had Since Last July, Doin' The New Routine, Hug Your Plumber Today, What Takes The Place Of My Heart When It's Gone?, (The Gang That Sang) Part Of My Heart, We Do make A Barrel Of Money, Ben Casey, Won't You Please Come Home, Nothin' Could Be Finah Than A Little Old Angina In The Morning, I See Bones, I See Gizzards And Bones, (Hospital Small Talk), In My Neat Little Hospital Gown, (The Operation)

Concordia Choir : Journey to Bethlehem

Review: The re-imagined Christmas story takes viewers and audience members on a musical "Journey to Bethlehem," combining the pageantry of opera and the grandeur of choral orchestral masterworks. Composer Dr. Rene Clausen weaves sonorous and celebratory Christmas music throughout the concert.

Songlist: There Is No Rose of Such Virtue, E'n So Lord Jesus, Quickly Come, Do You Hear What I Hear?, Silent Night, Sanctus, Betelehemu, Mannerchor, Estampie Natalis, Veni Sancte Spiritus, I Wonder As I Wander, Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness, Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing, Praise To The Lord, Stay With Us, Compline

Concordia Choir : O Come All Ye Faithful

Review: With almost 20,000 attendees at their annual Christmas series of concerts and the airing on PBS television and radio stations across the nation has certainly made the Concordia Choir a great Christmas tradition for many. The 400 voices celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with some spectacular arrangements including "Gesu Bambino" and the title track "O Come All Ye Faithful". Two new compositions by director Rene Clausen, who has over the 26 years he has been directing the choir become world-renown, are superb. Always top-notch this choir continues to build upon it's already excellent reputation.

Songlist: Fantasia On O Come, O Come Emmanuel, Watchman, Tell Us Of The Night, O Come Al Ye Faithful, Gesu Bambino, Advent Motet, People Look East, There Is No Rose, Lo, How A Rose E'Er Blooming, ary's Wonder, Lux Aurumque, He IS Born, Jesus Jesus Rest Your Head, Sanctus (From Mass), Hodie Christus Natus Est, Mary Had A Baby, O Day Full Of Grace, Carol Of The Drum, We Three Kings Of Orient Are, Mothering God, You Gave Me Birth, Ring Out Ye Crystal Spheres From Hodie, Compline

Concordia Choir : O Holy Night

Review: On the cover of "O Holy Night" we see an awesome giant Christmas mural, with the huge Concordia Choir in front of it, and The Concordia Orchestra in the foreground. This massive Christmas celebration has been an annual event for many years, and it just keeps getting bigger and better. 24 songs, with spoken parts, all accompanied, some familiar ("Angels We Have Heard On High," "O Holy Night," "Joy to the World"), some unfamiliar ( "Of the Father's Love Begotten," "Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah," "Calm on the Listening Ear of Night"), but together in sequence they magnificently tell the Christmas story. "O Holy Night" is a triumph, one of the best of the year!

Songlist: Prelude On How Brightly Shines the Morning Star (J. Robert Hanson), Of the Father's Love Begotten, Angels We Have Heard On High (arr. Rene Clausen), O Holy Night (arr. Rene Clausen), There Is No Rose of Such Virtue (Christopher Brown), Light Everlasting (Oloaf Christiansen), Lost In the Night (arr. F. Melius Christiansen), Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (arr. Wayne Wold), Vene Sanctus Spiritus (Jacques Berthier), All My Heart This Night Rejoices (arr. Ralph Johnson), Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day (arr. John Rutter), He Is Born (arr. Donna Gartman Schultz), Before the Marvel of this Night (arr. Carl Schalk), Good Christian Friends, Rejoice! (arr. Paul Nesheim), Calm On the Listening Ear of Night (Kenneth Jennings), Twelfth Night (Samuel Barber), How Great Our Joy (arr. John Rutter), Nowell Sing We, Both All and Some (Raymond Monelle), Infant Holy, Infant Lowly (arr. Paul J. Christiansen), Sussex Carol (arr. Philip M. Young), Jeg er saa glad (arr. Paul Nesheim), Go, Tell It On the Mountain (arr. Carolyn Jennings), Psalm 150 (Alberto Ginstera), Joy To the World (arr. Charles Fosberg), Comline (arr. Rene Clausen)

Counterpoint : Choral Excursion

Review: The Choral Excellence Series has joined legendary choral conductor and arranger Robert De Cormier to produce a A Choral Excursion, featuring his professional vocal ensemble Counterpoint and instrumentalists from across the United States and South America. They will be a wonderful inspiration for your ensembles and great entertainment for anyone who loves choral music. The program is made up of Twentieth Century music from around the world. If you are a teacher needing an activity for a substitute to use, this is a worthwhile way for your singers to spend a class period!

Songlist: Choruses From The Lark, - Prelude, - Benedictus, - Spring Song, - Sanctus, - Court Song, - Soldier's song, - Requiem and Gloria, Romancero Gitano, Baladilla de los Tres Rios, La Guitarra, The Procession of the Virgin, Pricesion - Paco - Saeta, Memento, Baile, Crotalo, Missa Criolla

Counterpoint : Counterpoint Christmas DVD

Review: The Choral Excellence Series has joined legendary choral conductor and arranger Robert De Cormier to produce a A Counterpoint Christmas -- a fanciful journey around the world during the holiday season. Selections include familiar and less-familiar melodies and carols from around the world ending with the splendid suite of Argentinean Carols, Navidad Nuestra, by Ariel Ramirez. This beautifully-produced DVD will put you in the spirit of the season while presenting a unique collection of exciting Christmas music. If you are looking for something new this holiday season, a Counterpoint Christmas will be a great selection. If you are a teacher needing an activity for a substitute to use, this is a worthwhile way for your singers to spend a class period!

Songlist: One Horse Open Sleigh, Ritsch, Ratsch, Filbom, Christmas In The Southwest, Oh, Mi Belen!, El Desembre Congelat, Alegria, A La Nanita Nana, Las Posadas, Campana sobre Campana, El Belen Tocan a Fuego, El Noi de la Mare, Chiquirrquitin, El Rorro, Away In A Manger, The Wealden Trio, The Souling Song, Navidad Nuestra, Betelehemu

Ensemble Amarcord : Book of Madrigals

Review: The secular repertory of the Renaissance seems made to order for the five singers of amarcord. In the incomparable setting of the Villa Godi in northern Italy, the group recorded some of the bestknown and most beautiful madrigals of the 16th century, creating a bridge to the present day. Fiery declarations of love and the deep pain of parting, erotic innuendoes and bawdy humor in the interpretations of this prizewinning ensemble, the texts always seem contemporary and relevant. The members of amarcord are accompanied by the exceptional instrumentalists Hille Perl (viola da gamba) and Lee Santana (theorbo), as well as the virtuoso percussionist Michael Metzler.

Songlist: Come away, come, sweet love, Chi la gagliarda, Rallegratevi meco, Ben qui si mostra il ciel, Vagh' amorosi, Cucu, cucu, cucucu, Tarantella del Gargani, Toutes les nuitz, Io tacero - In van dunque, Quand je bois du vin clairet, Lucia, celu, La tricotea, Oh ecco il Capitano, Anchor ch'al parturire, Une puce j'ay dedans l'oreille, Cosi morir debb'io, Come again, sweet love doth now invite, Vecchie letrose, Triste depart, Dura legge d'amor - E so come in un puntor, Im Mayen hort man die Hanan krayen, Scaramella va alla guerra

Ernie Haase & Signature Sound : A Tribute to the Cathedral Quartet

Review: In their latest release, A Tribute to the Cathedral Quartet, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound give new appreciation to some of the greatest quartet favorites ever written and honor the songs and legacy of the quartet that inspired their own genesis as a group. Keeping the Cathedral style in mind, while adding the flavor you've come to expect from Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, this collection is a must have for for all Cathedral and EH&SS fans alike!

Songlist: An Old Convention Song, Boundless Love, Champion of Love, God Delivers Again, I Thirst, I'm Gonna Live Forever, Mexico, Moving Up To Gloryland, Step Into The Water, The Ole House, We Shall See Jesus, Wedding Music, Yesterday

Fisk Jubilee Singers : Sacred Journey

Review: Nashville, TN's Fisk University's legendary Jubilee Singers, founded by school treasurer and music lover George White, led his group of former slaves on a tour that followed the Civil War's Underground Railroad in an effort to save the school, originally called the Fisk Free Colored School, from financial ruin. The group finally found some success in Ohio, then created a sensation with their spiritual "secret slave songs" in New York City, beginning a tour of Britain and Europe that saved the school and built beautiful new campus buildings. "Sacred Journey" is a 2-disk live CD recorded on the group's 2006-7 trip to Ghana, Africa, where they sang in the courtyard of notorious Elmina Castle, a key link in the slave trade. Robert Swope said of the concert, "This ensemble, through the sheer love of its' performance, brought the glory of His forgiveness to the walls of Elmina Castle and allowed His grace to forgive what, for hundreds of years, was a place torn by human degradation." Twelve powerful songs, recorded live and without overdub or re-record in any way: "I Thank You, Jesus," "Our Father," "Didn't My Lord," "Kekeli Tso Kekili Me," "We Shall Walk Through the Valley in Peace," "Here is On," "My Soul's Been Anchored in the Lord," "An' I Cry," "Mister Banjo," "Sweet Home," "Mawu nye lolo" and "Ride the Chariot." Don't miss this remarkable, profound concert, that brought joy and healing light to the heart of darkness!

Songlist: I Thank You Jesus, Our Father, Didn't My Lord, Kekeli Tso Kekeli Me, We Shall Walk Through The Valley In Peace, Here Is On, My Soul's Been Anchored in the Lord, An' I Cry, Mister Banjo, Sweet Home, Mawu Nye Lolo, Ride the Chariot

Forever Plaid : Forever Plaid

Review: Based upon the stage production of the same name, this DVD is equal parts silly schtick and a musically adept and professional parody of the close harmony groups of the 1950's - Freshmen, Hi-Lo's and the like. Romantic themes dominate-"Three Coins In A Fountain, "Love Is A Many Splendored Thing," 'Cry,"-with a "Caribbean Medley" and "Scotland The Brave" (a homily to Plaid) for yukks. The style is unapologetically sentimental and deliberately cliched, but will be good fun for those who are familiar with the colloquialisms typical of the period. A good portion of the dialogue is included to introduce the songs and explain the plot.

Songlist: Three Coins In The Fountain, Gotta' Be This Or That/ Undecided, Moments To Remember, Crazy 'Bout Ya' Baby, No Not Much, Perfida, Cry, Sixteen Tons/ Chain Gang, A Tribute to Mr. C/ SIng to Me Mr. C/ Dream Along with Me/ Catch a Falling Star, Caribbean Plaid/ Kingston Market/ Jamaica Farewell/ Matilda, Matilda, Heart and Soul, Lady of Spain, Scotland the Brave, Shangri-La/ Rags to Riches, Love Is A Many/ Splendored Thing, Once Upon a Time, Deux Ex Plaid, The End

Four Freshmen : Easy Street DVD

Review: "Easy Street" is a rare treat, an opportunity to see the Four Freshmen (Bob Flanigan, Ken Albers and the Barbour brothers, Don and Ross) in their prime, in a live (black and white) performance on the Ray Anthony show in 1956! Featured are 21 of the 4F's favorite pop hits: "Day By Day," "You're So Far Above Me," "Charmaine," "Got A Date With an Angel," The Day Isn't Long Enough," "How Do You Like Your Eggs in the Morning," "Someone Like You," "Graduation Day," "There'll Never Be Another You," the title tune, and our personal favorite, "It's a Blue World." The four play their own instruments, or act in little skits, singing "You Stepped Out of a Dream" to a librarian who tries to keep her composure, for instance. It's a corny 1956 variety show, the Four Freshmen are singing with their bright, fresh sound and ringing harmonies, and we've got a front-row seat!"

Songlist: Day By Day, You're So Far Above Me, Love Is Just Around the Corner, You Stepped Out of a Dream, Charmaine, Got a Date with an Angel, Easy Street, After You've Gone, Somebody Loves Me, It's a Blue World, He Who Loves and Runs Away, Crazy Bones, The Day Isn't Long Enough, How Do You Like Your Eggs in the Morning?, Someone Like You, We'll Be Together Again, This Can't Be Love, Graduation Day, Frosty the Snowman, Love Turns Winter to Spring, There'll Never Be Another You

Go Fish : Kickin' It Old School

Review: Jamie, Andy and Jason, "The Go Fish Guys" have the mission to create "Great Music for Kids That Won't Drive Parents Bonkers," and they have six excellent Contemporary Christian albums and two wonderful live DVDs in the Primarily A Cappella catalog at Singers.com. The Guys use synthesizers, sampling and hip electronic effects and cutting edge arrangements to reinvent and teach classic hymns to a whole new generation of children, songs such as "Sweet Song Of Salvation/I Love to Tell the Story," "This Is My Father's World," "Blessed Assurance," "I'll Fly Away," and "The Old Rugged Cross." There are also new tunes with the same themes, the title tune, "I'm a Soldier in the Army of the Lord," "Before the Throne of God Above," the Blues/Rock "Shelter in A Time of Storm" and "The Solid Rock" featuring Denver and the Mile High Orchestra. Often accompanied, these three guys have once again created an album full, rich, joyous, inspirational sound that children and adults will surely love!

Songlist: Kickin' It Old School, Sweet Song of Salvation/ I Love To Tell The Story, I'm A Soldier In The Army Of The Lord, This Is My Father's World, Blessed Assurance, Before The Throne Of God Above, I'll Fly Away, Shelter In A Time Of Storm, The Solid Rock, The Old Rugged Cross

Go Fish : Let's Sing

Review: This DVD contains 10 brand new videos featuring songs from the critically acclaimed Go Fish albums Snazzy, Superstar, and Splash! The videos feature concert footage, animation, choreography, and lyrics right on the screen. Crank up the volume and watch your living room, mini-van, or church transform into an instant party! Not only will your kids love the videos, but they'll also learn the books of the Bible, the ten commandments, and what it means to be saved by grace through faith. If you're looking for a great kids DVD that won't drive you bonkers, then introduce your family to Go Fish today!

Songlist: Superstar, Lord I Lift Your Name On High, The Bible Book Bop, Stories, The Ten Commandment Boogie, B-I-B-L-E (Backstage Remix), Jesus Loves Me, Saved, I've Got The Joy, That Acappella Sound

Go Fish : Showtime

Review: Go Fish, one of our favorite Contemporary Christian groups, is an a cappella trio comprised of 3 young men, 2 of them fathers, who have toured across the country and sold over 500,000 albums. Jamie, Jason and Andy, those "Go Fish Guys," possibly because of their experiences with parenthood, have directed their ministry at children and their parents, with joyous results. Their CDs "Splash," "Superstar, the recently released "Snooze" and this new DVD, "Showtime" are all winners. "Showtime" features songs from "Splash" and "Superstar," and it is performed before (and with) an adoring, excited audience of kids and their parents. Interspersed with songs and silliness at the local county fair, the guys perform "Superstar," "I've Got the Joy," "The Crazy Dance," "The Ten Commandment Boogie," "This Little Light of Mine" and "That Acappella Sound." "Showtime" is advertised as "Great music for kids that won't drive their parents bonkers!"-indeed, far from it, people of all ages in the audience are up, dancing and singing along. Learning about Jesus and the teachings of the Bible becomes a celebration here, and everybody's included. Go, Fish!

Songlist: Go Fish Theme, Superstar, The Fair!, Jason's Pigs, I've Got The Joy, Jamie's Cow, Crazy Dance, Ten Commandments Boogie, Andy's Sheep, Dr. Atom, Why The Name, This Little Light, See You Next Time!, Bonus Material, Go Fish Bloopers, Promo video

Happiness Emporium : Double Feature

Review: Formed in 1972, the Minneapolis/St. Paul-based Emporium won the championship after only three years in the running. These two performances were recorded with seven cameras by PBS in Charleston, North Carolina, and also at the World Theater, home of Minnesota's other famous export, the "Prairie Home Companion." Well, on with the show - aside from wonderful barbershop harmony, the four gents couldn't be more endearing, with corny jokes and schtick aplenty. Songs such as "I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing" and "Hard To Be Humble" - the latter an audience participation event - will have you smiling. "I Never Knew You" is the evening's tender moment. Running time over 60 minutes.

Songlist: Harmonizin' Medley, Give My Regards To Broadway, Durante Medley, You're a Grand Old Flag, Minnesnowta, Swanee, Brothers, Control Yourself, Easter Parade, That's Entertainment, I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing, Hard To Be Humble, I Never Knew You, And many more..

Hilliard Ensemble : Arvo Part - St. John Passion

Review: Arvo Part's contemporary sacred work, St. John Passion, is sung in Latin and recalls the purity and timelessness of the great musical passions of the seventeenth century. Recorded from Durham's magnificent medieval cathedral, the performance features the Hilliard Ensemble and the Western Wind Choir, conducted by Paul Hillier. The solo parts are sung by John Potter (Pilate), Michael George (Christ), Mary Seers, David James, Roger Covey-Crump and Gordon Jones (The Evangelist Quartet). A short introduction precedes the work.

Songlist: 1.Opening credits, 2.Introduction, 3.Passio Domini nostri, 4.Haec cum dixisset Jesus, 5.Quem quaeritis?, 6.Stabat autem et Judas, 7Quem quaeritis?7, 8.Ut impleretur sermo, 9.Mitte gladium tuum in vaginam, 10.Cohors ergo, et tribunus, 11.Erat autem Caiphas, 12.Dixit ergo Petro ancilla ostiaria, 13.Stabant autem servi, 14.Ego palam locutus sum mundo, 15.Haec autem cum dixisset, 16. Erat autem Simon Petrus stans, 17.Adducunt ergo Jesum a Caipha, 18.Quam accusationem affertis, 19. Introivit ergo iterum in praetorium Pilatus, 20.Regnum meum non est de hoc mundo, 21.Tu dicis quia Rex sum ego, 22.Et cum hoc dixisset, iterum exivit ad Judaeous, 23. Tunc ergo apprehendit Pilatus Jesum, 24.Exivit ergo iterum Pilatus foras, 25.Cum ergo vidissent eum Pontifices, 26.Cum ergo audisset Pilatus hunc sermonem, 27. Non haberes potestatem adversum me ullam, 28.Et exinde quaerebat Pilatus dimittere eum, 29.Erat autem parasceve Paschae, 30.Et baiulans sibi crucem exivit in eum, and more

Howard Goodall's Choral Works : Choirs Perform

Review: Driven by the infectious enthusiasm of zany writer and presenter Howard Goodall, we travel to locations around the world to focus on people, their lives, individual traditions, customs and histories. The four programs set out to show how singing in groups is fundamental to the way communities express themselves. From the joyous sounds of South Africa, thro Nashville, USA, and Bulgaria, to the traditional cathedral choirs of England, the series gives a refreshing overview of some of the vastly different choral traditions of the world today. This performance special showcases seven of the world's leading choirs and their contrasting choral traditions. The rich and haunting harmonies of South African Iscathimiya - a call and response style - are performed here by Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Christ Church Cathedral Choir in Oxford and Salisbury Cathedral Girls Choir, both stalwarts of English church music, perform works by Byrd, Stanford and Bruckner. The keening, yearning tone of Bulgaria's throaty Cosmic Voices is contrasted with the joyous and heartfelt gospel of Just Us and The Temple Church Choirs in Nashville, and the clarity and purity of The Academic Female Choir of Tartu University's nationalistic folk songs in Estonia. The variety in each choir's repertory is complemented by their striking costumes.

ISO/BOBS : The Lonesome Pine Special

Review: Finally released on DVD the award-winning PBS "Lonesome Pine Special" (part of the Great Performances Series) pairing modern dance company ISO with the Bobs. This well-produced show, filmed and edited in a creative, imaginative, and certainly highly entertaining way. Originaly broadcast in 1990 the DVD features the original Bobs line up and is a must for all Bobs fans. Includes "Pounded On A Rock," "My Shoes," "Welcome To My Fog," "Psychokiller" (with amazing choreography), "Temptation," more.

Songlist: The Lonesome Pine, Psychokiller, Pounded on a Rock, I Scare Myself, Through The Wall, Temptation, You Can't Do That, Rug Dance, Welcome to My Fog, Purple Haze, Share A Load, My Shoes

John Tavener : Fall and Resurrection

Review: The World Premiere performance of Sir John Tavener's epic work written for the new Millennium, recorded in St Paul's Cathedral, London, in January 2000. The composer makes full use of the remarkable acoustic of St Paul's, presented here in breathtaking 5.1 Surround Sound.

Songlist: Introduction and Interview with Sir John Tavener, Titles: Fall and Resurrection, Part I; Silence, Darkness; In the Beginning, Before Time, Representation of Chaos, Paradise, The Serpent, Catastrophe: The Implications of the Fall, Adam's Lament, Part II: Prediction, Part III: The Incarnation of the Logos, Cosmic Dance of the Resurrection: All Is Transfigured, The Eye of the Heart: Sir John Tavener talks about his beliefs and music

King Family : Christmas With The King Family

Review: Throughout the '60s and '70s, Christmas just wasn't Christmas without the King Family's classic holiday TV specials. In celebration of the 45th anniversary of their television debut, join the Kings as they take a heartwarming and song-filled look back at their classic Christmas specials in this all-new holiday TV event. In clips unseen for nearly three decades (now digitally remastered), The Kings perform a cavalcade of classic showstoppers, while sharing personal, behind-the- scenes memories in contemporary interviews featuring King Sisters Yvonne King and Marilyn King, Tina Cole and King Cousins Cathy, Candy, Ric, Jamie & Xan along with Cam Clarke (anime star and voice of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' "Leonardo") and King Kids Laurette and Susannah. And as a special bonus, this DVD features the King Family's classic 1967 special in its entirety, which includes one of their best remembered TV moments-the surprise Vietnam- era, on- camera reunion of King Sister Alyce with her son Ric, who'd been away on military service. This holiday season make Christmas a family affair with this retro TV holiday delight-as seen on public television!

Songlist: Caroling Caroling/Come Dear Children, White Christmas, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O Come All Ye Faithful, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, Joy to the World, The Holiday of Love, Silent Night, Hear the Sledges with the Bells, The Little Drummer Boy, The Star Carol/O Little Town of Bethlehem, What Child is This?, Some Children See Him, Jolly Old St. Nicholas/Jingle Bells, The First Noel, Auld Lang Syne, We Wish You A Merry Christmas, Sleigh Ride, The Holiday of Love, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas/Santa Clause is Comin' to Town, The Christmas Song/The Christmas Waltz, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Do You Hear What I Hear?, Carol of the Bells, We'll Dress the House, Some Children See Him, A Soalin'/God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Sleigh Ride, Children Go Where I Send Thee, Do You Hear What I Hear, and more

King's Heralds : Jerry's Farewell

Review: Join the King's Heralds as they celebrate second tenor Jerry Patton's exceptional thirty-seven year career. Special guests include first tenors Bob Edwards and John Ramsey; baritones Wayne Hooper, Jack Veazy and Steve Laing; and Basses Jerry Dill and Jim McClintock. Also included is a rare special appearance by contralto Del Deker. Enjoy not only the regular repertoire of rousing spirituals, hymn classics of the faith and the latest contemporary Christian sounds, but also renditions from former members of the quartet along with Don Scroggs, Russell Hosepedales and Jim Ayars; as the King's Heralds honor Jerry and his legendary career in Gospel music.

Songlist: Lord Of All, Take A Little Time To Talk To The Lord, On The Jericho Road, Kum Ba Ya, Sit Down Servant, Cooperation, Only A Boy Named David, Dry Bones, City Of Light, Sweet, Sweet Spirit, Lift Up The Trumpet (Ndebele), Master Designer, Milky White Way, New Life, Calm of the Drum, Daystar (Shine Down On Me), The Wonder Of It All, Good News, Chariots a Comin'

King's Singers : Live at the BBC Proms

Review: The King's Singers celebrated their 40-year anniversary in 2008 with a live BBC Proms performance from the Royal Albert Hall. This disc demonstrates the skill, flair, versatility and on stage charm you would come to expect from a King's Singers performance, sampling the best from their vast repertoire. The King's Singers have maintained their place at the apex of a cappella singing and are amongst the world's elite classical performers. This disc also includes interviews with the members, a glimpse into the King's Singers' past, and a special audition for the group! Reviewing this concert, The Daily Telegraph said "every edge was bevelled smooth", and the Guardian described it as "flawlessly realized".

Songlist: La bell' si nous etions, La belle se sied au pied de la tour, Clic, clac, dansez sabots, Pilons l'orge, Ah! Mon beau laboureur, Les Tisserands, Scenes in America Deserta, Dessus le marche d'Arras, ll est bel et bon, Toutes les nuitz, La Guerre, Hears not my Phyllis, Phillis is my only joy, The Little Green Lane, The Goslings, Greensleeves, Blow Away the Morning Dew, The Turtle Dove, Widdicombe Fair, The Long Day Closes

King's Singers : Madrigal Mystery Tour

Review: The reputation of the outstandingly accomplished King's Singers ensemble is firmly established throughout Europe and America. They have become well-known for the excellence of their singing and for their unique and wide-ranging repertoire that encompasses all kinds of music from the Beatles to Bach. In this 6-part Madrigal History Tour the King's Singers vocal ensemble travels through Germany, Spain, France, England and Italy to perform a varied selection of madrigals in the settings which first inspired their composition in the Golden Age of the sixteenth century. An introductory documentary looks at the origins of the madrigal in Italy and traces its development throughout Europe to become the musical rage of the High Renaissance. The six King's Singers - Jeremy Jackman, Colin Mason, Alastair Hume, Simon Carrington, Bill Ives and Anthony Holt - introduce all these programmes, with the series Musical Adviser, Anthony Rooley, a leading exponent of Early Music, contributing his expert observation.

Kinsey Sicks : I Wanna Be A Republican

Review: In their first live concert film The Kinsey Sicks reveal the shocking news: they have gone Republican. In this mock GOP fundraiser, Rachel, Winnie, Trixie and Trampolina, the four gifted singers and comedians who comprise the quartet, defend their conversion to conservatism. They sing - literally! - the praises of corruption, tokenism, greed and all things nuclear (both families and bombs). The film, shot over two nights with five high definition cameras at the Broadway Studios in San Francisco, captures the final performances of the live, touring version of the Kinseys' I WANNA BE A REPUBLICAN stage show which they developed during the 2004 election season. Touring for over a year nationally, as well as in Canada and Mexico, "Republican" was performed not only in major cities, but also in small towns and red states -- to wildly appreciative audiences. A cappella has rarely been funnier!