It's a heartwarming story, Ray Barnett's trip to Uganda to try to do something about the thousands of orphans dying of starvation in a bloody civil war. Much prayer and help from church groups later, the first ACC was selected and brought back to the US. Thus the world got to see actual beautiful, bright, singing African children, which in turn has led to thousands being helped and saved. In "Village" we are delighted by the smiling voices of these remarkable children on 25 lightly accompanied traditional African folk songs, and African-American spirituals. Traditional African songs like "Parapanda," "Abataka," "Jabulani Africa," "Mujje," "Ensi Zonna," "Bolingo" and "Kinakyo" blend well with songs in English like "From a Distance," "It Takes A Whole Village," "Because You Loved Me," "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" and "Seed to Sow." In case we haven't been clear, we'll just come out and say it: this is a feel-good CD, from the buying of it (which supports the ACC's good work), to the reading about these kids on the liner notes, to listening to every cut of this wonderful music! Songlist

It was 1984 and Ray Barnett heard a news report from Africa that told of how thousands of orphans were dying in a bloody civil war in Uganda. Sickened by the images of famine and tragedy, Ray formed the African Children's Choir to show the world how bright and beautiful African children are. Money was raised from churches to go to Uganda, select and bring out the first ACC. Each year a new group is selected, while the former members go back to Africa to receive care and a good education. This CD is from a live concert on January 14th, 2000, which marked the 15th anniversary of the Choir and once again highlighted the joy, enthusiasm, energy and optimism of this remarkable group of children. There are colorful, fold-out liner notes that have exuberant pictures of these beautiful, smiling-as-they-sing children to go with the celebration on the CD. 19 songs, most lightly accompanied by a small orchestra of keyboards, bass, guitar, drums, horns, flute and oboe. These are largely traditional spirituals and gospel songs, joyfully and beautifully sung: "Walking in the Light," "Full the River," "Mwiji Mwena," "He is my Light"æeach is a little rhythmic anthem. "This Little Light of Mine" sums up the concert, as the ACC truly lets it shine! Songlist

"Windows On The World" is a dynamic new musical, featuring an international cast, and the voices of Jodi Benson, the African Children's Choir and guests from around the globe. 13 songs, all accompanied: "He Is My Light," "Driftin'," the sweet ballad "Good News," "O Most High," "Journey Home (Song for the East)," "Standing for Heaven," "Let the Little Children Come," "How Good It Is," "You Are The Shepherd," "Hallelujah," "The Lord's Prayer," "There Is Hope" and "He's Got The Whole World In His Hands." The brightly-clad young ACC sing as brightly and spiritually as they look in the colorful liner notes. Joyous and inspirational! Songlist

For 20 years, the African Children's Choir has astounded audiences everywhere with not only their beautiful sounds and moving stories but with the power and energy that accompanies each song. This recording is no exception. Filled with lively praise songs and gospel tunes, Devotion, lets this chorus shine. While all the performances are great, the simple traditional African songs accompanied by drums are truly highlights of this CD. For fans of the African Children's Choir, Devotion is a must have.

We love the pictures of these beautiful African children, the story behind the group's formationby Ray Barnett, and all the good the group's success has accomplished. "Because" is the fourth CD in our catalog, and we like them all. All accompanied, the emphasis remains on the bright, spirited voices of the children. 12 mostly Christian/spiritual songs: "Lord Be Magnified," "Shine, Jesus, Shine," "Seed To Sow," "How Good It Is," the title tune, the traditional spiritual "Steal Away," "Reach Out/Lean On Me," "Betelehemu," "From A Distance," "Take Up Your Cross," "Highway To Heaven" and "O Happy Day." A feel-good CD from start to finish!

Friends in the West International, sponsors of East Africa's African Outreach Academy, have a new CD by the African Children's Choir, and a new Christmas musical (which we are encouraged to perform in our communities to raise money for African children), The First African Christmas, songs from which are the first 8 tunes: the reggae-flavored 'Message for Africa,' 'God's promise from long ago,' 'The Wise Men rap, ' 'The gifts,' 'Shepherd's carol,' 'Philip's song,' 'Gift for the King,' and the music from 'Gift for you to sing.' Following are 6 more Christmas tunes, the a cappella 'Betelehemu,' 'Go tell it on the mountain,' 'Have you any room for Jesus?', 'Bed of straw', 'Drummer boy' and 'Silent Night.' Most songs are accompanied. New energy and spirit for a timeless story from a talented Choir.

The 34-strong, Johannesburg, South Africa-based Alexandra Youth Choir, directed by Mike Mncube (who does a lot of the group's arrangements), was called Realogile School Choir when it was formed in 1988. Usually AYCC performs a cappella, dancing and stamping their feet to give an extra kick to the performance. On "South African Choral" there is non-vocal percussion on several of the 20 cuts, and guitar, piano and sax on 3 cuts. Such instrumentation simply adds spice to the powerful, joyous, repetitive rhythms that course through this CD. "Uyamemeza," the traditional Xhosa song "Kunothixo Omkhulu," the traditional Zulu song "Iphi Imbiza Namhlanje," the traditional greeting song "Dumelang," the sweet spiritual "I Want to See," the Zulu song "Toffolux"Éthis is feel-good, revival meeting-type stuff. Recommended!

The young women of the Junior Amabile Singers, one of 7 choirs in the Amabile Choirs of London, Canada, are joined in this exploration of the hopes, desires and human experiences of today's young women by the Amabile Da Capo Choir, a training choir for the JAS. Artistic directors Jacquelyn Norman and Wendy Gee conduct them in this rich collection of 23 lightly accompanied songs. Favorites are the title tune, whose lyrics are from the nursery rhyme, "Ride a cock horse to Banbury cross," Darla Eshelman's "A Song from the Heart," Z. Randall Stroope's "The Poet Sings," Bob Chilcott's "The Lily and the Rose," Ed Robertson's "Sing a Song," Eugene Butler's "Music is My Life," Ruth Morris Gray's lilting, humorous "No Thank You, John," Ella Fitzgerald's "A-Tisket, A-Tasket," the Gershwins' "Someone to Watch Over Me," Billy Joel's "Lullabye" and Smokey Robinson's "My Guy." This is a poised, confident collection by one of the finest young women's ensembles in the world, beautiful, entertaining and moving.

The ACC is is a mixed-voice ensemble of 50 senior members of the seven London, Ontario, Canada children's choirs. 24 beautiful pieces, including Bob Chilcott's "Dona Nobis Pacem," versions I-IV, a pair of "O Magnum Mysteriums," one by Lauridsen and one by Thomas Luis de Victoria., Eleanor Daley's "Gloria in Excelsis Deo" and "My Master from a Garden Rose," and three with guest soloist Denise Pelley, "The Rain is Over and Gone," "Worthy to Be Praised" and "I Go to the Rock." Secular tunes "Flanders Fields," "The Banks of the Don," "Song of the Breton Fishermen," "Un Canadian errant" and Billy Joel's "And So It Goes" are also very special. Some piano accompaniment. We enjoyed every cut of this beautifully crafted collection from talented Amabile!

Award-winning conductor Stephen Hatfield's London, Canada-based Amabile Boys Choirs have entertained audiences throughout Canada, the US, Europe and Australia, receiving numerous awards including 10 first places at the prestigious CBC Choral Competition. The ABC's refreshingly varied song selection and clean, spirited harmonies are in ample evidence on "All Good People," beginning from the first exuberant cut, the Reggae tune "Don't Bend Down." 18 other gems follow: the 4-part "Missa Brevis," the Japanese work song "Ohisashi buri" (It's been a long time), the spiritual "Ezekiel Saw The Wheel," the lovely "When The Stars Fall," the salsa-flavored "Son de Camaguey," the raucous sea shanty "All For Me Grog," the heart-tugging "All Too Soon," "Double Shot," the spirited "Jesus Met the Woman at the Well," and the South African tune "Dubula." Each song surprises us with the energy and joy of singing of these talented boys. We have heard some of these songs before, but Amabile makes each one their own, the definitive version. "All Good People" is a treat, and winning CD #4 for Amabile!

The 4 choirs of the Bach Children's Chorus (BCC) have earned acclaim throughout greater Toronto for their beautiful, musical sound and professionalism. Totally approximately 200 children and youth, the BCC choirs are Choir I (ages 6-9), Choir 2 (ages 8-13), Choir III (treble singers ages 10-16) and Bach Chamber Youth Choir (boys with changed voices and girls 16-23). 23 songs, about half composed or arranged by Canadian composers. Particularly nice secular songs are the Quebecois folk songs "Canadian Boat Song" and "Un Canadien Errant," the Nova Scotia folk song "The Blackbird," James Gordon's "Frobisher Bay," Michael Unger's "Sea Song, the Cuban folk song "Son de Camaguey," Carolyn Jennings' "Panda," and the Venezuelan folk song "El Barquito." Favorite religious songs are 4 by Eleanor Daley, "The Cloths of Heaven," "O Be Joyful in the Lord," "My Master from a Garden Rose" and "The Angels Will Guide You Home," Z. Randall Stroope's "Lux Aeterna," Christopher Brown's "There is no rose of such virtue" and the final cut, "Hope for Resolution." The bright, clear sound of these childrens' voices makes "Go Where You Will" a special, moving CD. Accompaniment and percussion on some songs. Beautiful and extensive liner notes.

"The Jasmine Flower" features the harmonious and transcendent sound of the Beijing Angelic Choir, which is composed of the best singers from many local choirs in Beijing. Featured are 13 folk and traditional songs of different regions of China and Taiwan: "Children from the Mountain," The Celebration of the Tribal Harvest Festivals," "The Anthem of Parents," "Eight Fiery Horses," "Snow-White Flower Blossoms," "Wedding," "Dong-Dong-Kui (The Anthem of Joy)", the title tune, "My Beautiful Homeland," "Lady A-Shi-Ma," "The Jubilant Torch Festival Celebration," "My Lovely Hometown" and "A Rainy Day." All songs are lightly accompanied, the emphasis being on the singing of the children. "Jasmine Flower" is a joyous celebration of beauty and nature, as touching and profound as an ancient Chinese brush painting. The soaring sound of the soloists and singers is almost unbelievably beautiful! Songlist

The Beijing Angelic Choir, composed of the best voices from several local choirs in Beijing, is distinguished by their sweet, superbly trained voices and musical training. Included are 12 songs: "You-you-zha," "Clear Moon, Quiet Winds," "Hammock Hanging Between Betel Trees," "Puyama Lullaby," "Tu-jia Lullaby," "A-ni-qie-er," "Kitty, Stop Meowing," "Li Lullaby," "Lullaby of the Fisherman's Family," "Tibetan Lullaby," "My Brother, Pu-ru-lai" and "A-lai, Ba-lang-mu." These songs are lightly accompanied, with emphasis, of course, on the singing of the children. The sound is dreamlike, sweet and soaring, almost other-worldly. We'd love to learn more about the beautiful, haunting lullabies, but most of the liner notes are in Chinese and we can only use our imagination. "Lullabies" was a finalist for the 1996 NAIRD award for the Best Children's Music, and is stunningly lovely CD! Songlist

A celebration of 40 years of existence for the world-famous, 33-strong, mixed BNRCC makes us look at the founder of this amazing group, and at their present director and conductor. Hristo Nedyalkov, Professor in choral conducting at Sofia University, "a happy combination of great artistic talent and keen sense of teaching" is both founder and director. The popularity, renown, creative achievements and awards won by the choir over the years border on the incredible. The young Bulgarian singers have performed to acclaim in the famous concert halls in the capitals of the world. "The children sing like angelsæ" "Their voices are as crystal clear as a mountain springæ" Absolutely. A full hour of lightly accompanied, exuberant music is here, including an original by the director, "Winter Song." Some classical music (Cesar Franck's "Panis Angelicus," Schubert's "Serenade," Mozart's "Regina coeli K. 276), some folk (Nicolas Kaufmann's "Two Humorous Folk Songs" and "Melodies from the Shoppe Region," and Milko Kolarov's "Why is the Spout Dripping), a Christmas song ("O Holy Night") and even a spiritual, ("I Want to Go to Heaven"). Mostly sung in Bulgarian, but with voices like these, who cares?

The Chautauqua Children’s Chorale was formed in 1988, by Nancy A. Krestic and Dr. Donald P. Lang. It was formed with the mission to promote excellence in singing and musical growth, and give a different dimension to the choral experience for children. The Chorale is made up of two choirs of children ages 8 to 17: Junior Chorale and Concert Chorale. There are approximately 85 singers in Chorale. Both choirs perform a wide variety of music, including sacred, classical, secular choral music and contemporary music written for unchanged voices and the concert stage. Periodically the Chorale has commissioned choral works written specifically for them.

Exuberant singing comes from the Chicago Children's Choir on songs of the human spirit. This live recording features Faure's Requiem and Bernstein's Chichester Psalms with piano accompaniment by Russell Stern. A cappella songs include a very spirited arrangement by Moses Hogan of The Battle of Jericho, Sizohamba, a South African Xhosa song and Svadba, a Bulgarian Wedding song featuring the treble voices. The tenors and basses are featured on the John Coates Jr. arrangement of He Ain't HeavyÉHe's My Brother. The program closes with Gods Love Nubia from the musical "Aida."

"The Chicago Children's Choir is a multiracial, multicultural choral music education organization, shaping the future by making a difference in the lives of children and youth through musical excellence." This is how the directors and teachers of the CCC describe themselves and what they are trying to do, and it warms our hearts on many levels. In the very brief liner notes is a picture of the large, red-jacketed choir of beautiful, intently singing children. Inside the 15 live Christmas songs are listed: "Gesu Bambino," Sing Joyfully," "This Christmastide," "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day," "Christmas Song," "Riu, Riu Ciu," "Vehavta," "Hacia Belen va un borrico," "Appletree Wassail," "I Want the Star," "Christmas Lights," "A Take Six Christmas," "Snow," "White Christmas" and "Go Tell It on the Mountain." Josephine Lee, Artistic Director, is there in very small type. That's itÏwe learn from their website that the group began in 1956, the dream of the late Rev. Christopher Moore, that grew from a handful of kids in the First Unitarian Church to 3,000 kids in 61 in-school choruses, 5 after-school neighborhood choirs and this 125-voice Concert Choir. The music, the message and, of course, the children are the emphasis and the gift. Some light accompaniment.

The multiracial and multicultural Chicago Children's Choir has been changing the lives of children through musical excellence since 1956, and this is a live CD from the World Choral Festivals Vienna 2001. There are 12 songs here, ranging from traditional spirituals arranged by Moses Hogan, "Great Day," "Battle of Jericho" and "My Soul's Been Anchored In The Lord," and South African folk songs "Njenge Bhadhi" and "Ke Nali Moona" to Duke Ellington's "It Don't Mean A Thing" and Tobias Fox's "Shabach." All songs are accompanied, mostly by piano and drums. A great performance by an exceptional choir!

"Do You Hear The People Sing" was recorded at the CCC's four and a half week tour of South Africa in the summer of 1996. The 44 choir members, of many races, perform spirituals, gospel songs, African, Columbian and Korean songs, "Summertime" from Porgy and Bess, and a medley of West Side Story tunes. The excitement of these live performances shines through, as does the spirit and talent of these young voices.
Songlist

Founded in 1956, the Chicago Children's Choir is a multiracial, multicultural music education organization that strives to change the future by bringing musical excellence into the lives of children. "Spring Gala Concert" is a 2-CD set with 11 pieces on Disc 1 and 10 on Disc 2. All orchestrally accompanied, included are sacred songs like Van Dijk's "Bells," Schubert's "Mass in G," "Kyrie," "Gloria," "Credo," Sanctus Benedictus" and "Agnus Dei;" traditional spirituals like "My Lord What A Morning" and "My Soul's Been Anchored," two Native American songs, a Yiddish Lullaby, a South African folk song and two songs from "Aida" by Elton John and Tim Rice, "Dress Is My Strongest Suit" and "Gods Love Nubia." A beautiful album from a very special concert! Songlist

Precious Memories
Beautiful Home
Sweet Hour of Prayer
How Beautiful Heaven Must Be
Beulah Land
What a Friend We Have in Jesus
In the Sweet By and By
It is Well With My Soul
One Drop of Blood
Amazing Grace
Orphan Child

Building One Fire opens with a narrative by Silverbird of a speech written by Chadwick ÒCorntasselÓ Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, and segues into beautiful gospel songs, some delivered a cappella in Cherokee and English, and others with instrumental. Midway through the CD, the group delivers a unique Cherokee rendition of the universal favorite, ÒIÕll Fly Away.Ó The live recordings are prefaced by a spoken word introduction by McGee-Geneva, and the CD concludes with a poignant reading by Silverbird of ÒThe Future of the Cherokee Nation,Ó which was written by Redbird Smith, in 1918. The Cherokee National Youth Choir has made another great musical statement that will promote Cherokee language and culture, and further their role as ÒAmbassadorsÓ for the Cherokee Nation.

In the spirit of the true meaning of the Cherokee Christmas holiday, the Cherokee National Youth Choir delivers a CD of traditional and original songs of worship and celebration, entitled Jesus is Born Today (which is a translation from Cherokee, of the word Christmas). The album features powerful performances in the beauty of the Cherokee language. The CD opens with wonderful interpretations of "Silent Night" and "Angels We Have Heard on High," before moving into the title track "Jesus is Born Today," which was written by Parker and Janice Ballou. They are also joined by well respected Cherokee elder, Reverend Leroy Backwater in a narrative of "Grandfather's Christmas Story." The project soars with full choir productions and in selections by smaller groupings of choir members, accompanied by musical producer, Jeffrey Gray Parker.

Founded in 1986, the Children's Choir of Saint-Marc, who have brought their music to many countries, such as the US, Canada, Russia, Lebanon, Greece, Ivory Coast and Japan. They have regularly taken part in the the masses of la Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere in Lyon. Revealed to a much larger audience by the film "The Chorus," the Choir usually involves 55 children, but can grow to as large as 130 children with the addition of the preparation choir and a choir of teenagers. The song selection by director Nicolas Porte ranges from sacred music like Caccini's lovely "Ave Maria," Mendelssohn-Bartholdy's "Richt mich Gott" (Psaume 43) and John Rutter's "Open thou mine eyes" and "The Lord bless you and keep you," to secular songs like Giaoacchino Rossini's spirited "La Fede" and "La speranza," Gilles Vigneault's "Berceuse pour Julie," Jacques Prevert's "La Seine," and Charles Trenet's "Mes jeunes annees." Some piano accompaniment. The full-color liner notes show the Choir in period schoolboy uniforms, in concert. A remarkable movie has brought to our attention a very special and talented group of boys and their director.

Shin-ichiro Ikebe is a highly acclaimed Japanese composer who has written many symphonic works and operas, as well as, music for TV and film. This recording contains his choral works for children including six lullabies, twelve Fairy Tales and Doronko No Uta poems. These pieces are very simple, yet beautiful and would be a welcome addition to a program looking for something a little exotic for your choir.

The continued success of the Children's Chorus of Washington has brought us yet another wonderful CD featuring their Concert Chorus and Treble Chorus, under the direction of founder, Joan Gregoryk. This CD includes recordings of both their Holiday and Spring Concerts. You are sure to smile when you listen to these children sing.

This recording of the Concert Chorus from Children's Chorus of Washington, led by Joan Gregoryk with accompanist Donald Cotton, features pieces from the 2002 holiday and 2003 spring concerts. Selections include "Personent Hodie," arranged by Rutter, "The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy," arranged by Emerson, "Salut Printemps," by Debussy, "My Heart's in the Highlands," by Bisbee and "O Sapo," by Hatfield. Several pieces from the Holiday concert are accompanied by brass choir. The choir also sings five numbers in combination with the treble chorus.

This CD is a lovely assortment of familiar Christmas carols. The opening carol, "Once in Royal David's City" with soloist Maribeth Diggle is especially nice as voices are gradually added until the full choir is singing. Most pieces are a cappella with a few accompanied by organ. Chorus Angelicus and Gaudeamus are both directed by Paul Halley. The combination of the children's and adult choirs creates a beautiful sound. This is a delightful treat for Christmas.

With beloved American folk music, art songs, international pieces and original works commissioned especially for the Children’s Chorale, this CD will be a cherished addition to your collection. Includes the Children’s Chorale classic: “The Colorado Song.”

An exceptional collection of Appalachia folk music, Tellin’ it on the Mountain takes listeners on an inspiring musical journey back to a simpler time in our nation’s history. The music is arranged by local composer Samuel Lancaster, who has composed dozens of works for the Colorado Children’s Chorale through the years. Lancaster describes the music as “a collection of valuable antiques.” At times beautifully simple, the music moves the listener through sweet, whimsical grooves to powerfully complex harmonies and pure excitement. Inspired by Appalachia’s traditional Christmas “all-night watch” services where people gathered to sing until the Morning Star appeared, Lancaster calls Tellin’ it on the Mountain a “remembrance of people gathering to look for new life and new hope.” This CD also features two Chorale favorites never before available on one recording: “Christmas in Colorado” and “This Christmastide.”

Founded in the SF Bay Area in 1994, and now boasting over 750 choristers of all ages, in 18 classes that rehearse weekly and perform a wide repertoire of choral music. The CCC's cultural mission is blending the best of Eastern and Western musical traditions. Crystal Choir has toured Canada, Hong Kong, Austria, Hungary and both coasts of the US. It has performed at Carnegie Hall, Davies Hall in SF, and has won many awards. The first half of the recording is 9 Eastern songs, such as "Ode to the Eight Stallions," "In a Far Away Land," "The Riddle Song," "Happy Gathering," "Life on the Railway Gang" and "Jasmine." The second half is 10 Western songs, such as "Gloria," Rimsky-Korsakov's "Flight of the Bumblebee," "The Water Is Wide," "Old Joe Clerk," "Amazing Grace" and "Battle Hymn of the Republic." Some piano and other light accompaniment. Crystal has a bright, spirited sound that lends itself well to this material. An impressive debut CD!

Listen to Ode To The Eight Stallions in Real Audio

Nationally renowned musician and educator Emily Ellsworth directs the 51-strong Chicago-based GECC through 16 songs in their distinctive warm and spirited style. Several Australian and New Zealand folk songs grace this CD, "Tutira Mai Nga Iwi," "Cabbage Tree Hat," and "Waltzing Mathilda." Two of our favorites are the exuberant African-flavored tunes "Kungala" and "Akakomborerwa," with its powerful rhythmic drumming. Also among our favorites are Aaron Copland's "The Promise of Living" and "At the River," arranged by Copland, and "I'm Goin' Up a Yonder" by Walter Hawkins. Most songs are piano or drum accompanied, all are beautiful and touching.

The 60-strong GECC, under the able direction of nationally recognized musician and educator Emily Ellsworth. Accompanied on piano by William Bubs, "Abbondanza" is a spirited, joyous collection from the first tune, "How Can I Keep From Singing," a heartbreakingly beautiful a cappella "Amazing Grace" and Leonard Bernstein's "Simple Song" to Hatfield's exuberant "Las Amarillas," Favero's "Te Quiero," "I Love a Piano" and "Ae Fond Kiss." Interspersed are sacred songs like Haydn's "Laudate pueri Dominum," Puccini's lovely "O mio babbino caro" and Donizetti's "Che interminable andirivieni," the wonderful Servant's Chorus from Don Pasquale. An aptly titled CD by one of the best children's choruses we've heard.

Colorful Christmas selections of all styles by the multiple award-winning, Chicago area-based mixed-voice GECC, directed since 1996 by Emily Ellsworth, with Guest Artist Stephen Hartman on harp. 21 songs, featuring Britten's "Ceremony of Carols," traditional favorites, popular selections such as "Most Wonderful Time of the Year," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and a poignant new arrangement of "Auld Lang Syne." We love the sound of a fine children's chorus at Christmas, especially one as beautifully trained and directed as this one. John Rutter's "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day" and "Personent Hodie," "Ding Dong Merrily on High," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and a lilting cover of Jester Hairston's "Mary's Little Boy Child." Some accompaniment, from light harp to orchestral, on all songs. An excellent CD, sure to fill you with Christmas spirit!

Listen to "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day" in Real Audio.

Pride of Guelph, Ontario, Canada, the Guelph Youth Singers bring us this well-selected group of 22 songs, 14 written by Canadian composers. Favorites are Connie Kaldor's "Wood River," "Strings in the Earth and Air," the spiritual "Little Wheel," Franz Schubert's "To the Moon" (An den Mond), the Canadian folksong "The False Young Man," Thomas F. Dunhill's "April's a Lovely Lady," the English folksong "May Day Carol," James Gordon's "Song of Our City," Bach's "Ich Jauchze Mit Lachen und Schall," Eleanor Daley's "Rise Up My Love," Engelbert Humperdinck's "Evening Prayer," Stephen Adams' "The Holy City," and the final cut, Allister MacGillivray's "Song for Peace." All songs are lightly piano accompanied. An impressive, spirited collection from the talented and beautifully-directed Guelph Youth Singers.

This is the first CD by the 42-strong, mixed Indiana University Children's Choir (they appear from their photo to be 9 to 12 years old), directed by Debra Shearer, with piano by Erica Tam (there is also some percussion, and baritone sax, trombone and harp on "At The Sea-Side) . This is a fairly eclectic collection: the Serbian Gypsy dance "Niska Banja," the heartbreaking "Bahama Lullaby," the hymn to the Earth Mother "Songs for Imberombera," "They Have No Song," the song of a poor convict "Moreton Bay," the early Christian sacred songs "Ave Maria" and "Ibr Heiligen, lobsinget dem Herren," "Arroyito Serrano," an ode to a mountain stream in Argentina, "Past Life Melodies," Robert Louis Stevenson's poem "At the Sea-side" set to music, the lullaby "Sheep in the Meadow, "Esik eso," another lulluby, "Away from the Roll of the Sea," "The Grass," and the famous Australian song "Waltzing Matilda." Well-chosen tunes and beautiful, sweet singing by the children - who could ask for more?

Listen to "Ave Maria" in Real Audio.

The Indiana University Children's Choir comprises six choirs for children from kindergarten through high school. All children can find a place in one of those choirs regardless of training. Three choirs are represented here, the Treble Choir has the bright sound of girls 9 and 10 years old, the Chamber Choir, for older girls and boys with unchanged voices, and the Youth Chorale, a mixed group of high school singers with voices moving into adulthood. There are 22 songs here, we particularly enjoyed four movements by Brahms, "Liebeslied No.'s 8, 10, 13 and 18," Cobb's "Cantate Domino," Sprenkle's "For a Dewdrop," the moody "Erev Shel Shoshanim," Hatfield's "La Lluvia" and "Fair Phyllis I Saw," the folk spinning song "Sarasponda," Morley's "Sing We and Chant It," Franck's "Da Pacem Domine," James Taylor's "That Lonesome Road," and the Wm. Dawson spiritual "Soon Ah Will Be Done." Some light piano accompaniment. "Seasons" is a varied, spirited and enjoyable collection by this fine Midwestern children's choir.

"Here's To Song" is The Lawrence Children's Choir's second CD, once again directed by founder Janeal Krehbiel and accompanied by co-founder Marilyn Epp. There are 30 songs here, all but a couple are accompanied by piano or piano and clarinet or oboe. The 70-voice choir takes more chances on their second CD, in the form of more solos and more adventuresome arrangements. The song selection continues to be all over the map, from Gabriel Faure's "Pie Jesu from Requiem Mass" to Joan Varner's wonderful "When I Am Silent." These kids don't hold anything back, and can hit the high notes with ease and skill. Here's to the children, Ms. Krehbiel , Ms. Epp, and To Song!
Songlist

Janeal Crabbe Krehbiel directs the various incarnations of the Lawrence (Kansas) Children's Choir in 30 live in concert songs, recorded over the last 10 years. All the songs are piano accompanied by Marilyn Crabbe Epp, with occasional trumpet, violin, bass and other instruments throughout. The childrens' spirited, sweet, high voices turn songs like Andrew Carter's "Butterflies and Moths," Brahms' "Die Meere," the spiritual "Go Where I Send Thee," Purcell's "Trumpet Song," Dvorak's "Dove and the Maple Tree" and Gilbert & Sullivan's "HMS Pinafore Medley" into magical, inspirational, soaring anthems!
Songlist

After Emmanuel Descombes’ December 2006 documentary of this famous children’s chorus, RYM Musique & Buda Records now make available a beautiful box set celebrating 100 years of the choir. The 2XCD set includes some of the best of the legendary interpretations and recent recordings of the PCCB, accompanied by a twelve-page booklet including photos, history, and more.

The Los Angeles Children's Chorus, serving children from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds, providing them with a comprehensive music education and performance program. The Concert Choir, for instance, has performed with the LA Philharmonic, the LA Master Chorale and LA Chamber Orchestra, and at the Hollywood Bowl. Touring is an important part of the program, the choir has toured throughout Europe, Australia, and North America in previous seasons. "Future" includes highlights from the 2002-03 season, which focused on contemporary repertoire and techniques, as well as cherished traditional songs. 19 songs, with some accompaniment, divided into 3 sections, "Future Sounds," which includes John Adams' eclectic "The Palm from El Nino," and Pekka Kostianinen's difficult, striking "Revontulet;" "Past Inspirations," which includes Jacob Handl's lovely "Congratulamini Mihi Omnes," George F. Handl's "Sing With Pleasure," Randall Thompson's sweet "Echo From Two Childhood Songs" and "Away From The Roll of the Sea," by Allister MacGillivrey; and "In Celebration Of The Holidays," which includes Bach's soaring "O Jesulein Suss," Britten's "Deo Gratias," W.H. Perry's "To Bethlehem" and the traditional "Riu, Riu, Chiu." This is one of the finest young choruses in the world, effortlessly singing a difficult, well-chosen repertoire.

Listen to "Congratulamini Mihi Omnes in Real Audio.

The world-renowned LACC consists of 200 children from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds in four choirs who sing a repertoire varying from classical works to art songs, folk songs and spirituals, and new compositions commissioned by the Chorus. "Fifteen Years" includes live highlights from the 2000-01 Fifteenth Anniversary season. 18 songs, some accompanied," divided into four categories: "Songs of the World" includes Malcolm Dalglish's wonderful "Sail Away," Enrique Feliu's "Ciclo Carol Infanti" and the traditional Mexican "Las Amarillas;" "Songs for the Holidays," which includes the rousing "S'vivon," Jester Hairston's calypso carol "Mary's Little Boy Child" and Britten's "This Little Babe;" Songs of the Oldest Art," including Handl's "Art Thou Troubled?" (from Rodelinda) and Bach's "Ich Jauchze;" and "Songs of the Newest Skill," which include Paul Gibson's masterful "Alice Through A Looking Glass" Suite, "The Walrus and the Carpenter," "Beneath A Sunny Sky" and "The Jabberwocky." An excellent "Best-Of" live CD from one of the best childrens choruses in the world!
Songlist

The South Bay Childrens Choir is based at El Camino College in the Los Angeles area of Southern California and is under the artistic direction of Diane Simons. Co-founded in 1996 by the late Dr. Jane Hardester and Diane Simons, the choir produced their first CD, “In the Beginning - 1998 to 2005”, featuring the Bel Canto singers, known for their impeccable intonation, blend, and expressiveness. The repertoire includes classical favorites such as “Dome Epais” by Delibes and a riveting performance of Britten’s “This Little Babe”, as well as many exciting folksong settings, including ‘Sail Away” by Malcolm Dalgleish, performed a capella. The title song “In the Beginning” by Imant Raminsh shows off the choir in its early years, and the 2005 premier performance of “Platanos” by Edward Cansino demonstrates their later maturity as singers. There are three pieces, (Missa Brevis, It Was a Lover and His Lass and Till Morning) by composer-in-residence B. Wayne Bisbee.

This recording features highlights from the 2007 Spring Concerts that were recorded live in Pillsbury Chapel at Missouri Baptist University. Under the most excellent direction of Barbara Berner the various choirs shine making this recording an excellent addition to your music library.

The 25th Anniversary Celebration Concert was recorded on May 18th, 2003 at Powell Symphony Hall. It included all 15 ensembles of the St. Louis Children's Choirs, plus a special choir of 90 alumni from across the United States. The Choirs were started in 1978 by Diance Finley whose vision established the artistic and professional foundation for the Choirs. Today, The St. Louis Children's Choirs include approximately 550 young people in 1st through 12th grades who come from over 275 schools throughout the greater St. Louis area.

One of the most impressive children's choir programs in the world, the SLCC, under the direction of Barbara Berner, showcases the 6 progressive levels the children from 1st through 12th grades may attain, from the Preparatory Choir to the internationally performing Concert Choir. These 30 live songs, from the first 6 selections by the Concert Choir, especially Samuel Ward's "An American Anthem" and "O Sapo," the Beginning Choir's "The Lone Wild Bird," the Intermediate Choir's renditon of Handel's "I Will Praise Forever" and "Codfish Shanty," the Preparatory Choir's sweet "Sleep My Baby," the Chamber Choir's "O Soldier, Won't You Marry Me?," the Choristers' rendition of Bob Chilcott's 5-part "A Little Jazz Mass," and the massed choirs' lovely "Fairest Lady" by Nick Page. Every song here is special in its own way, and the collection as a whole is a joy to listen to—St. Louis is truly blessed to have such an uplifting program!

This CD includes highlights from the 2004 Spring Concerts, recorded live at Manchester United Methodist Church on May 16, 2004. The Artistic Director remains Barbera Berner, who took on the position in 1996. 2004 was a greatyear for the SLCC, as they performed internationally and in venues such as The White House and Carnegie Hall.

This festive suite by acclaimed composer Mark Brymer is scored in a Holiday Pops style for orchestra, choir and soloist. This 30-minute work is divided into nine sections, each titled for a letter in the word C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S. This performance by the Milwaukee Children's Choir features mezzo-soprano Christine Thomas and is accompanied by the Indianapolis Recording Orchestra. This is a charming piece which weaves together holiday favorites with newly composed songs. It is a fresh new work which will delight this season.

Good cheer comes from the Milwaukee Children's Choir on this recording of Christmas music. This album features Benjamin Britten's A Ceremony of Carols as sung by the Cantorei Choir, led by Emily Crocker and accompanied by harpist Stephen Hartman. This is one of the great Christmas pieces for treble voices. The CD also contains performances by the Concert Choir and Prelude Choir and includes pieces by Emily Crocker: "In dulci jubilo" and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas." Wonderful performances by all.\

Listen to "Hodie" in Real Audio.

Based at Anderson United Methodist Methodist Church in Jackson, MS, the Mississippi Children's Choir, with hot soloist Steven Johnson, accompanied by a rocking band, wastes little time getting down on the spiritual "House of the Lord." This CD brings us 11 (accompanied) tunes, many we haven't heard before: "All We Have," "I'm Blessed," "Anointing," "Whiter Than Snow," "The Shepherd Song," "Things Go Better With Christ," "Remember Me," "Joy of My Salvation," "Throne of Mercy," and "O Come Let Us Adore Him (The Little Boy and His Boat)." "When God's Children" has all the spiritual joy and youthful energy you can imagine, the kind that brings you up out of the pew to dance in the aisles and sing along. Wonderful children's art in the liner notes. This is the real thing and highly recommended!

The Children’s Choir of the Brussels Monnaie Royal Opera House give us here their first CD. It is the fruit of two seasons devoted to Benjamin Britten’s works, which culminated with superb performances of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. We discover here an attractive selection of works for children voices composed by the British master, in committed performances by very young and refreshing voices (10 to 14 years old). From Beware, composed when Britten was 11, to Golden Vanity, a pocket-opera created in 1967 by the Wienersängerknaben via the delightful Friday Afternoons, the world of childness according to Britten will seduce the listener by the composer’s aptitude at alternating simplicity and complexity, violence and sweetness, smiles and tears in a refined miniature world. 51 minutes

The National Catholic Youth Choir sings sacred masterpieces from Gregorian chant to newly-written pieces. "Doxology" was commissioned for the choir from Kevin Vogt for the 2000 premier season. It interweaves Latin doxology with English liturgical texts. Other selections include "A Maiden Most Gentle," by Andrew Carter, "Panis Angelicus," by Cesar Frank and "Tu Es Petrus," by Maurice Durufle. This highly select group of singers is conducted by Dr. Axel Theimer and accompanied by Michelle Plombon.

The National Catholic Youth Choir sings a variety of sacred music from the Renaissance through modern periods. The theme of the 2001 season, "Death and New Life," runs through the pieces. Selections include "Ehre sei Dir Christe," by Heinrich Schutz, "Pie Jesu" and "In Paradisum," from Gabriel Faure's Requiem and "At the River," by Aaron Copland. Led by Axel Theimer, the goal of the choir is to "spread the Catholic faith through great music.

The British choral music featured on this CD is dynamic. The opening Requiem by Priaulx Rainier is for tenor solo and unaccompanied choir. This very demanding piece was first performed by Peter Pears and the Purcell Singers. Based on the poem by David Gascoyne, the piece was written for the future victims of World War II. On A Deserted Shore, by Francis Routh, for soprano solo, double choir, semi-chorus, two pianos and percussion is a lament on the death of a loved one. The Three Partsongs by Alan Rawsthorne are also incredibly gorgeous. These incredibly difficult pieces are superbly performed by the National Youth Choir of Great Britain, conducted by Michael Brewer. The featured soloists are Eileen Hulse, soprano and Mark Wilde, tenor

The music of Robert L. de Pearsall and Charles Wood is not very well known today, but definitely deserves a listen. Pearsall was a former lawyer who gave up the law after a stroke. He became interested in early music, particularly 16th century counterpoint. Wood is mainly known for his church music, but was very interested in secular music as well. The madrigals and part songs featured are quite nice and would be of interest to any choir looking for something different. They are wonderfully performed here by the very talented National Youth Choir of Great Britain.

If you've heard this choir before, you know what to expect here: lustrous ensemble sound, crisp, clear, clean articulation, irresistible rhythmic energy, keen intonation, and impressive command of some very challenging music. In this two-disc program (35 works) we're treated to five Magnificats, all different in style--from chant and early-20th-century settings to more "modern" versions by Herbert Sumsion, Swedish composer Agneta Sk–ld, and conductor Z. Randall Stroope--as well as a widely varied array of original and arranged works for treble voices.
Songlist

And many more tracks

Cheryl Dupont is the Artistic Director of the three divisions of the NOCC, the Youth Chorale, Chamber Ensemble and Concert Chorus. The piano accompaniment for these 23 songs is provided by Kevin Caparotta. Some of our favorites are the title tune by the masterful Moses Hogan, Mark Patterson's "This Shall Be For Music," Bob Chilcott's "The Lily and the Rose" and "Be Simple Little Children," Cesar Franck's "Panis Angelicus, John Rutter's "Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind," Paul Basler's "Gloria from Missa Kenya," Nick Page's Thula S'Thandwa," Paul Simon's "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and the Scottish Folk Song "Auld Lang Syne" by the combined choirs. Every cut here is wonderful, inspirational music from one of America's finest children's choruses!

Since its debut in 1998, the Pacific International Children's Choir Festival has established itself as one of the finest events of its kind in the US. This is a double CD set, featuring a collection of performances fom festival years 1998 through 2001 on Disc 1 and highlights from PICCFEST 2002 on Disc 2. There are 19 live, accompanied, wonderful, spirited songs on Disc 1, by some of the best children's choirs we've heard: from "Panis Angelicus," by the Phoenix Boys Choir and "Jabberwocky," by the Seattle Children's Chorus, to "On suuri sun rantas autius" by the Surrey Children's Choir and "It Don't Mean a Thing" by the Youth Choir of Central Oregon--it's all pure, sweet stuff. Disc 2, from 2002, features 13 live cuts by 13 different groups, from Indianapolis Children's Choir Kantorei, Northwest Girlchoir Vivace Choir and Pacific Chorale Children's Chorus to the Piedmont Choirs Concert Choir, the Portland Symphonic Girlchoir (one of our favorites), and Young Voices of Colorado--there's not a bad cut here. This is a real feel-good CD on many levels. Though all accompanied, the focus is on the voices of the children, which are incredible! Recommended.

Founded in 1979, The 35-strong mixed-voice SLCC has come to be regarded as one of the finest ensembles of its kind in the country, and is known at home and abroad for its artistry and its inspiring, angelic sound. Founder/director Ralph B. Woodward leads these talented children through 24 lovely (piano accompanied) pieces, from Grieg's "Greeting" and "De Norske Fjelde," " Brahms' "My Heart Is In Bloom" and "Song of the Skylark," Schumann's "In The Open Air" and "Moonlit Night," and Franz' "The Rose Sighed," to Scottish folk tunes "Ca' The Yowes" and "Sweet Woodlark," French folk tune "Il Pleut, Bergere" and Slovakian folk tune "Zalet' Sokol," the sweet voices and perfectly chosen material take us to a wonderful place. The ensemble concludes with "Air," "Little Lamb," Psalm Twenty-Three," "Evening Prayer" and "A Day In Spring," by which time we're ready for our story and to be tucked in to bed. Lovely and recommended.

Hungarian composer Bartok Bela wrote these 27 a cappella pieces for children's and women's choirs in an energetic burst in 1935-36, sandwiched in between outstanding accompanied works such as "String Quartet No. 5" and "Music for Strings, Percussion and Celesta." These songs are all sung in Hungarian by the delightful Schola Hungarica and are all less than 3 minutes in length. Some favorites, "Spring," "Letter to those at home," "Play Song," "Courting," the joyous "I have a ring," "Breadbaking," "Hussar," "Boys' Teasing Song," "Michaelmas greetings," "Suitor," "Bird Song," "Jeering," "Regret," "Cushion dance" and "God be with you!" Alternately sweet, celebratory, sad, focused on the task at hand, and many other expressions of the thoughts and emotions of youth, this is a remarkable and touching collection by an inspired master Hungarian composer. Complete lyrics and translations in the extensive liner notes.

The Concert Chorus of the Southern California Children's Chorus gives a very joyous performance. Simple Gifts contains mostly sacred pieces for treble voices. The chorus sings early pieces by Praetorius and Banchieri as well as 20th century pieces by Zoltan Kodaly. The title piece by Aaron Copland is arranged by director Lori Loftus. Many pieces are a cappella and the others are accompanied by David Lomakin. The pieces chosen have many solos featuring some of the group's talented singers.

The SCCC, founded by artistic director Lori Loftus, involves 200 choristers in a sequential choral program consisting of 6 choirs. The 65 mixed-voice Concert Chorus, under Lori's leadership, is rapidly becoming the leading children's chorus in Southern California. 21 songs, the first 11, all arranged by Lori, are religious and sacred music, with the exception of the traditional title tune, arranged by Aaron Copeland. Banchieri's "Jubilate Deo," Praetorius' "Sing dem Herrn," Handel's "Art Thou Troubled," Zoltan Kodaly's "Psalm 150," James McCray's "Kyrie," and Rene Clausen's joyous "Psalm 100" are favorites in this group. The traditional Hebrew song "S'Vivon," the upbeat folk tune "Niska Banja," Leonard Bernstein's "One Hand, One Heart," Walter Hawkins' "I'm Goin' Up a Yonder," the spiritual "Go Where I Send Thee!," and the traditional "May the Road Rise Up to Meet You" are other favorites. Piano accompaniment on some songs. Excellent song selection and the spirited harmonies of talented youthful choristers—"Simple" is truly a gift!

Rainbow Sounds illustrates in a real way the international dimensions of the Tapiola Choir's activities. The choir has made nearly 60 foreign tours to nearly thirty countries. Three times the tour has taken them literally around the world. Tens of foreign choirs have enjoyed a reciprocal welcome in Tapiola as a consequence. It will come as no surprise then that the choir has developed a substantial repertoire of songs from around the world, sung in the original languages. On this CD alone one can hear over half of the thirty-or-more languages in which the choir has sung. Special attention is always paid to accuracy of pronunciation.
Songlist

Musicality has paved the way for the expansive project that has made the Tapiola Choir's career a unique one. All the way from the 1960s the choir has worked hand in hand with many of Finland's finest composers. This work has generated a quite new choral repertoire of very high quality and - most important - completely lacking all the stock "music for children" mannerisms.
Songlist

Over three decades have passed since the founding of the Tapiola Choir, then known as the Tapiola Children's Choir. Shortly after their founding, in 1973 they released "Tapiolan Joulu" ("Christmas With Tapiola"). If you have ever heard that classic album you can't help but be moved by the bell-like chime and purity of the children's voices. On this new Christmas recording the Tapiola Choir, long since recognized as an international treasure, creates a richer, more mature sound with the addition of a couple of dozen young adult voices belonging to the 'seniors.' The choir's founder, Prof. Erkki Pohjola wished to share the experience of creating this recording with former members because this is to be his last as conductor and director of the choir. Additionally, the breadth of the arrangements was enhanced by use of orchestration which never occludes the beauty of the choir and special guest Jorma Hynninen, the celebrated Finnish operatic baritone. The recording begins with an a cappella version of the Australian folk song, "Mary, Handmaiden of the Lord" which was the first three part song ever sung by the original "Choir of the Lower Forms of Tapiola Secondary School." Progressively the song list increases in festivity, youthful fun predominates, and then imperceptibly the feeling returns to the original spirit of Christmas until, finally the choir closes the recording with the a cappella "At Christmas, God Came on Earth." This beautiful recording is not only a testimonial to the young singers of Tapiola but a superb passing of the musical baton to the new conductor, Kari Ala-Pollanen.

Listen to "Go, Tell It On The Mountain" in Real Audio.

Dixit Dominus - Galuppi
St. Leopold Mass - Johann Michael Haydn
Cantique De Jean Racine - Faure
Noel Des Enfants - Debussy
Ave Maria - Brahms
Pie Jesu - Evans
Psalm Trilogy - Glick
Psalm Of Praise - Daley
Evening Song - Kodaly
Freedom Trilogy - Halley

This CD is a compilation of the most popular Christmas selections from the Toronto Children's Chorus previous Marquis recordings, Dancing Day and Mostly Britten, along with several never before released performances of favourite carols. Both John Rutter's "Dancing Day" and Benjamin Britten's "A Ceremony of Carols" - the two major works on this CD - are popular favourites.

Listen to "Promptement levez-vous" in Real Audio.

The repertoire of the Toronto Children's Chorus ranges from sacred music of the Renaissance to contemporary works from many cultures. In addition they have maintained a 20-year tradition of presenting the treble works of Canada's finest composers to the world. "Songs of the Lights" is live recordings from the Chorus' 1999 tour of Australia and New Zealand, and features songs from folk, jazz and popular music genres. Most songs are piano accompanied by Ruth W. Henderson. There are 20 cuts here, our favorites being the 4 tunes from Imant Raminsh's "Songs of the Lights," "African Celebration," the six songs from Patriquin's "World Suite One," accompanist Henderson's "Don't Ever Squeeze A Weasel," "George Gershwin Medley," and Leonard Bernstein's "Somewhere." Excellent!

This is a live recording from the 60-voice Toronto Children's Chorus' tour of Australia and New Zealand in August, 1999. 25 mostly (Christian) spiritually-oriented songs, directed by Jean Ashworth Bartle and accompanied by Ruth Henderson. "Come, Ye Makers of Song" captures all the excitement, energy and spirit of these incredible live concert performances!

Listen to "Agnus Dei" or "Fac, ut ardeat cor meum"

"My Heart Soars," the title coming from a poem by Chief Dan George, is a celebration of Canada, from coast to coast. All 19 songs are from Canadian pens, and each speaks of a different time, of laughter, love, triumph and tragedy in Canadian history. The 58-voice Toronto Children's Chorus , directed by Jean Ashworth Bartle, has won awards and established a first-class reputation in its 18-year history. Accompanied by Ruth Henderson on piano, Richard Dorsey on oboe, Virginia Markson on flute, as well as selected members from the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Extensive liner notes in English and French, with the words and history of the songs. Fascinating!

Rejoice and Sing, by the Trebel Chorus of New England, offers a varied selection for the Christmas season. The chorus led by founding directior Marie Stultz is expanded on this CD to include tenors and basses for some pieces. Many of the pieces featured were originally intended for childrens voices, such as "Wolcum Yole" and "This Little Babe" from Britten's Ceremony of Carols. The disc includes many traditional favorites (O, Come All Ye Faithful; O Holy Night) as well as a piece written by Stultz (Suite on the Nativity). These children are sure to brighten up your holiday mood.

Angels are Everywhere! is a recording of great music written for children's voices and features the Trebel Chorus of New England. The title piece was commissioned by the Glen Ellyn Children's Chorus, the Phoenix Boys' Choir and the American Boy Choir in 1993 with words and music by Daniel Pinkham. The CD also includes the cycle "Friday Afternoons" which Benjamin Britten wrote to assist music lessons. "Ode to Shelley," written by chorus director Marie Stultz, is a set of four a cappella songs on Shelley poems and was inspired by the lake district of Northern England. This CD celebrates the twenty year anniversary of the chorus.

Annabelle Cruz, founder and Director of Voena, her very special 56-strong international mixed choir boys and girls, ages 7 to 15. Based in Benicia, CA, "Voena" stands for "Voices of Eve 'N Angels" Annabelle encouraged the children, with multicultural backgrounds, to celebrate their unique sound, in the hope that they would become not just a choir but a family. They took off from there, singing 2 to 4-part harmonies, growing into doing song arranging and even composing. "A Cappella America" has 18 songs, featuring some excellent solos by young choir members. Some favorites: "Sweetly the Swan Sings," written by Annabelle, "God Bless America/My Country 'Tis Of Thee," "Children of Creation," with music by Annabella, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," the South African folk song "Singabahambayo," the traditional "Greensleeves," "America the Beautiful," "The Star Spangled Banner," "Simple Gifts, Shaker Hymn," Miriam Makeba's "Pata Pata," and Mozart's "The Magic Flute." Some accompaniment by Native Flute, percussion and fiddle. We find Voena's story inspirational, and their music beautiful and fine!

Annabelle Cruz, founder and Director, brings us a sweet Christmas CD by her very special international choir of boys and girls, ages 7 to 15. Annabelle encouraged them to celebrate their unique sound, and they took off from there, expanding into singing 2 to 4-part harmonies, song arranging and even composing. There are 18 songs, recorded before a live audience at St. Dominic's Church in Benicia, CA. Some are familiar, such as 'Carol of the Bells,' 'Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella,' 'Gloria/Silent Night,' 'O Come, O Come Emmanuel, 'Alleluia/Amazing Grace,' 'Angels We Have Heard On High' and 'Ave Maria/Holy Child of God.' Less familiar but equally wonderful are 'Alabanza,' the South African carols 'Siyahamba,' Tchotcholosa' and 'Gabbi Gabbi,' the Ladino song 'Cuando El Rey Nimrod,' and the traditional Appalachian and German carols 'The Cherry Tree Carol' and 'O Come Little Children.' Some light percussion and xylophone on some songs. The collection finishes with Praetorius' 'Jubilate Deo' and 'In My Eyes' by 13-year-old choir member Madeleine Quandt. Another beautiful, recommended CD.

The children in the Vox Aurea choir, one of the leading Finnish choral groups, are fortunate to be under the direction of Pekka Kostianinen, one of the finest choral composers, and one who likes to test his ideas on his choir before committing them to paper. Finnish folk tradition has been an inspiration for many of these works, the language providing a rhythmic undercurrent and the sound of the words music in itself. "LoRuLaiLee" is a cross-section of Pekka's main works for children's choir. 12 tunes, some favorites: the title tune, "Kiurun tie," "Satakieli," "Jaakobin pojat," and "Pah' on olla paimenessa I and II." This is ethereal, soaring, stunning material, especially for a children's choir.

Under the excellent direction of John Fleischman this mixed voice choir have recorded an interesting selection of music.