Choral Music Performance DVDs

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

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

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

Review: This musical documentary profiles British composer/conductor Benjamin Britten. Directed by filmmaker Tony Palmer, who also documented opera legend Maria Callas, it mixes biography with excerpts from such famed operas as Death in Venice and Peter Grimes. A special segment shows archival footage of the maestro working his magic behind the scenes in rehearsal. Interviews include a moment with Leonard Bernstein, who touches on the genius and the pain of 'a man at odds with the world.' With a running time of 102 minutes, this award-winning video hits all the right notes for the classical aficionado.

Songlist: Leonard Bernstein & Cousin Elsie, Britton as Conductor & Pianist, The Sea & Lowestoft , Early Compositions, Music for Films, Journey To America, Peter Grimes, Aldeburgh, Phaedra and Rape of Lucretia, The Aldeburgh Festival - Beginnings, Writing to Commission, The Sea, Travel, The Maltings Concert Hal, The Public Figure, Death in Venice, An Excellent Patient, Last Visit to Venice, "What Will It Be Like - Death?" , "I Was Lost on an Infinite Sea"

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

Review: Known especially for their dazzling and evocative Christmas programs, Chanticleer's acclaimed 2002 PBS special CHRISTMAS WITH CHANTICLEER: AN ORCHESTRA OF VOICES features bonus material not heard on the original broadcast. The songs are all Chanticleer audience favorites, from early English hymns to Franz Biebl's enchanting 'Ave Maria', John Tavener's 'A Christmas Round' holiday standards such as 'The First Nowell', and Vince Guaraldi's timeless, 'Christmas Time Is Here.' Filmed at the Metropolitan Museum's famed Medieval Sculpture Hall.

Songlist: Of The Father's Love Begotten, In Dolci Jubilo, O Magnum Mysterium, Sa Qui Turo Zente Pleta, Rosa Das Rosas, Riu, Riu chiu, A Christmas Round: Today The Virgin, Village Wedding, The Holly And The Ivy, A Virgin Unspotted, Ave Maria, Star Of Wonder, We Three Kings, The First Nowell, In The Bleak Mid-Winter, A Medley Of Christmas Spirituals, Rise Up Shepard And Follow, Behold That Star, Oh, What A Pretty Little Baby, Oh Jerusalem In the Morning, Christmas Time Is Here

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

Review: On 'Mission Road', the GRAMMY award-winning male vocal group Chanticleer - renowned worldwide as 'an orchestra of voices' - performs a selection of authentic, rich vocal repertory from the Mexican Baroque canon and other musical treasures of New Spain. The music explores what native Californians would have heard 200 years ago, both inside and outside the mission walls, and is from a series of acclaimed concerts celebrating Chanticleer's 30th anniversary that were performed at nine historic California missions in 2008. A fascinating contemporary realization of early music from 'El Camino Real,' the audio CD's highlights include: Friar Juan Bautista Sancho's Misa en sol (Mass in G); premieres of selected works by Mexican Baroque master Manuel de Sumaya - 'America's Handel' - only recently discovered in the archives of the Mexico City Cathedral; and various vocal compositions (introit, processional, alleluia, and recessional) by anonymous Spanish/Mexican composers of the late 18th century, including pieces that were originally part of the pageantry for feast days. The DVD presents the 34-minute film Mission Road-Our Journey Back, a behind-the-scenes chronicling of Chanticleer's mission era-inspired journey with concert footage, one-on-one interviews and a stunning collection of mission landscapes. Sonically and visually, 'Mission Road' is an extraordinary way to experience the music of the mission era, with its rich sense of discovery and faith, performed in the context for which it was composed centuries ago.

Songlist: O Que Suave!, Kyrie From The Misa En Sol, Gloria From The Misa En Sol, Alleluia & Veni Sancte Spiritus, Ya Se Heriza, Credo From The Misa En Sol, Para dar Luz Inmortal, Gozos Para SR. SN. Jose, Agnus Dei From The Misa En Sol, De Las Flores, Dulce Esposo De Maria

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

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

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

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)

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

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 - Porter, Dayton Ohio 1903 - Newman, Plainsong - P.D., Psalm Prelude Op. 32 - Howells, Prelude & Fugue in B - Dupre, Trio in D Minor - Bach

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, , ,

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

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

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)

Review: This DVD capture the exquisite sound of the American choral group Conspirare, as heard and seen on a nationally televised, one-hour concert airing nationally on PBS. Repertoire on the disc ranges from classical works by Lauridsen and Whitacre to arrangements of popular songs by Carly Simon and Dolly Parton. Taped live in October 2008 at Austin's Long Center for the Performing Arts, A Company of Voices - Conspirare in Concert is a production of KLRU-TV, Austin, Texas, with executive producers Dick Peterson and Marion Lear Swaybill and director Karen McLaughlin.

Songlist: Sure on This Shining Morning, Let the River Run, The Water is Wide, Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel?, Will There Really be a "Morning"?, Light of a Clear Blue Morning, Agnus Dei, Gabriel's Oboe, Soneto de la Noche, What If, Requiem, 1000 Beautiful Things, Tryptych, I Love You/ What a Wonderful World, The First of My Lovers

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

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

Review: Herbert Chappell's highly acclaimed original BBC Film is the story of a remarkable journey made by the composer and explorer David Fanshawe which inspired his celebrated work African Sanctus. The film retraces his musical steps up the river Nile to the source of the Nile`s music. Featuring many of the original musicians he first recorded in 1969, Fanshawe explains the ethos behind his work and the process of composition. On a quest to find his African mentor, The Hippo Man, he ventures forth. The original film African Sanctus was the BBC nomination for the 1976 rix Italia Prize, nominated for the greatest creative contribution to television. The Updated Film, (Director Herbert Chappell 1995), projects stirring and poignant images of Africa, This film combines authentic footage spanning 20 years, with Fanshawe`s brilliant and innovative score. We see glimpses of the performance with The Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Choristers of St Georges Cathedral, solo Wilhelmenia Fernandez, conducted by Neville Creed. The film also introduces Fanshawe`s new work Dona Nobis Pacem - A Hymn for World Peace. African Sanctus is a visionary work which expresses unity between diverse peoples their faiths and their music. African Sanctus is testimony to the rich heritage of world music and has became a landmark in our musical lives.

Songlist: African Sanctus, Kyrie: Call to Prayer, Gloria: Bride of the Nile, Credo: Sudanese Dances & Recitations, Love Song: Piano Solo, Et in Spiritum Sanctum, Crucifixus: Rain Song, Sanctus: Bwala Dance, Lamentation, The Lord's Prayer, Chants: Cattle Songs, Agnus Dei: War Drums, Call to Prayer: Kyrie, Finale & Gloria, Dona Nobis Pacem - A Hymn for World Peace, Et in Spiritum Sanctum, Dona Nobis Pacem (short version)

Review: The stirring performance of timeless music continues to inspire and delight listeners and viewers of all ages. The Fred Waring Show, a groundbreaking musical variety show from the golden days of early television, ran from 1949 until 1954 and was nominated for two primetime Emmys. This DVD features the incomparable baritone Frank Davis as the preacher in a Waring fan favorite, God's Trombones, the stirring James Weldon Johnson narrative poem set to music by Roy Ringwald. Gertrude Jeanette is the prayer leader. In addition, you will find a selection of favorite spirituals and folk songs performed by Frank Davis and the Glee Club Frank Davis was a singer (bass) and soloist with Fred Waring and the Pennsylvanians from 1952 - 1959, in 1962 and again from 1968-69. He was renowned as a spiritual and gospel singer, and in addition to performing with the Pennsylvanians, he did several solo concert tours.

Songlist: God's Trombones, Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen, Ain't Gonna Study War No More, Countin' My Blessings, Old Man River, Let My People Go (Go Down, Moses), Standin' in De Need of Prayer, The Lonesome Road, Shadrack, Born in Bethlehem, Hand Me Down, Somebody Bigger Than You And I, Martilda, Way Down Yonder in New Orleans, Look Down That Lonesome Road, Let My People Go, One For The Little Bitty Baby, Sometimes I Feel Like A Motherless Child

Review: Arvo PŠrt'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, 31.Scripsit autem et titulum Pilatus, 32.Noli scribere, Rex Judaeorum, 33.Milites ergo cum cruxissent eum, 34.Stabant autem juxta crucem Jesu Mater ejus, 35.Postea sciens Jesus quia omnia consummata sunt, 36.Qui passus es pro nobis, 37.Credits

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.

Songlist:

Review: One of the most moving collections of Renaissance vocal music brought to life as a contemporary drama specifically for the screen. Claudio Monteverdi's Fourth book of Madrigals (1603) explores differing emotional states of abandoned lovers through the most dramatic and amazingly modern music for vocal ensemble. The Full Monteverdi follows the simultaneous break-up of six couples, from shocking revelation, vengeful anger and erotic longing for reconciliation, as an ensemble film. Vulnerable and disarming, it draws viewers into its emotional journey and intensely moving portrait of contemporary love. Seated in a restaurant, the six couples begin to quarrel over dinner. Onlookers are drawn to the interactions of their fellow diners, yet also wary of their invasive gaze, as the relationships fragment before their eyes. The couples fight over moments in the past, then reflect on better times and unrealised dreams. Ultimately, the six (singing) lovers are left to contemplate life alone. The film takes place over an evening and following morning, with several scenes shot as flashback, giving viewers the back-story to the lovers' downfall. The film is sung throughout.

Songlist: Ah! Dolente Partita, Cor mio, Mentre vi Miro, Cor mio, non mori? E mori!, Sfogava con le stelle, Volgea L' Anima Mia Soabement, Anima Mia Perdona , Luci serene e chiare , La piaga c'ho nel core, Voi Pur Da Me Partite , A Un Giro Sol, Ohime, se tanto amate, lo mi son giovinetta, Quell' Augellin, che canta, Non Piu Guerra, Pietate, Si Ch'io vorrei morire, Anima Dolorosa che vivendo, Anima del cor mio, Longe da te, cor mio, Piagn'e sospira

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

Review: After the success of The King's Singers last DVD 'Live at the BBC Proms' this new video performance recorded at LSO St Luke's in London sets an eclectic assortment of modern Christmas classics with special arrangements of some much loved favourites. Ranging from the beautiful simplicity of Michael Pretorius's Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen to the mad capers of Gordon Langford's arrangement of Deck the hall, this is a delightful programme which reflects a typical live King's Singers Christmas show. The DVD also features a 10-minute bonus documentary feature, titled 'Life as a King's Singer'.

Songlist: Veni, veni Emmanuel, Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen, Rise up, shepherd, and follow, Lullay my liking, Gaudete, There is a flower, Noel nouvelet, Villancico Catalan, O little one sweet, La peregrinacion, Stille Nacht, Joy to the world, El nino querido, Born on a new day, Jingle Bells, Christmas song, God rest you merry gentlemen, The little drummer boy, Deck the hall

Review: Demonstrating their great versatility, the King's Singers prove in this recital from London's Cadogan Hall that although they have many imitators they remain the masters. The sextet of Englishmen has been delighting audiences on recordings for more than 30 years and those of us lucky enough to of attended one of their live performances know what incredible showmen they are also. On their first DVD, they share some of their favorite works, a mixture of songs old and new-madrigals by Byrd and Monteverdi, a Rossini overture, and tunes from the Beatles, Freddie Mercury, Duke Ellington, and many more. Interspersed with these performances is footage of the singers in the recording studio as they face the challenge of performing Thomas Tallis's 40-part motet 'Spem in Alium.' The program culminates with their performance with their rendition of this magnificent work. So sit back and enjoy a concert by one of the very best! (93 minutes plus encore. Widescreen)

Songlist: Haec Dies, O Lord Make the servant Elizabeth our Queen , As Vestas , Dessus le Marche d'Arras , Il est bel et bot, Luci serene e chiare, Si ch'io vorrei morire, Esti Dal, Omnis on Immene, Agnes Dei , Psalm 121, Down to The River to Pray, Honey Pie , Blackbird, Creole Love Song , Seaside Rendevous , Lullaby , The Barber of Seville, Danny Boy, Spem in Alium

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

Review: An inspirational story in the rich tradition of Music Of The Heart and Mr. Holland's Opus, The Chorus has moved critics everywhere to declare it one of the year's very best films! When he takes a job teaching music at a school for troubled boys, Clement Mathieu is unprepared for its harsh discipline and depressing atmosphere. But with passion and unconventional teaching methods, he's able to spark his students' interest in music and bring them a newfound joy! It also puts him at odds with the school's overbearing headmaster, however, locking Mathieu in a battle between politics and the determination to change his pupils' lives!

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Review: The magnificent 4-day Christmas Festival at Decorah, IA's Luther College tells the story of Christmas in song and narration, and features the 85-member Symphony Orchestra and hundreds of members of Luther's Nordic Choir, Pike Kor, Cathedral Choir, Norsemen and Cantorei. 26 cuts, all accompanied: 'For Unto Us A Child Is Born' from Handel's 'Messiah,' Leonard Bernstein's dramatic 'Chichester Psalms,' John Rutter's 'Candlelight Carol,' Bach's 'Gloria,' the joyous 'Cantemos a Maria' - it's all wonderful!

Songlist: Nimrod, Narration, Fanfare For A Festival, For Unto Us A Child Is Born, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Gloria, As Lately We Watched, Mbiri Kuna Mwari, Gloria, Chichester Psalms, Cantemos A Maria, Candle Light Carol, Sing Nowell Sing Gloria, All My Heart This Night Rejoices, Wake Awake, Vom Himmel Hoch, Agincourt Song, O Magnum Mysterium, A Christmas Alleluia, Still Still Still, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, Epilogue, Jerusalem, Narration, Infant Holy Infant Lowly, Silent Night

Review: 'Magnificent' and 'Beautiful' are words that come to mind a lot when experiencing this DVD of Luther College's 27th annual 'Christmas at Luther' festival, featuring over 600 student musicians in numerous choral and instrumental ensembles. This DVD features the breathtaking music, joyous robed choristers and glowing candlelight that makes 'Christmas at Luther' so famous and beloved. The various groups, including Nordic Choir, Symphony Orchestra, Cantorei, Christmas Brass and Percussion Ensemble, Cathedral Choir, Collegiate Chorale, Norsemen and Luther Ringers, perform individually and in combination to tell the timeless Christmas story in music and narration, from the marvelous 'Angels, from the Realms of Glory' by the combined choirs, Symphony Orchestra and organ, to the a cappella solo on 'Rise Up, Shepherd and Follow' by Norsemen's Timothy Olstad,' you will be moved and touched by 'Christmas at Luther!'

Songlist: Angels, from the Realms of Glory, I Was Glad, Comfort Ye My People (from Messiah), Candlelight Carol, Carol of the Birds, Sing We Now of Christmas , I Saw Three Ships, Winds Through the Olive Trees, Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones (from An Apostrophe to the Heavenly Hosts), Gloria (from Lord Nelson Mass), About Luther College, Rise Up Shepherd and Follow, Go Tell it on the Mountain, Before the Marvel of this Night, Farandole (from L'arlesienne, Suite No. 2), Silent Night, Wonderful Peace, Nation Shall Not Lift Up a Sword Against Nation (from Dona Nobis Pacem)

Review: In a time of war, and extraordinary group of women turned a song of hope into a symphony of triumph. From the director of 'Driving Miss Daisy' come a true story of courage, triumph, friendship and strength starring Glenn Close ('Dangerous Liaisons'), Oscar winner Frances McDormand (1996 Best Actress, 'Fargo') and Emmy Award winner Juliana Marguiles (TV's 'ER'). This compelling drama reveals the heroic actions of a group of women help prisoner by the Japanese during World War II. These diverse women from different countries, speaking different languages, unite to form a vocal orchestra Ð a life affirming symphony of human voices. The voices behind the on-screen choir that appear on this remarkable album belong to the Dutch women's choir Malle Babbe, who perform the actual arrangements of the original choir's arrangements from sheet music salvaged by the women prisoners upon their liberation. Hear for yourself the inspiring music behind this story of the triumph over despair and the preservation of hope.

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Review: Dubbed 'America's Choir' by President Ronald Reagan, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir celebrates 75 years of continuous weekly radio broadcasts in July 2004, the longest such run in broadcast history. Evolving from its humble beginnings in the barren Salt Lake Valley in 1847 as a choir singing to sagebrush to its spectacular performances at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, the Choir is now courted by the most sophisticated concert halls in cities across the globe. They have sung at the inauguration of fix U.S. presidents, twice received the prestigious Freedom Foundation Award for promoting patriotism and pride in America, were awarded the prestigious National Medal of Arts, and have been inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. Please join Walter Cronkite for an amazing look at an American institution and a national treasure.

Songlist: Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, Come, Come, Ye Saints, Come, Let us Anew, Betelehemu, Myfanwy/O Home Beloved, Cindy, Battle hymn of the Republic, Climb Ev'ry Mountain, Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing, God Be with You Till We Meet Again

Review: 'Rejoice and Be Merry!' is the 2007 Christmas concert recorded in Salt Lake City by The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and special guests, The King's Singers. Recorded in high-definition video and 5.1 Surround Sound, this CD is a smorgasborg for the ears. These massive concerts, given as a free gift to the community each year, and broadcast by PBS, are both joyful and reverential. This CD offers the full experience of the concert, with a 'you-are-there' viewpoint and behind the scenes interviews that can be viewed again and again. The choir is joined by the 120-member Orchestra at Temple Square, as well as The Bells at Temple Square, plus a score of dancers who perform an opening processional, and take part in the charming, complete presentation of 'The Twelve Days Of Christmas' which has to be seen to be believed.

Songlist: Rejoice And Be Merry, The First Nowell, Deck The Hall With Boughs Of Holly, El Nino Querido, La Peregrinacion, Riu, Riu, Chiu, Joseph Dearest, Joseph Mine, One December, Bright And Clear, O Holy Night, Sussex Carol, Rise Up, Shepherd, And Follow!, Little Drummer Boy, Jingle Bells, I Saw Three Ships, The Twelve Days Of Christmas, What Child Is This?, The Christmas Story: Luke 2, Angels, From The Realms Of Glory

Review: The Moscow Boys Choir is a careful blending of heavenly soprano voices with the rich resonance of bass, tenor, and baritone sound that brings a distinct Russian flavor to an all new choral experience. Founded in 1957, this choral ensemble is among Russia's most prestigious all-boy choirs, which is currently under the direction of Mr. Leonid Baklushin. Now for the first time ever, the Moscow Boys Choir is available in the crystal clarity of DVD! This very special performance was recorded in high definition by HDNet TV. Their work with HDNet exemplifies the Moscow Boys Choir's innovative spirit and displays their hallmark cutting-edge style. The significance of becoming amount the very first boys choir's to be broadcast in this new and exciting medium is a tribute to their tremendous talents and will no doubt bring more awareness of and accolades for this truly 21st century ensemble.

Songlist: A Quiet Melody, Angels We Have Heard On High, Ave Maria, Gloria / Kyrie, Hallelujah, We Wish You A Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, Fum! Fum! Fum!, Silent Night, Jingle Bells, L'Allelujah, Ochi Tchiornye, Evening Bells, The Twelve Days of Christmas, Kalinka

Review: In the early 1960's there arrived a recording of the Congolese Mass, Missa Luba which amazed and delighted western audiences. The Muungano National Choir is the latest to bring us a beautiful version of this work. Additionally we are the recipients of another ten Kenyan folk melodies all of which have spiritual messages. Boniface Mganga conducts this internationally acclaimed choir in one of the most beautiful and moving recordings of the Missa Luba ever to come to our shores.You will find that the arrangement of these African melodies came about because of the desire to praise the Lord with heart and soul in a familiar musical style. Drums are an integrated part of the songs and the strong rhythm they provide support the dancing of the singers while performing, allowing an outpouring of body, mind, and spirit...a complete form of worship. Thus it is that you will find most of this recording to be accompanied by percussive elements which merely enhances the real flavor of a fabulous performance. Newly released with an additional DVD of a movie directed by Anthony Howard of the choir performing interspersed with footage as the members of the choir introduce viewers to their native villages and surronding countryside.

Songlist: Misa Criolla:, Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Agnus Dei, Misa Luba:, Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Agnus Dei, Misa Flamenca:, DVD - Misa Luba

Review: Since its humble beginnings in the first decade of Stalin's rule, to performing over 1500 concerts at the frontlines in WWII, bolstering the besieged Russian troops' resolve, to the international acclaim that has followed them since the fall of the Iron Curtain, the Red Army Choir is arguably the world's leading and most visual choral/dance ensemble. 'Live in Paris' is a stunning group of 25 (actually 27, with bonus tracks 'Silent Night' and 'Jingle Bells') pieces, from the testosterone-soaked 'Russian National Anthem,' 'Oh Fields My Fields,' 'The Sacred War' (an apt anthem for a people who stopped the Nazi war machine in its bloody tracks), 'Kalinka' and 'On the Road' (A Soldier's Song); to dramatic and colorful dance numbers like 'The Cossack Dance,' 'The Navy Dance' (where women first appear onstage), the high-kicking 'Zaporoque's Cossacks' and 'The Festival March' this is powerful, moving stuff throughout. Opera-quality Tenor and Baritone soloists, an orchestra that includes multiple balalaikas and accordions, and song selections like 'Dark Eyes,' 'The Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves,' 'The Bandit's Chorus,' 'The March of the Toreadors,' 'Katioucha' and 'Moscow Nights;' these are the soul of heroic romanticism. The bottom line: 'Live in Paris' is great entertainment on many levels!

Songlist: The Russian National Anthem, Oh Fields My Fields (Song of the Plains), The Sacred War, In The Sunny Clearing, Kalinka, The Cossack Dance, We Sing To Thee, On The Road (A Soldier's Song), Smuglianka, A partisan's Song, Along The Peterskaya Road, Dark Eyes, The Navy Dance, The Chorus Of The Hebrew Slaves, The Bandit's Chorus, Spanish Medley: Amapola/Valencia/Granada, Zaporogue's Cossacks, Excerpt from "Boris Godounov", The March Of The Toreadors, Nessun Dorma, Di Quella Pira, The Festival March, Katioucha, Moscow nights (Midnight In Moscow), Silent Night, Jingle Bells

Review: Complete Musical Works of the Pilgrimage was filmed live at the basilica of St. John Lateran. This sacred collection of music includes Gregorian chants with incredible arrangements by Perosi, Liberto, Bartolucci, and Palestrina. A wonderful and interesting concert that is sure to be a unique addition to any classical collection.

Songlist: Pater Noster, Sicut Cervus, Tu es Petrus, Victamae Paschali laudes, Ave Maria, Benedictus , Cantate Domino, Veni ad liberandum nos, Jubilee Triptych for Organ, Salve Mater, O sacrum Convivium, Exultate iusti, Christe Redemptor omnium, Ave Verum, Alma Redemptoris Mater

Review: A fascinating history of Christmas music! CORO brings the next installment of the BBC s groundbreaking TV series, Sacred Music, to DVD. This documentary and concert performance follows The Sixteen and Simon Russell Beale as they explore the history of Christmas music. The story takes us through two millennia of music, from a fragment of papyrus preserving the earliest known piece of Christian music to the stories behind some of our most popular carols. Russell Beale also presents a special Christmas concert featuring full performances of some of the works featured in the documentary performed by Harry Christophers and his award-winning choir, The Sixteen. Bonus features include seven free audio tracks, trailers for Sacred Music: Series One and Sacred Music: An Easter Celebration, biographies, and related CD information.

Songlist: Make us merry, Hodie Christus natus est , O magnum mysterium, In dulci jubilo, There is no rose , Make we joy now in this fes, Hark! The herald angels sing, A spotless rose, In the bleak mid-winter , O magnum mysterium, Silent Night

Review: This 90-minute concert was especially recorded at LSO St. Luke's in London as a finale to the Sacred Music TV series. The concert, performed by Harry Christophers & The Sixteen and presented by Simon Russell Beale, features a selection of glorious music from the Sacred Music series culminating in Allegri's famous 'Miserere.' Playable in all regions. Approximate run time 90 minutes.

Songlist: Vexilla Regis, Gloria from Missa Papae Marcelli, Viderunt omnes, Super flumina Babylonis, Quomodo cantabimus?, Komm, Jesu, komm, Salvator mundi, salva nos, Ye sacred muses, Stabat Mater, Agnus Dei from Mass For Four Voices, Haec Dies, Miserere, Assumpta est Maria

Review: Fascinating stories, beautiful architecture, and some of the greatest music ever written-CORO brings the BBC's groundbreaking TV series to DVD! The complete first series charts the fascinating history of sacred music from the Notre Dame School to Johann Sebastian Bach. Presented by celebrated actor and former chorister Simon Russell Beale, this DVD also features Harry Christophers and his award-winning group, The Sixteen. Filmed on location across Europe, from Rome and Paris to Leipzig and London. Bonus features include extra tracks by The Sixteen, a preview of Sacred Music: An Easter Concert Harry, Christophers' Top 10 recordings, biographies, images, and much more.

Songlist: The Gothic Revolution, Palestrina and The Popes, Tallis, Byrd and The Tudors, Bach and The Lutheran Legacy

Review: This rare and historic program was filmed on location in the former Soviet Union The brilliant ensemble consisted of about 200 entertainers including a choir and choreographic troupe, who traveled the front lines, entertaining Soviet troops by performing more than 1500 concerts during World War II. This entertaining DVD brings to life the essence of Russian music and performance with spectacular singing, dancing and acrobatics.

Songlist: Forward, on the Way, The Birch Tree, Under the Elm Tree, Under the Oak, Kamarinskaya, The Golden Rye, Dance of the Soldiers, Listen, Stenka Razin , Meadowland, Down the Peterskaya Road, The Gray Cuckoo, Dance of the Cossacks, Song of the Volga Boatmen, The Girl Next Door, Kalinka, Lovely Moonlit Night, Dance of the Zaporozhye Cossacks, Forward, on the Way (Reprise)

Review: The fruitful development of the English Anthem in the 20th century was made possible, some say, by the interest in the genre from composers who were unencumbered by church appointment. The Victorian flowering of English Anthems by Stanford was passed on to his student and successor at Cambridge, Wood, and other students Bainton, Ireland, Harris and Howells. Britten studied under Ireland at the Royal College of Music, and others studied at Oxbridge, Oxford and Cambridge. Stephen Cleobury directs the acclaimed 33-member, all male Choir of King's College in their renditions of these 13 pieces. Charles Wood's 'Hail, gladdening light,' Edgar Bainton's soaring 'And I saw a new heaven,' John Ireland's 'Greater love hath no man,' Wm. Harris' 'Faire is the heaven,' Edward Naylor's 'Vox dicentis: Clama,' Britten's 'A Hymn of St. Columbia,' Leighton's 'Let all the world in every corner sing'É this is not easily performed material, but the Choir effortlessly reaches the high scales and challenging harmonies. Light organ accompaniment on most songs, but the focus is on the voices. Dramatic, operatic compositions wonderfully performed by one of England's finest choirs.

Songlist: Ave Verum, Insanae et vanae curae , How lovely aree Thy dwellings , Ave verum , Ave maris stella , Locus iste, Denn er hat seinen Engeln , Where Thou reignest , Bring us, O Lord God, O! For a closer walk with God , Crucifixus , Pie Jesu Domini , O salutaris hostia , Cantique de Jean Racine, Thou, O God, art praiset , Hymn of the Cherubim , Ave Maria, Panis angelicus, Ave verum, Thou will keep him (Samuel Sebastian Wesley)

Review: Poulenc wrote his Stabat Mater, a hauntingly passionate work, after visiting the sacred shrine of the Black Madonna of Rocamadour. Poulenc's journey profoundly changed his life and work as a composer. Like the Stabat Mater, the Litanies ˆ la Vierge Noir is also inspired by the Black Virgin of Rocamadour. Recorded here in an unrivalled performance by the combined choirs of St. John's, Clare and Gonville and Caius Colleges, Cambridge, with the BBC Philharmonic with soprano Judith Howarth.

Songlist: Stabat mater dolorosa , Cujus animam gementem, O quam tristis, Quae moerebat, Quis est homo, Vidit suum, Eja mater, Fac ut ardeat, Sancta mater, Fac ut portem, Inflammatus et accensus, Quando corpus, Litanies a La Vierge Noire, Timor Et Tremor, Vinea Mea Electa , Tenebrae Factae Sunt, Tristis Est Anima Mea

Review: This special is the seventh in a popular series of PBS holiday concerts that have featured the St. Olaf Choir. The Christmas concert commemorates the centennial of Norway's independence and the cultural roots of St. Olaf College, founded in 1874 by Norwegian Lutheran immigrants. Singing in the majestic, 900-year-old Trondheim Cathedral was a highlight for the internationally known St. Olaf Choir, which has performed in prestigious music venues around the world since its founding in 1912 by F. Melius Christiansen, a Norwegian immigrant. Christiansen established the choir's distinctive style of a cappella singing, a tradition carried on today by artistic director and conductor-and St. Olaf College alumnus-Anton Armstrong.

Songlist: Introduction, Canticles Of Light, O Come All Ye Faithful, Lux Aurumque, O Helga Natt True Light, Intermission, Juleverset, O Yule, Full Of Grace, Jeg er sa' glad hver Julekveld, Carol Of The Bells, Lullyby On Christmas Eve, Our Father, Hope For Resolution, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Stay With Us, Beautiful Savior, Light Everlasting, Et Barn Er Fodt I Bethlehem, Julemotet, Geistliches Wiegenlied Op. 91 no. 2, Jeg Er Verdens Lys, O Day Full Of Grace

Review: The St. Olaf Choir was formed in 1911 by Dr. F Melius Christiansen, a Norwegian immigrant. So began a tradition of a cappella choral sacred music that remains strong and vital today. 23 pieces, such songs as Edward Elgar's 'Adagio,' Christiansen's 'Light Everlasting,' and 'The Song Of Peace,' Bartholdi's 'There Shall Be A Star,' Paulus' 'Pilgrim's Hymn,' Daniel Gawthrop's 'Mary Speaks,' Paul Lohman's 'What Child,' our friend Moses Hogan's arrangement of 'This Little Light of Mine,' Williams' 'Dona Nobis Pacem,' Hovland's 'Stay With Us' and 'Beautiful Savior.' The music is that of angels, and the focus of this wonderful CD is what the holiday is all about, the birth of Christ. Excellent!

Songlist: Adagio (Enigma Variations) (Edward Elgar), Light Everlasting (Olaf C. Christiansen), Keep Your Lamps (arr. Andre Thomas), There Shall A Star (Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy), Lost in the Night (arr. Kyle Haugen), Pilgrim's Hymn (Stephen Paulus), Adam Lay Ybounden (Richard Webster), All This Night (Robert Scholz), Mary Speaks (Daniel Gawthrop), Gloria (Jeffrey Rickard), What Child (Paul Lohman), Midnight Clear (Russell Schultz-Widmar, arr. Robert Scholz), Come to the Cradle (Cathy and Laura Conger, arr. Robert Scholz), The Song of Peace (Olaf C. Christiansen), The Little Light of Mine (arr. Moses Hogan), Oh, How Joyfully (Andrew Carter), Pat-A-Pan (Hershy Kay), Carols for Choir and Orchestra (arr. John Ferguson), O Day Full of Grace (Christoph E. F. Weyse, arr. F. Melius Christiansen), Dona Nobis Pacem (Ralph Vaughan Williams), Narration, Stay With Us (Egil Howland), Beautiful Savior (arr. F. Melius Christiansen)

Review: F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the Music Department at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, planned and directed the first St. Olaf Christmas Festival in 1912. Over the next 96 years the Festival has grown to include, as individual groups and as a massed ensemble, the St. Olaf Choir, the St. Olaf Orchestra, the St. Olaf Cantorei, The Manitou Singers and the Viking Chorus and Chapel Choir. The result of the coming together of all this huge and joyous talent easily fills two CDs, 30 pieces with some narration that tell the story of Christmas, beginning with the all-instrumental 'Messiah, Prince of Peace' and ending with F. Melius' gorgeous 'Beautiful Savior.' It's hard to pick favorites, but 'For Unto Us a Child is Born' from Handel's 'Messiah,' Steven Sametz' 'Noel!,' Carl Schalk's 'Before the Marvel of This Night,' Donald Fraser's 'This Christmastide' (Jessye's Carol), the 6-part medley 'Carols for the Choirs' arranged by John Ferguson, F. Melius' lovely 'Lullaby on Christmas Eve' and Arthur Honegger's 'And God Said: One Day Shall Dawn' (King David) come easily to mind.

Songlist: PBS Introduction, The Song of Peace, Messiah, Prince of Peace (Trinity Canticles), Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, For Unto Us A Child is Born (Messiah), In Terra Pax (Excerpt), Before the Marvel of this Night, Gloria, In Thee is Gladness, The Christmastide (Jessye's Carol), Conductors' And Students' Comments, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Noel!, Ding, Dong! Merrily on High, Glories Ring, Carols for the Choirs: He Came Down tha We May Have Love, Carols for the Choirs: Love Has Come, Carols for the Choirs: On Christmas Night, Carols for the Choirs: Toda La Tierra (All Earth Is Hopeful), Carols for the Choirs: Jeg er Sa Glad (I Am So Glad), Carols for the Choirs: Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht (Silent Night, Holy Night), Joy to the World, And God Said: One Day Shall Dawn (King David), Beautiful Savior

Review: Focusing on the life and works of William Byrd, this DVD has a playing time of over 3 hours and includes filmed performances by The Tallis Scholars, a documentary on the composer and over 50 minutes of bonus audio tracks. The filmed performances feature over 70 minutes of sacred music by Elizabeth I's favourite composer including the Mass for 4 Voices and Ave verum corpus. It is performed by candlelight in the beautiful surrounds of Tewkesbury Abbey and recorded in genuine surround sound. In a seventy-minute documentary produced for the BBC, Charles Hazlewood further explores the life and music of William Byrd and the troubled times that produced some of the most intimate and passionate sacred music ever written. Bonus audio tracks including Byrd's Mass for 5 voices and Mass for 3 voices result in the complete audio recordings of Byrd's Masses being available on this one DVD.

Songlist: Mass For 4 Voices, Ave verum corpus, Diffusa est gratia, Magnificat, Ne irascaris, Nunc dimittis, O Make Thy Servant, Elizabeth, Prevent Us, O Lord, Tristitia et Anxietas, Vigilate, Mass For 5 Voices, Mass for 3 Voices, Tribune Domine