Men's Choral Recordings

Men’s choral music spans the centuries, and well-sung choral music brings a lush joy to the ear, whether it is sacred or secular, plainsong, vocal chamber music, chant, madrigals, folk songs or even the music of U2! Many strong composers have written for the male ensemble over the centuries, and choirs today are singing the work of talents as diverse as Rutter and Henry VIII. Men’s ensembles around the world – and we carry recordings from such diverse nations as Estonia, Finland, Canada and Russia, to name just a few – deliver glorious, powerful work.

Bela Bartok Male Choir: Zoltan Kodaly - Choral Works For Male Voices

The Peacock
The Watchman Of Nandor
The Ruins
Bandi Bungozdi
The Son Of An Enslaved Country
God's Mercy
Evening Song
The Bachelor
The Filly
Songs From Karad
Soldiers' Song
Jezus Jesus Appeared
Hymn To St. Stephen
To The Changes In France
In A Fay's Album
National Song
Appeal
Justum Et Tenacem
La Marseillaise
Song Of Faith

Winners of twenty two prizes at both Hungarian and international choral competitions this top-notch male choir has toured extensively world-wide and have gained great acclaim as performers and interpreters of the works of Zoltan Kodaly. While only approx. 20% of Kodaly works were for male choir they are considered some of his best compositions. Seventeen of these 24 pieces are original with some based on folk songs and others on the 17th century poet Horace. Challenging but certainly worthwhile, this CD should be in everybody's collection of male choir recordings.

7986 CD $15.98

Academy of Choral Art - Victor Popov: Pearls of Traditional Music

This superb chorus sings a multiplicity of folk masterpieces: Russian, Gregorian, and Ukrainian. The authentic Russian songs offered generously on this program cover a wide range of genre and character, from love songs and coach tunes to peasant dances. The emotional range is broad as well, from subtle lyrics to boisterous joy. Each region represented reveals in its music an enriched experience of the uniqueness of its own culture. Sumptuous sound from top to bottom, pinpoint accuracy, electrifying virtuosity and great expressiveness. Selections range from old favourites like "Dark Eyes," the "Volga Boatman's Song," and "Kalinka," to much less familiar gems like "There is Birch in the Field" (Tchaikovsky Uses this theme in his Fourth Symphony.) The true joy in singing is everywhere evident.

8834 CD $15.95

Berliner Vokalensemble: German Folk Songs for Male Choir

All the singers of the Berlin Vocal Ensemble "Carl Maria von Weber" were members of the internationally-renowned Berlin Male Chorus. After the dissolution of his professional male chorus in 1995, choral director Andreas Wiedermann decided to risk a new start with these 14 experienced singers. 20 a cappella choral pieces, all sung in spirited German. Some favorites are "Das Wandern is des Mullers Lust," the title tune, "Kein Feuer, keine Kohle," "Die Vogelhochzeit," "Es flog ein alter Kafer," "Der jager aus Kurpfalz," "Der Speisezettel," "Ade zur guten Nacht," "Mein Madel hat einen Rosenmund," and "Das Lieben bringt gross Freud-Heitere Volksliederfolge."

7506 CD $15.98

Bowling Green State Men's Chorus: Lifted in Song

Exault Just In Domino
Praise The Lord
Ave Maria
Sing For Joy
What I HAve Done
Toccata Of Praise
Prayer Of The Children
Joshua
Walk In Jerusalem
Glory Manger
Christmas Comes Anew
Lifted In Song
If Music Be The Food Of Love
A Plea For Old Friends
A Drinking Song
Who Are The Brave
She Moved Through The Fair
Kpanlongo
Mouth Music
Songs From Matengo Folktales
Jenk's Vegetable Compound
Who's Lovin' You

Founded in 1923, the BGSU (Ohio) Men's Chorus (formerly the Men's Glee Club) has had its ups and downs (disbanding during WWII as choristers went off to war, for instance), but now, under the direction of renowned conductor William Skoog, the Chorus tours and performs in concert regularly. "Lifted in Song" is a collection of 22 varied songs, beginning with several spiritual tunes, "Exultate Jussti in Domino," Handel's "Praise the Lord," Jacob Arcadelt's "Ave Maria," Joseph Martin's "Toccata of Praise," "Prayer of the Children," "Joshua," "Christmas Comes Anew" and the title tune. Following that are Martin's "Who Are the Brave," Ron Jeffers' "A Drinking Song" and "A Plea For Old Friends," Timothy Takach's "She Moved Through The Fair," "Songs From Matengo Folktales" the King's Singers' a cappella "Jenk's Vegetable Compound," and Smokey Robinson's a cappella "Who's Lovin' You." Several songs are lightly accompanied. "Lifted" is full of good stuff, and goes a long way to uphold the BGSU's longstanding tradition as "America's Finest Singing Machine!"

8312 CD $15.98

Bowling Green State Men's Chorus: Songs For Today

"Song for Today" is a gem from the 1993 version of this legendary collegiate ensemble, who refer to themselves as "America's Finest Singing Machine" for good reason. The first half of the CD, 12 of 24 cuts, is spiritually oriented, including "Sing Dem Herrn," "O Regim Caeli," "Praise Him!," "Laudamus," "E'en So Lord Jesus Quickly Come," "God Is My Rock," "Heaven," "The Creation" and the spiritual, "Ride the Chariot." The second half is more secular material, "Selections from the Student Prince," the title tune, "She Is My Slender Small Love," "Let No Man Despise Thy Youth," "Polly Von," the lilting "From Boston Harbor," "Blue World," "Kiss the Girl" and the barbershop tune "Red Head." Spirited, powerful stuff from BGSU's talented young male singers, one of the best collegiate singing traditions of all time!

8313 CD $15.98

Bowling Green State Men's Chorus: 20th Anniversary

For over twenty years, the BGSU Men's Chorus has delighted audiences across the country. Their tradition of musical excellence can be heard on this recording honoring their twentieth anniversary. This CD encompasses a wide variety of styles and composers. Selections include "Lord, Make Me an Instrument of Thy Peace" by John Rutter, "The Last Words of David" by Randall Thompson, "Zion's Walls" Aaron Copland and Allegri's "Miserere." This group nicknamed America's Finest Singing Machine, gives great performances under the direction of Richard D. Mathey.

1530 CD $14.98

Byzantine Male Choir: Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

On the turn of the 20th century Greek Catholic sacred music held sway over much of the music scene of Sub-Carpathia, in the north-eastern part of Hungary. A great many members of the Byzantine-rite Rusyn clergy, as well as Hungarians, were well versed in music, which was put to use in maintaining high artistic standards in the daily liturgy. One significant master of this period was Joann (János) Boksay (1874–1940), a Greek Catholic celebrant, composer and church choirmaster. His output includes pieces for piano, dramatic incidental music and children’s operas, but his most important works are considered to be his ten Divine Liturgies of St John Chrysostom, four of which have survived. The most widely known one is the Mass in C major, composed in 1900, whose simple and pure melodies have earned it folk-hymn status among the Greek Catholics in the Munkács (Munkacevo, Ukraine), Eperjes (Presov, Slovakia), and Hajdúdorog eparchies.

8422 CD $15.98

BYU Men's Chorus: Praise Him

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
Fight The Good Fight With All Thy Might
Who Is He In Yonder Stall?
More Holiness Give Me
Awake, My Sons, Awake
Thou Art God
Praise Him
Isaiah 44.3
The Long Day Closes
Personent Hodie
Praise My Soul
Guide Us, O Thou Great Jehovah
Our Father
Kwmbayah
Shenandoah
Joshua Fit The Battle Of Jericho
Danny Boy
Polly Wolly Doodle
Down In The Valley

The BYU Men's Chorus' first two excellent releases, "Awake My Soul" and "Shout with Glory" whetted our appetite, and that of many fans, for their 3rd. For the long-awaited "Praise Him," conductor Rosalind Hall has assembled an exciting, heartfelt mix of religious texts with a nice set of folk and traditional songs to finish the program. 19 songs with some organ, horns, strings and percussion accompaniment. Favorites are the magnificent "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," "Fight The Good Fight With All Thy Might," the tender "More Holiness Give Me," "Awake My Sons, Awake," the Title Tune, Arthur Sullivan's "The Long Day Closes," "Praise My Soul," the beautiful hymn "Guide Us, O Thou Great Jehovah," and folksongs "Kumbayah," "Shenandoah," "Joshua Fit the Battle of Jerico," "Danny Boy" and "Down in the Valley." The bright, energetic, richly melodic sound of the BYU Men's Chorus contributes to its growing reputation as one of the premiere choral programs in the United States.

7951 CD $15.98

Cantus: Cantus

Introit: Benedicta sit Sancta Trinitas
Quatre Petit Prieres de Saint Francois d'Assise - Francis Poulenc
Salvation is Created (spaseniye sodjelal) - Pavel Chesnokov
Ave Dulcissima Mria - Morten Lauridsen
Last Letter Home - Lee Hoiby
Lullabye (Goodnight my Angel) - Billy Joel
Mogamigawa funa uta
Ramakali
Who's Loving You - Smokey Robinson
Pseudo Yoik - Jaakko Mantyjarvi
Dalvi duoddar luohti - Seppo Paakkunainen
Casey at the Bat - Peter Hamlin
I Can't Tarry

Cantus programming at its finest represents a great mix of styles and influences. On their latest release they decided to showcase all this variety on one recording. Included is a new commission from Lee Hoiby paired with a “Lullabye (Goodnight My Angel)” by Billy Joel. They include early 20th century Russian sacred music next to early 21st century American sacred music. They are two show-stoppers - the Smokey Robinson tune “Who’s Loving You” and ”I Can’t Tarry” a rousing African-American spiritual An amusing faux-Finnish piece precedes a semi-theatrical setting of “Casey at the Bat” and the lively programming keeps you listening from beginning to end, just as it does in their acclaimed live concerts.

Listen to "Pseudo Yoik" in RealAudio.

8698 CD $15.95

Cantus: There Lies The Home

Minnesota-based 11-strong all-male ensemble Cantus, since their founding at St. Olaf College in 1995 have had great fun performing around Minnesota, the country and the world, and recording excellent CDs ("There Lies The Home " is their 10th). The authentic folk songs and sea chantys in "Home" are popular choices in the group's repertoire. Some favorites are "Break, Break, Break," "Songs of the Sea," "Jonah's Song," "Shenandoah," "Lowlands," arranged by Alice Parker and Robert Shaw," Gordon Lightfoot's "Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" and Sting's "Valparaiso." Beautiful liner notes, some light accompaniment. Powerful and evocative music! Minnesota-based 11-strong all-male ensemble Cantus, since their founding at St. Olaf College in 1995 have had great fun performing around Minnesota, the country and the world, and recording excellent CDs ("There Lies The Home " is their 10th). The authentic folk songs and sea chantys in "Home" are popular choices in the group's repertoire. Some favorites are "Break, Break, Break," "Songs of the Sea," "Jonah's Song," "Shenandoah," "Lowlands," arranged by Alice Parker and Robert Shaw," Gordon Lightfoot's "Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" and Sting's "Valparaiso." Beautiful liner notes, some light accompaniment. Powerful and evocative music!

Listen to "Jonah's Song" in RealAudio.

8394 CD $15.98

Cantus: Deep River

"Cantus" is an eleven member all-male group hailing from St. Olaf's College in Minnesota. Their holiday disc includes many traditional favorites, such as "Coventry Carol," "Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming," and "God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen" and an original version of "Deck the Halls" (done in 5/4, with jazzy harmonies??, a definite departure from the style on the rest of the recording). "Riu, Riu, Chiu," sung in Spanish, and accompanied by appropriate percussion, accented like a russian song (ask the group about this.) The recording, made in a church, adds atmosphere and presence to the group's own melliflous blend; the notes "float" effortlessly as if weightless. The classically-trained voices are well-suited to the sacred material, the sound of which conveys allegiance to its origin centuries ago. A calming shelter from the Christmas frenzy.

Listen to "In Dat Great Gittin' Up Mornin'" in RealAudio.

6942 CD $15.98

Cantus: Against The Dying Of The Light

The 11 men who form the acclaimed Woodbury, MN-based Cantus bring us another perfectly crafted collection of sacred choral music. "Against" includes Sibelius' "Hymnus," Casals' "O Vos Omnes, Orff's Sunt Lacrimae Rerum, Tormis' Varjele, Jumala, soasta, Josquin's Absalon, fili mi, Sibelius' Sydameni Laulu," Schubert's "Grab und Mond," Jennings' "Two Laments on Dylan Thomas," Madetoja's "De Profundus," Thompson's "Alleluia," Debussy's "Invocation" and Barber's "Heaven-Haven." The CD is beautifully packaged, with a small book of all the lyrics poetically presented. One of the best male choruses in the world brings us a gift of timeless spiritual music-music that takes us to another reality, a place of benediction, praise and worship.

6761 CD $15.98

Cantus: Let Your Voice Be Heard

Cantus is a professional male vocal chamber ensemble dedicated to exalting the human spirit through the performance of innovative and engaging musical programs. Their focus is not only on singing the finest literature of the past but also to present new music created by group members or commissioned for the group. People may experience them through concerts, recordings, clinics and new musical scores. The 19 songs on "Let Your Voice" are an exciting mix: the title tune (African Jazz, with non-vocal percussion, which is present on other tracks),"Dravidian Dithyramb" (Indian Dance Music), "El Yivneh Hagalil" (Hebrew Folk Song), and "What Shall We Do the Drunken Sailor" (English Sea Shanty), share CD space with "Mata Del Anima Sola," a Venezuelan Joropo, "Shen Khar Venakhi (Georgian Wedding Song), "K'ang-ting Love Song" (Chinese Folk Song) and "Were You There" (African-American Spiritual). All songs feature innovative arrangements and often breathtaking spirit and energy. A rousing, powerful CD from an amazing, talented ensemble.

6806 CD $15.98

Cantus: Live Vol. 2

Cantus presents recordings from some of their recent concerts. Highlights include collaborations with the Saint Olaf Choir ("Beautiful Savior" and "Our Father"), guest conductors Dale Warland and Anton Armstrong and performances by Cantus’ tenth anniversary reunion choir (Alleluia," "Ave Maria," and "Salvation is Created"). Also included on this eclectic disc is the premiere of “Private First Class Jesse Givens,” a setting of a letter from a fallen U.S. soldier in Iraq by American composer Lee Hoiby. Cantus has rapidly developed into one of the finest male choral ensembles performing today and this recording accurately captures that talent.

8449 CD $15.95

Cantus: Vagabond

This young male ensemble from the great choral-producing regions of Minnesota, under the artistic direction of Erik Lichte, bring a fresh elegance and vitality to their repetoire. Cantus incorporates a wide variety of influences from across the globe. A contemporary setting of the Latin "Veni Creator Spiritus," is followed by three similar works, dating from Rennaissance or pre-Rennaissance. Ralph Vaughan Williams' "The Vagabond" is musically itinerant, restlessly drifting between tonalities. The melancholy "This Ol' Hammer," an African-American work song, has a solo lead on the verses, while the chorus echoes key phrases in assent; the arrangement manipulates the placement and number of voices throughout, adding and subtracting for variety and dynamic range. "One by One" is Zulu - sung in Zulu - with whoops and caterwauling, all very tuneful, of course. It's a jubilant finale. Songlist

6415 CD $15.98

Cantus: Introit

The young men of Cantus, an eleven-member ensemble from St. Olaf College, perform choral literature ranging from polyphony and chant to art songs and spirituals. Therefore the Latin "O Sacrum Convivium" (De Victoria) and Tallis' "If Ye Love Me" reside along a 20th century Gustafsson-composed "Kyrie" and "Gloria," the dissonant intervals heralding the epoch of modernism. "Nachtliches Standchen," a romantic lied, a form of which Schubert was master, is included, as is Finzi's "Thou Didst Delight My Eyes." "Shenandoah" and "Danny Boy" are quietly lambent; the acoustics of the church in Minnesota, where this CD was recorded, a perfect setting. Songlist

6468 CD $15.98

Cantus: Tidings

"Cantus" is an eleven member all-male group hailing from St. Olaf's College in Minnesota. Their holiday disc includes many traditional favorites, such as "Coventry Carol," "Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming," and "God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen" and an original version of "Deck the Halls" (done in 5/4, with jazzy harmonies??, a definite departure from the style on the rest of the recording). "Riu, Riu, Chiu," sung in Spanish, and accompanied by appropriate percussion, accented like a russian song (ask the group about this.) The recording, made in a church, adds atmosphere and presence to the group's own melliflous blend; the notes "float" effortlessly as if weightless. The classically-trained voices are well-suited to the sacred material, the sound of which conveys allegiance to its origin centuries ago. A calming shelter from the Christmas frenzy. Songlist

6467 CD $15.98

Cantabile: Lullabyes and Goodbyes

Lullabye (Goodnight My Angel) - Billy Joel
Evening Prayer - Humperdink
Barcarolle - Offenbach
Hushabye - Sherman
Wiegenlied - Brahms
Bilbo's Last Song - Swann
lullaby - Gershwin
Haere Ra - Traditional
Hawaiian Lullaby - Sargent
Moonshine Lullaby - Berlin
Cancion De Cuna Para Dormir A Un Negrito - Mont salvatge
My Lagan Love - Trad.
Schlaendes Jesuskind - Wolf
Lullaby Of Birdland - Shearing
Oblivion - Monteverdi
Discendi, O Sonno Vago - Auber
Lullaby - Cantabile
Nacht Und Traume - Schubert
Bilbo's Last Song - Oliver
Stay Awake - Sherman
Goin' Home - Dvorak
Our Revel Now Are Ended - Dankworth
Counting Up My Toes - Cullen

Cantabile is an ensemble of four male voices who came together as a group while studying at Cambridge University in the 1980s and have gone on to become one of England's premiere choral ensembles. The programme on this release is a very eclectic mix with nearly all the music excellently arranged by the group themselves. The singing itself is all first class. The four voices blend beautifully and there isn't a sour note to be heard. Diction is consistently crystal clear although texts and English translations, where appropriate, are provided. As you'd expect, the contribution of Malcolm Martineau is first rate. There's a great deal to enjoy here and I can imagine this being particularly restful and enjoyable late evening listening, perhaps with the fire burning gently and a glass of something warming at your elbow. Try this for something a bit different!

8341 CD $15.98

Cantabile: In Cambridge

Recorded live in - you guessed it - in Cambridge, this male quintet is a stylistic whisper away from the King's Singers, both in terms of sound and choice of material, though the influence of the Swingles can be felt as well ("The History of Western Music"). The selections on this CD encompass several centuries, beginning with William Byrd's "Deo Gratias." Embracing the British folk ballad (Morley and Henry the VIII), and the European classical form (Chopin), the group then travels forward in time to include period classics suc
Songlist

6481 CD $15.98

Cantabile: Madrigal to McCartney

"Madrigal" was recorded at Victoria Memorial Hall in Singapore in February 2001, and features 15 tunes, ranging from sacred early Christian music like Weelkes' "Hark, all ye lovely Saints above," Passereau's "Il est bel et bon," and Wm. Byrd's "Agnus Dei" to a wonderful "Tribute to the Beatles" medley of 18 Fab Four classics and "Yesterday," to Gershwin's "Summertime," Rodgers and Hart's "My Romance" and Sinatra's "Strangers in the Night." Two bonus tracks include Richard Rodney Bennett's "A Good Night," commissioned by Paul McCartney from "A Garland for Linda," and "Brahm's Lullaby." Certainly an odd repertoire mix, but Cantabile's perfectly pitched, fresh, joyous sound works well with just about anything they choose to perform.

6954 CD $15.98

Chanticleer

Chanticleer, which takes its name from the "clear-singing" rooster in Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, is the only full-time classical a cappella ensemble in the U.S but has garnered international acclaim with performances around North America, Europe and Asia. With its seamless blend of male voices ranging from counter-tenor to bass, Chanticleer has earned its reputation as "an orchestra of voices."

And On Earth, Peace: A Chanticeer Mass

Da Pacem Domine
Deus, Deus Meus, Respice In Me (Andrea Gabrieli)
Kyrie (Douglas Cuomo)
(Gloria) Everywhere (Kamrain Ince)
O Vos Omnes (Gesualdo)
Aestimatus (Gesualdo)
Credo/Ani Ma'Amin (Shulamit Ran)
O Salutaris Hostia (Andrea Gabrieli)
Ravenna Sanctus (Ivan Moody)
Peccantem Me Quotidie (Gesualdo)
Agnus Dei (Michael McGlynn)
Da Pacem, Domine

With its seamless blend of twelve male voices, ranging from countertenor to bass, the San Francisco-based ensemble Chanticleer, celebrates the life of their founder Louis I. Botto on the 10th anniversary of his death. Five composers create a mass that evolves organically, as if written by one hand and the ensemble brings it to life. Using Gregorian Chant as a foundation this Mass evolves organically, as if written by one hand. These composers bring international prestige to the project as well as vastly different life paths and points of view. Israeli-born composer Shulamit Ran wrote the Credo to the Hebrew text "Ani Ma'amin." Well-known television composer Douglas Cuomo contributed the Kyrie. Turkish-American Kamran Ince composed the Gloria section in to a sufi text, while Ivan Moody, drawing from the Greek Orthodox tradition, delivered the Sanctus. The Irish folk and medieval music-influenced composer Michael McGlynn (Anuna) composed the Agnus Dei. To seamlessly travel from one composer to the next, Chanticleer offers haunting and beautiful pieces by Gesualdo, Part, Binchois, and Gabrieli.

Listen to "O Salutaris Hostiam" in Real Audio.

8627 CD $16.95

Sound in Spirit

"Sound in Spirit" is a totally new direction for this Bay Area-based 12-man group, in that it is the first Chanticleer recording to be conceived as a total experience—there is no silence or space between tracks. Ideally it should be listened to without pause. It is the first to add outdoor ambient sounds and to incorporate "overtone singing." The music extends from ancient sacred chants to music composed at the recording sessions themselves; all as seen through the creative eyes of composer/arranger Joseph Jennings and Chanticleer, his "Orchestra of Voices." There are 14 "cuts," beginning with Jan Gilbert's "Incantation" (from NightChants), and ending with Gilbert's "Grace to You" (from NightChants). In between are Nectarie Viahul's "Axion Estin," Jennings' title tune and "Night Spirit Song," Carlos Rivera's "Motet for 12 Singers," the Jennings-arranged "Beata" plainsong, de Victoria's "O Sacrum Convivium," Gilbert's "NightChant," Jackson Hill's "In Winter's Keeping," Giacinto Scelsi's "Gloria in Excelsis Deo," Sarah Hopkins' "Past Life Memories," Patricia Van Ness' "Cor Meum Est Templum Sacrum" and others. "Sound" is a surprising, moving, eclectic piece that takes us to places of meditation, wonder and mystery. A beautiful, very special CD from Chanticleer that needs to be listened to again and again to be fully appreciated.

Listen to "O Sacrum Convivium" in Real Audio.

7832 CD $15.98

How Sweet The Sound

A departure from their usual style, How Sweet the Sound is a rare treat from Chanticleer. Featuring all new arrangements by Joseph Jennings, the group gives a deeply heartfelt performance. The opening song "Jesus Hits Like An Atom Bomb," with soloist Kevin Baum, is an explosive beginning to this recording of spirituals and traditional gospel music. Guest artist Bishop Yvette A. Flunder sings with amazing power and soul and greatly enhances this album. In addition to his leadership, Jennings also lends his voice and piano skills to several tunes. These songs are some of America's greatest music

Listen to "Keep Your Hand on the Plow" in Real Audio.

7263 CD $15.98

Our American Journey

"Our American Journey" is, incredibly, legendary group Chanticleer's 25th CD, and it celebrates the music of America, from sacred motets by 17th century Mexican composers to shape-note hymns to newly-commissioned works on American themes. It is a showcase of the rich traditions and also of the creative tension between unity and diversity that are inherent in American music and in American life. Chanticleer's Music Director Joseph Jennings, who adapted and arranged a number of the works, said, "(The CD) captures the essence of what we do when we're on the road, and how we want to present ourselves." Some favorites: "Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah," "Wayfarin' Stranger," Stephen Foster's "Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair" and "Camptown Races," "Jefferson," "David's Lamentation," "Willow Weep for Me," and the commissioned works "Whispers" and "The Un-covered Wagon." Excellent!

Listen to "Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair" in Real Audio.

6755 CD $15.98

Wondrous Love: A World Folk Song Collection

Whatever the thematic material, Chanticleer's approach is the most erudite; indeed, their analysis of each song's history and composition meets the highest critical standard. It is this absolute musical integrity that then informs the quality of the performance. On "Wondrous Love," a cache of international folk songs, sung a cappella, is the basis for this meticulous study. Folk songs, by definition, are "for the people"; Chanticleer maintains this focus while also seizing the opportunity to enrich the original arrangements with new complexity and depth, as heard on "Arirang," a Korean song utilizing the pentatonic scale with elements of western harmony, or "La Petenera," which begins with a soloist and then gradually incorporates twelve voices into an ever-expanding confluence of countermelody. A Robert Shaw/Alice Parker arrangement graces the fifteenth-century French tune, "L'Amour De Moy."

6318 CD $15.98
Byrd: Missa In Tempore Paschali
6307 CD$15.98
Antoine Brumel
6321 CD$15.98
Where the Sun Will Never Go Down

6309 CD$15.98
Out of this World
6312 CD$15.98
Mysteria: Gregorian Chants
6315 CD$15.98
With A Poet's Eye
6314 CD$15.98
The Anniversary Album
6308 CD$15.98
Lost In The Stars
6317 CD$15.98
Josquin/Agricola
6311 CD$15.98
Sing We Christmas
6316 CD$15.98

Chor Leoni: Circle of Compassion

And Death Shall Have No Dominion (Kenneth Jennings)
Beati Mortui (Felix Mendelssohn)
Christmas in the Trenches (John McCutcheon)
Dulce et Decorum (Larry Nickel)
O Vos Omnes (Pablo Casals)
Dirge from Cymbeline (Conrad Susa)
Tarantella Randall Thompson)
Psaume 121 (Darius Milhaud)
Vechnaya Pamiat (from Panhida No. 2) (Pavel Chesnokov)
Iltapilvia (Toivo Kuula)
Choose Something Like a Star (from Frostiana) (Randall Thompson)
Reconciliation (Stephen Chatman)
Furusato (Teiichi Okano)
Der 23, Psalm (Franz Schubert)
Pensive on Her Dead Gazing (Stephen Smith)
Bring Him Home (from Les Miserables)

Chor Leoni is well known for its Remembrance day concerts, and this latest addition to its CD catalogue is a compilation of works performed at its most recent November concerts. "Is is dedicated to the citizens of all nationalities and faiths who have experienced loss and who deserve our compassion," writes conductor Diane Loomer. The singing is sensitive and beautiful as always, and the selections range from classics such as Schubert's setting of Psalm 23 and Randall Thompson's Choose Something Like a Star to works written for Chor Leoni, including the premiere recording of Stephen Smith's moving Pensive on Her Dead Gazing. And just try to stay dry-eyed during Bring Him Home from Les Misérables!

8714 CD $15.95

Chor Leoni: Canadian Safari 2

Royal Hudson (Dave Baker)
RIse Again (Leon Dubinsky)
The Skye Boast Song (Traditional)
The Old "Mayflower" (Newfoundland Folk Song)
Watching the Apples Grow (Stan Rogers)
Feller from Fortune (Newfoundland Folk Song)
Dondaine la ridaine (Quebec Folk Song)
Indian Reels (Quebec Traditional)
Trinque l'amourette (Quebec Folk Song)
In the Early Morning Rain (Gordon Lightfoot)
The Maple Leaf Forever (Alexander Muir)
Amazing Grace (Traditional)
All the Diamonds (Bruce Cockburn)
The Nancy (Stan Rogers)
Heather Bonn/Island Ferry (Mad Pudding)
The Black Fly Song (Wade Hemsworth)
April in Whitehorse (Murray Grand)
The Mary Ellen Carter (Stan Rogers)
Blow the Wind Southerly (Northumberland Folk Song)
Springtime in Alberta (Ian Tyson)
Frobisher Bay (James Gordon)
The Field Behind the Plow (Stan Rogers)
Kettl Valley Railroad (Dave Baker)
The Williams Lake Stampede (Alan Moberg)
Canadian Pacific (Ray Griff)

Diane Loomer, founder of Chor Leoni in 1992 with the purpose of singing the best, most difficult “classical” works for male choir, is unable to explain how the lions have now recorded their 3rd CD of folk songs. One good reason seems to be that Canadian folk music is the art of the people–sometimes rough, sometimes achingly beautiful, humorous, whimsical, warm and full of heart. Although they are using more accompaniment now and have performed with several symphony orchestras, the spirit, energy and sheer vocal power of Chor Leoni is as infectious as ever. “Safari 2” is a generous 2-CD collection of 25 tunes. Many favorites, but in particular “Royal Hudson,” the foot-stomping “Watching the Apples Grow,” “Feller from Fortune,” “Trinque l’amourette,” Gordon Lightfoot’s classic “In the Early Morning Rain,” the rousing “The Nancy,” “The Black Fly Song,” “The Mary Ellen Carter,” “The Field Behind The Plow,” “The Williams Lake Stampede” and “Canadian Pacific.” A powerful, big fun 6th CD from the lions of the North country!

7276 CD $15.98

Chor Leoni: Canadian Safari

Chor Greek for choir, Leoni, (Italian for Lions) was formed in 1992 by director Diane Loomer to give skilled male singers an opportunity to gather and sing challenging repertoire. Quality a cappella singing, strong arrangements and a willingness to "try anything once" have led these 46 men to the upper echelons of the Canadian choral world. This CD is a treat for us fans of folk music, 20 better- and lesser-known Canadian folk songs, from "Fogarty's Cove" ("She cries when I'm away to sea, nags me when I'm with her, She'd rather I'd a government job or maybe go on the dole"), "Vive L'Amour," and "Away From The Roll of the Sea" to the Nova Scotia folk song "The Carrion Crow," "Northwest Passage," "Wood River," the British Columbia tune "Grand Hotel" and "Make and Break Harbor," this is all great stuff. Some light accompaniment here and there by piano, clarinet, bass, harmonica, guitar and spoons, but make no mistake?the focus is one of the best male choruses we've heard, and folk music is their meat. From the deep bass harmonies to sweet, soaring tenor solos, "Safari" is cut after cut of achingly lovely, heartstrings-tugging stuff!

6767 CD $15.98

Chor Leoni: Goin' Home

Goin' Home is Chor Leoni's sixth CD - each one we rave about, and each one is better than the last! Internationally acclaimed conductor Diane Loomer's flawless direction and song selection keep the Vancouver, BC-based all-male choir going in the right direction. As Canada is composed of citizens from every corner of the world, the object of "Goin'" was to collect and present folk songs from many of these countries, in the hope that CL's audience would experience "the bittersweet tightness in the throat and tear in the eye that only comes when you are goin' home." 18 richly textured a cappella songs, beginning with 3 dramatic Ainu folk tunes, "Bear Festival," "Piraka" and "Whale Festival," and continuing with "Fenyang Ge" and "Minoi, Minoi," Anhui and Samoan folk songs, respectively. Following are the Lapp folk song, "Dalvi duoddar luohti," and one of the best covers of the Zulu tune "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" we've heard. German, English, Irish, Estonian, and Welsh folk songs delight the crowd (this is a live performance, although the audience is almost edited out). A couple of nice American songs, the Appalachian folk song "Bright Morning Star" and "Shenandoah," precede the title tune by Antonin Dvorak, the Scottish tune "Loch Lomond" and "Christmas Angel." Sweet harmonies and what we can only call "personality" pour forth from CL like water from a Canadian stream. Recommended!

Listen to "Fengyang Ge" in Real Audio.

6863 CD $15.98

Chor Leoni: Chor Leoni

This fifth release from Vancouver's pride of lions features a mostly sacred and deeply moving program of works ranging from the 12th to the 20th centuries. Canadian baritone Bret Polegato guests on one of the few non-sacred pieces, Schubert's beautiful Stnchen for soloist and men's choir. Other highlights include 12th century organum by Pérotin, Beata Viscera, excerpts from Caplet's Messe û trois voix, a beautiful and seamless performance of Faure's Cantique de Jean Racine transcribed for men's voices, and Michael Head's stunning How Sweet the Moonlight Sleeps.

6864 CD $15.98

Collegium Regale: Lassus

Lamentatio Prima
Lamentatio Secunda
Lamtatio Tertia
Motet: In Monte Oliveti
Tract: Absolve, Domine
Introitus: Requiem Aeternam
Kyrie Eleison
Gradule: Si Ambulem
Offertoriu: Domine Jesu Christe
Sanctus
Agnus Dei
Communio: Lux Aeterna
Motet: Vide Homo

During the last thirty years of his life, Orlande De Lassus was the most celebrated composer in Europe. From the time that he took up the duties of maestro di cappella in the court of the Dukes of Bavaria at Munich, he began to be called ‘prince of musicians’ and ‘the divine Orlande’. The pieces selected for this recording represent Lassus’s treatment of them of death during the mature period. The first group considers the death of Christ; the second, the death of a Christian. Stephen Cleobury is associated with two of the most famous choirs; as Director of Music at King’s College, Cambridge and Chief Conductor of the BBC Singers.

8325 CD $15.98

Collegium Regale: Carry Me Home

Carry me home is an assortment of folk songs arranged for male voices including "Londonderry Air" and "O Waly Waly". Collegium Regale, which is composed of the choral scholars from the King's College Choir, explores the traditional songs of Britain, America, France and Hungary. Many of these familiar tunes, such as "Molly Malone" and "Shenandoah" were arranged by Keith Roberts who serves as the group's artistic consultant. The spirituals arranged by Robert Rice stray from the traditional style. His versions lean toward the lighter sounds of doo-wop and barbershop, particularly in "Sometimes I feel like a motherless child." Though, all pieces and especially the solos are sung beautifully.

6813 CD $15.98

Collegium Regale: Christmas with

The incomparable sound of the men of King¹s College is unleashed on everything from chant to Rudolph, the Red-nosed Reindeer. Close harmonies, impeccable tuning, and perfect programming make this a "must-have" CD for connoisseurs of the very best in choral singing. 22 songs: Handl¹s "Ante luciferum gentus," Byrd¹s "O magnum mysterium," "Puer natus est," "Ecce advenit," "The Coventry Carol," "Es ist ein Ros¹ entsprungen," "There is no rose of such virtue," "Beata es, Virgo Maria," "Quem vidistis, pastores?," "Hodie Christus natus est"... the Scholars make each song a lovely gem.

6812 CD $15.98

Copenhagen Royal Chapel Choir: Danish Choral Music in the 20th Century

Founded as the Copenhagen Boys' Choir in 1924, the Choir was permanently connected with the Christiansborg Slotskirke (Chapel of Christiansborg Castle) in 1959. With a repertoire ranging from commissioned works by the leading composers of our time to the earliest polyphony, the choir has earned a reputation over the years of being one of the finest of its type, giving concerts all over the world. Here are 14 sacred songs and hymns, favorites are Carl Nielsen's "Benedictus," Lewkowitch's "Salve Regina" and "Alma redemptoris," Norgard's "Agnus Dei II," and Ruders' "I sne star urt." Sublime, soaring, magnificent music from one of Denmark's oldest and most respected men's choirs.

7763 CD $15.98

Cwmbach Male Choir: A Christmas Celebration

The Cwmbach Male Choir was formed in 1921, and has survived to the present day even though it was severely tested by periods of hardship, depression and World War 2. During its 83 years it has flourished and built up an enviable record of success in competitions and concert performances. The musical repertoire of the Choir is wide and varied. It includes music for all tastes, ranging from operatic choruses, spirituals, hymns, folk music and popular ballads. The Choir, from the Cynon Valley, maintains the great Welsh tradition of male singing and this recording of holiday favourites is a treat.

8356 CD $15.98

Don Cossack Choir: Don Cossack Choir

The Anthem Of Don Cossacks And Along The St. Petersburg Rd.
Snow Covered Russia
Near The river Don
Song Of Prince Oleg
Song Of The River Kama
Selections From Tchaikovsky's Opera
A Live For The Czar
Old Waltz
Uncle Pakhom And My Shawn
Borodino
A Gypsy Camp Fire
The Wind Is Blowing And I Go Down The River
By Jordan River
Kalinushka
The Golden Bee
Midnight In Russia
Stenka Russia
Don't Dance Gregory
The Legend Of The 12 Robbers
I Love A Girl
The Hoop Has Broken
Black Eyes
You Lazy Gregory
Oh, My Little Soul
Lara's Song
Mother Let Me Dig A Well
My Belliflowers My Steppe Flowers
Carpathian Song
Have Mercy
Don't Ask Me Again
Narrow Path
Hey Troika

The famous Don Cossack Choir under Serge Jaroff was one of Russia's best and on the first CD of this set these male singers perform a series of Russian traditional songs and arrangements of music by composers such as Tchaikovsky and Glinka. The second CD features bass-baritone Michael Minsky whose classic authentic Russian sound is bound to stir the hearts of lovers of mother Russia.

Listen to "Borodino" in Real Audio.

8489 2CDs $9.95

Die Singphoniker: Singphonic Rossini

Giacchino Rossini (1792-1868):
Preghiera
Chant funebre
La Notte di Santa Natale
Toast pour le nouvel an (arr. A. Brandl)
Choeur de chasseus democrates
Overture - Il barbiere di Siviglia (arr. B. Taurus)
Franz Schubert (1797-1828):
La Pastorella
Der Gondelfahrer
Giacchino Rossini:
I Gondolieri (arr. Ch. M. Schmidt)
Overture - La gazza ladra (arr. Ch. M. Schmidt)
L'invito (arr. Ch. M. Schmidt)
La Danza (arr. G. Muhling)
Un Sou (arr. A. Brandl)
Overture - Guillaume Tell (arr. B. Taurus)

Focussing on little-known and rarely performed Romantic European vocal chamber music of the 19th century, the 6 men of Singphoniker bring us 12 difficult works by Gioacchino Rossini (1792-1868), and two by Franz Schubert, "La Pastorella" and "Der Gondelfahrer." Some favorites are "Chant funebre" (which includes some drums), "La Notte di Santo Natale," (with piano), "Choeur de chasseurs democrates," "L'invito," "La Danza," "Un Sou," and "Overture Guillaume Tell" (with piano). It's very clear, especially in this last cut, with the addition of silly sound effects, that the group is having big fun on stage and not taking themselves or the material too seriously. Good stuff!

7112 CD $15.98

Die Singphoniker: Singphonic Reger and Strauss

The six German men who call themselves Die Singphoniker are virtuosos who specialize in very difficult pieces, from Gregorian chant to the Avantgarde, in this case bringing us some rarely-heard works of Romantic European music, partsongs by Richard Strauss and Max Reger. New interpreters of vocal chamber music of the 19th century, the group's success is measured in many awards and rave reviews: its last five CDs have received prizes. Included are 20 pieces, favorites are "Frohlich im Maien," "Hut du dich!," "Liebe op. 42,1," and Der Brauttanz op. 45,3" by Strauss; and "Liebchens Bote," Frohsinn op. 38,5," "Hochsommernacht op. 83,5" and "Minnelied op. 83,7" by Reger. Difficult, eclectic choral music, effortlessly and beautifully performed.

7038CD $15.98

Die Singphoniker: Deutsche Volkslieder - German Folksongs

Their repertoire ranges from Gregorian chant to contemporary music – all the way to easy listening. After 25 years in the limelight, the six-voice vocal ensemble can look back on over 1000 concerts throughout the world. For the first time, however, the Singphoniker are releasing a CD with German folksongs. Their program consists of works by Silcher, Brahms and Reger, each of whom had a completely different approach to handling old tunes. Their common goal, however, was a desire to reacquaint their contemporar-ies with the vast treasures in the folk repertoire. The Singphoniker’s CD will contribute to making known as well as unknown folksongs – which are not very at-home in the concert hall – resound again in the private environment: singing or humming along is expressly desired!

8444 CD $15.98

Ensemble Amarcord: Hear The Voices

If Ye Love Me - Tallis
Quatre Petites Prieres De Saint Francois d'Assise - Poulenc
Herr, Lehre Doch Mich - Mauersberger
Magnus es Tu Domine - Des Prez
Psaume 121 - Milhaud
Ave Verum Corpus - Byrd
Sunt Lacrimae Rerum - La Rue
Ach Wie Nichtig Ach Wie Fluchtig - Cornelius
De Profundis - Mauersberger
Hear The Voice And Prayer - Tallis
Tenebrae - Ludwig

"Hear the Voices" is not just the line of a prayer appearing several times on this CD, but also an appeal to the listeners –– to listen between the lines, to hear the centuries between the lives of the various composers, between them and us, to hear the links between their styles of composition, the subtle nuances with which certain words are interpreted by sounds. This all calls for more careful attention than simple “listening”. The musical journey starts in France, before taking us back half a millennium to the Flemish region with Luther as our guide. Then there’s a little detour to the Iberian Peninsula, a trip to the British Isles, before we finally return to amarcord’s native skies in present-day Germany.

8551 CD $15.95

Ensemble Amarcord: And So It Goes

Former choristers from Bach's own church make up this German version of The King's Singers. This contemporary a cappella program ranges from Billy Joel to Supertramp to a Cuban love song, and a superb cover of Sinéad O'Connor's "In This Heart". These are great male choral interpretations of popular songs that are sure to delight.

8552 CD $15.95

Ensemble Amarcord: Book of Madrigals

A musical journey to sixteenth-century Europe with secular vocal music of the Renaissance! The vocal ensemble amarcord brilliantly interprets the music of this epoch in its newest production “The Book of Madrigals” (RK ap 10106). With this CD, the young ensemble presents Renaissance music and madrigals by European composers such as John Dowland, Thomas Morley, Ludwig Senfl, Adriano Banchieri, Orlando de Lasso, and Josquin des Prez. Cipriano de Rore’s “Anchor che col partire” – one of the most popular madrigals of its time, and in arrangements and adaptations still an “evergreen” over a century later – is also masterfully sung here. With the release of “The Book of Madrigals,” amarcord has added another impressive CD to its discography.

9860 CD $16.95

Estonian National Male Choir: Visions Of Estonia 3

The Singer
Songs Of The Ancient Sea
Plague Memory
Bridge Song
Going To War
Dialectical Aphorisms
Song About Level Land
We Are Given
An Aboriginal Song
The Estonians Political Parties Game
Song About Keeping Together
Martinmas Songs
Christmas Is Coming
Shrovetide Song
Three I Had Those Words Of Beauty

The third collection under the title "Vision of Estonia" continues recording the work of Estonian composer Veljo Tormis by the veteran Estonian National Male Choir. All song titles and lyrics of the piece are in Estonian. These lyrics, their meanings, and the history of the composer, the choir, and this dramatic, powerful piece are included in the extensive liner notes. The deeply emotional composition, written under the thumb of the Soviet occupation of Estonia, is divided into 32 movements--from the eight parts of "Dialektilisi aforisme," all less than a minute in length, and the 9-minute "Muistse mere laulud" to the intense 2 -minute "Sottaminck." "Vision III" a difficult, eclectic work that explodes into non-vocal percussion and vocal outbursts of protest and pride. Luckily, it is being sung by one of the best all-male choirs in the world, who perform it with tremendous spirit and feeling. Some accompaniment.

Listen to Shrovetide Song in Real Audio

8484 CD $15.98

Estonian National Male Choir: Visions of Estonia Vol 2

Estonian composer Veljo Tormis (1930-) emphasizes the role of verbal text and its message in his compositions, directed at the present, past and future of Estonian life. Written for men's chorus, "Visions of Estonia II" records in music the anxiety that was suppressed through the decades of Soviet repression. With "The Ballad of Mary's Land," composed in 1969, Tormis began a series of powerful large-scale choral compositions containing also his most famous work, "The Curse Upon Iron" for mixed chorus, written in 1972. "Reflections with Hando Runnel" (1981), is one of a series of short, sarcastic songs of protest he wrote during that period. "Days of Outlawry," with the subject of resistance fighting, was written for the banned film "The Outlaws;" "Journey of the War Messenger" and "Let The Sun Shine" take their texts from the Estonian National epic "Kalevipoeg." "Forget-me-not" is a national lament dedicated to former chief conductor Gustav Ernesada. Although none of these 23 songs is in English, we can feel the power and Tormis' deep feeling within this music through the performance of the Estonian National Male Choir.

7283 CD $15.98

Estonian National Male Choir: Visions of Estonia

Veljo Tormis is best known for his preservation of folk songs and folklore in his music. On Vision of Estonia, his concern for the oppression of the Estonian people is mixed with this aspect. These pieces for male choir are fantastic. The title piece "Vision of Estonia" was written during the fall of the Soviet Union and finished when Estonian independence was declared. Tormis is also known for his orchestral choral sounds. In "Incantation for the Sea" and "Litany to Thunder" he translates the dramatic images depicted in the poetry into massive choral sounds. "Incantation for the Sea" comes from the epic poem Kalevala. Due to international interest in his music, Tormis uses a Latin translation to make his piece widely accessible to non-Estonian speaking choirs. The Estonian National Male Choir, led by Ants Soots, is dynamic in this music which honors their country.

7171 CD $15.98

Heart and Voice Men's Chorus: Rise Up, O Men of God

O Sing Ye to the Lord - Giuseppe Pitoni / Norman Greyson
What Wondrous Love - J. Harold Moyer
Gott ist die Liebe August Rische / Thuringer Melody - James Bixel
There is a Balm in Gilead - William L. Dawson
Ye Sons and Daughters - Wayne Hooper
Salvation Belongeth to Our God - Pavel Grigorevich Tchesnokov-
Prayer of the Children - Andrea S. Klause
Rise Up, O Men of God - Kenneth Jennings
Infant Holy, Infant Lowly - Tim Fisher
We've Got Good News to Tell - Don Besig
The Snow Lay on the Ground - Tim Fisher
Rise Up Shepherd - Frank Almond
Done Made My Vow - Wendell Whalum
Judgment Day - Wayne Hooper
Homeward Bound - David Seitz
The Peace of the Lord - N. Grant Pfeifer

The Heart and Voice weekend for men, who hail from Ohio, North and South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Florida, Virginia and West Virginia, seeks to encourage choral excellence and true worship. The men learn the music prior to coming for a weekend of workshops and rehearsal, after which the programs, directed by Brandon Mullet, a music teacher and choral director at Faith Builders Educational Programs in Guys Mills, PA. The group has met and sung together since 1999. 16 lovely, inspirational songs: "O Sing Ye to the Lord," "What Wondrous Love," the spirituals "There is a Balm in Gilead," "Rise Up Shepherd," "Done Made My Vow" and "Homeward bound Kurt Bestor's "Prayer of the Children," the powerful "Rise Up, O Men of God," and N. Grant Pfeifer's lovely "The Peace of the Lord." This is as beautiful and powerful a collection of spiritual songs as we have heard, don't miss this one!

8837 CD $15.95

Henry's Eight: Pierre de la Rue - Missa cum iucunditat

Directed by Jonathan Brown the acclaimed English a cappella octet sing the motets of Clemens non Papa, Josquin, Ockeghem, Willaert and with a special focus on the works of Pierre de La Rue (c.1452-1518). La Rue wrote masses, motets, Magnificats, settings of the Lamentations, and chansons, and overall showed more diversity than almost any of the other composers of his generation, except perhaps for Josquin. La Rue's motets are mostly for four voices; they use pervasive imitation, though not usually at the outset (unlike the style of Josquin).

8388 CD $15.95

Hilliard Ensemble : English and Italian Renaissance Madrigals

Italian Madrigals by
Giovanni Giacomo Gastoldi
Antonio Caprioli
Philippe Verdelot
Jacques Arcaldet
Francesco PatavinoMaddalena Casulana
Luca Marenzio
Cipriano da Rore
Giovan Domenico da Nola
Adrian Willaert
Vincenzo Bell'Haver
Orlando di Lasso

This is a two CD set, CD #1 has 71 minutes of Italian madrigals, CD #2 has 55 minutes of English madrigals. Perhaps the most important secular musical development of the 16th century, the madrigal had its fullest flowering in Italy, where Franco-Flemish composers Phillippe Verdelot, Adrian Willaert and Jacques Arcadelt, born in northern Europe, spent their working lives. In England Thomas Morley, John Wilbye and Thomas Weelkes succeeded in producing some real masterpieces. There are 26 cuts on disc #1, all in Italian, "Cantiam lieti cantiamo," "Una leggiadra nimpha," "Con l'angelica riso," "Donne, venete al ballo"ćall flow like sweet water from this talented, precise British sextet. Disc 2 has 22 cuts, all in English: Morley's "April is in my mistress' face," Wilbye's "Sweet honey sucking bees," Weelkes' "O care thou wilt dispatch me," Orlando Gibbons' "The Silver Swan"ćand they are equally fine. Recommended.
7011 2 CD SET$12.98


Hilliard Ensemble : Medieval English Music

Towards the end of the 14th century, England saw the rise of a pleasingly consonant musical style that was admired abroad as the "English manner." Paul Hillier and the Hilliard Ensemble are heard in a selection of the most beautiful polyphonic songs and carols from this rich period. "The performances? match the beauty of the music? a sound of remarkable purity. Their ensemble singing is perfection itself, and each part is exquisitely phrased." - Stereo Review

6320 CD $11.98

Hilliard Ensemble : Josquin Desprez: Motets & Chansons

Of all the north European composers who made their careers writing beautiful secular madrigals in sixteenth-century Italy, Josquin Desprez is regarded as the greatest. Fusing learned polyphony with rhythmic gaity, the madrigal was hugely popular in Italy and England. The brilliant British male octet The Hilliard Ensemble, sounding very much like angels, are one of few groups who can do justice to this difficult, soaring material. From the sacred "Ave Maria? Virgo serena," "Veni Sancti Spiritus," and "De profundis clamavi" to the secular "Petite camusette," "Je me complains" and "Je ne me puis tenir d'aimer," this is wonderful music. 13 songs. Extensive liner notes give lyrics and translations.

7012 CD $11.98

Honved Ensemble Male Choir: Liszt: Choral Works For Male Voices

The talented Hungarian choral group Honved Ensemble Male Choir" brings us a rare treat, choral works written for male voices by Ferenc Liszt (1811-1886). First of the 7 movements are the dramatic "Les Quatre Elemens," written for the poems by Joseph Autran, and first performed in 1844 with piano accompaniment by Liszt, "Titan," written in Berlin in 1842 and based on the Franz von Schober poem, the politically controversial "Arbeitercho/A Munka Himnusza," and the heroic "Le Forgeron," (the Blacksmith) based on the Lamennais's poem. This is moving, all accompanied, passionately-sung music that stirs and touches us still, across the centuries!

7549 CD $15.98

King's Singers

Since their inception at King's College, Cambridge, in 1968, the King's Singers have developed the broadest and most diverse repertoire of any international singing group. With more than 60 recordings and a Grammy nomination to their credit, the King's Singers' repertoire reflects their eclecticism, ranging from a collection of previously unrecorded chansons of Renaissance composer Josquin Desprez to the quintessential Britishness of Gilbert & Sullivan.

King's Singers: Colouring Book

She's Leaving Home
The Game
I Love You Samantha
Windmills Of Your Mind
After The Goldrush
Life On Mars
Watch Me
Michelle
Penny Lane
Eleanor Rigby
I'm A Train
Morning Has Broken
Building A Wall
My Colouring Book
Orange Yellow Ochre
A Taste Of Honey
Strawberry Fields Forever

The King's Singers were the first to apply choral technique to popular material and Colouring Book concentrates on their unforgettable arrangements of international pop hits of the sixties and early seventies. Some of the selections are drawn from their sessions with Beatle's producer George Martin including the remarkable 'She's Leaving Home'. Several of their Lennon and MmcCartney recordings are well represented here alongside songs written by the other giants of contemporary pop; Bob Dylan, Brian Wilson, David Bowie and Neil Young. To these diverse writers, the King's Singers bring their beautiful tone, balance and synchronisation with equally marvellous effect. Import reissue.

Listen to "Michelle" in RealAudio.

8323 CD $15.98

King's Singers: Gesualdo

If you like The King's Singers, you'll love this CD! Gesualdo: Tenebrae Responsories for Maundy Thursday offers a small slice from the liturgy used for Holy Week. All tracks are superbly performed. The voices weave together to form a solid fabric of stunning polyphony. The responsories, here, are divided into three sets beginning with lessons from the Lamentations of Jeremiah. Gesualdo, an eccentric Italian prince and one of the Renaissance's more innovative composers, is best remembered for killing his wife and her lover while they were in bed together. His guilt over this shocking and passionate act is said to be mirrored in his music with its chromatic and often indulgent lines. The music is liturgical in nature, but this recording can be appreciated inside and out of the sanctuary.

7104 CD $16.98

Other King's Singers releases available from Primarily A Cappella
(see their Songbooks and Videos, too)

King's Singers: Street Songs
6132 CD $16.98
 
Watching the White Wheat
6108 CD $16.98
Sermons and Devotions
6114 CD $16.98
Annie Laurie: Folksongs of the British Isles
6112 CD $16.98
Good Vibrations
6122 CD $16.98
A Tribute to the Comedian Harmonists
6113 CD $16.98
English Renaissance
6125 CD $16.98
This Is the The King's Singers
6104 CD $16.98
Believe in Music
6110 CD $16.98
The King's Singers (Original Debut Recording)
6115 CD $15.98
New Day
6101 CD $15.98
Madrigal History Tour
6105 CD $16.98
Nightsong
6201 CD $15.98
A Little Christmas Music
6118 CD $15.98
Chanson D'Amour
6121 CD $16.98

Choir of King's College, Cambridge: Great Choral Classics

Miserere (Gregorio Allegrei)
Stabat Mater (Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina)
Spem in alium - Sancte Deus (Sancte Deus)
Ave verum corpus (William Byrd)
Gloria in D major, RV 589 (Antonio Vivaldi)
This is the record of John (Orlando Gibbons)
Jesu, priceless treasure (Johann Sebastian Bach)
Coronation Anthems (George Frideric Handel)
Zadok the Priest
My heart is inditing
Let thy hand be strengthened
The King shall rejoice

Directed by Sir David Willcocks, The Choir of King's College, Cambridge was founded in 1441 by Henry VI, who wanted the daily services in his chapel to be provided with music, and stipulated that the college should be responsible for the education of the