The King's Singers
It isn't really a surprise that one of the world's most popular vocal groups comes from England, for that country has long had and unsurpassed tradition of vocal music with roots in both religious and secular singing. Tallis, Byrd, Gilbert, Sullivan, and even King Henry VIII leap to mind. It is said that in the barbershops of Shakespeare's time a lute or guitar was kept on hand for the patrons to while away the time with song. Glee Societies have had a long history in England. But the mainstay of English vocal tradition has resided in the church and the education of youthful choristers in the great cathedrals. Each year out of all England and its rich tradition there are just fourteen young men appointed choral scholars to King's College, Cambridge. As there are such a select few, a close bond is formed among these singers whose lives are immersed in the tradition of choral song, by daily choir practice and evensong, not to mention the individual effort to train and strengthen the voice. The closeness of the individuals is enhanced by such traditions as having their own table at Hall and the commitment shared to a particular musical style.
It was in 1965 that Alastair Hume, Simon Carrington and Brian Kay with the other choral students decided to cut a record of some of the most popular songs in their "fun repertoire." The called themselves Schola Cantorum Pro Musica Profana on this release of 100 records. Six of the fourteen went on a tour calling themselves Six Choral Scholars from King's College. They were Martin Lane, Al Hume, Neil Jenkins, Richard Salter, Simon Carrington and Brian Kay. The King's Singers name was adopted when, on May 1, l968, they sang their first London debut. Alastair Hume (countertenor), Simon Carrington (baritone), Brian Kay (bass), and Anthony Holt (baritone) with Nigel Perrin (countertenor who graduated from King's to join his friends a year later) are the foundations of this remarkable group which has never diminished in virtuosity throughout its thirty-plus year history of sharing one of the widest repertoires imaginable with enthusiastic audiences throughout Europe, the US, Russia, Japan, Korea and South Africa. They have shared the stage with a diverse selection of most notable musicians such as Placido Domingo, The Boston Pops Orchestra, jazz musicians Art Farmer and Bill Dobbins, Paul Mc Cartney and many others. Composers from around the world specifically create music for them. They are the top!
Not only do they perform and record, they are "Prince Consort Ensemble in Residence" at the Royal College of Music and regularly conduct workshops and masterclasses all over the world. Though the King's Singers are no longer affiliated with King's college, the traditions established by those graduates are continued by new members each of whom is chosen after rigorous search and auditions. Current members are David Hurley and Nigel Short (countertenors), Paul Phoenix (Tenor), Philip Lawson and Gabriel Crouch (baritones) and Stephen Connolly (bass). This is but a brief glance at one of the most influential and enduring of the contemporary vocal groups whose discography now numbers nearly forty albums (though some are out of print). For an in depth history of the group try to find the book written by 'the originals' with later member Bill Ives entitled, "The King's Singers, a Self Portrait." By all means, if you ever have the opportunity to attend a live concert, be sure to do so!
Members: David Hurley, countertenor, Robin Tyson, countertenor, Paul Phoenix, tenor, Philip Lawson, baritone, Chris Gabbitas, baritone
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She's Always A Woman - Billy Joel arr. Philip Lawson You Can Close Your Eyes - James Taylor arr. Philip Lawson Greensleeves - arr. Bob Chilcott The Gift to be Simple - arr. Bob Chilcott Swing Low, Sweet Chariot - arr. Peter Knight Helplessly Hoping - Stephen Stills arr. Philip Lawson Deep River - arr. Philip Lawson Black is the Color - arr. Bob Chilcott I Love My Love - arr. Philip Lawson The Water is Wide - arr. Philip Lawson When She Loved Me - Randy Newman arr. Philip Lawson Valparaiso - Sting arr. Philip Lawson The Turtle Dove - arr. Philip Lawson April Come She Will - Paul Simon arr. Philip Lawson Steal Away - arr. Bob Chilcott You are the New Day - arr. Peter Knight |
After a gap of 10 years The King’s Singers have once again made a full a cappella studio album, featuring sixteen stunning arrangements of classic pop ballads, spirituals and folksongs. Each track on this album has earned its place because of its great melody and coupled with the impeccable style for which the group is justly famous, this album will delight its huge worldwide fanbase. The King’s Singers incredible blend and tuning goes to ensure that this is probably their finest recording of its type in a long time.
Listen to April Come She Will in RealAudio.
| 8848 CD $16.95 |
Considering the longevity of the King's Singers' career (which began in the 1960s with performances of the Schola Cantorum Pro Musica Profana, or, as they were more casually known, the Cam River Boys), it's only natural that a greatest-hits album would require two discs, each crammed full of arrangements of popular songs and vocal pieces from the Renaissance to the twentieth century. Whether performing infectious versions of songs by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, smooth standards by Cole Porter and Harold Arlen, sublime motets by Adrian Willaert and Orlande de Lassus, or lush fin de siècle classics by Gabriel Fauré and Edward Elgar, the King's Singers always deliver entertainment first and foremost, and make their virtuosic repertoire fully accessible to audiences. Of course, their singing varies from classically polished formality to a more relaxed, even humorous glee club delivery. Fans who appreciate their amazing sound and enjoy their lively manner will appreciate this generous retrospective, which brings together recordings made between 1974 and 1990. 48 songs in all.
| 8863 2CDs $16.95 |
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Crux fidelis - King John IV of Portugal Kyrie (Mass Mille Regretz) - Cristobal de Morales Versa est in luctum - Tomas Luis de Victoria In ieiunio et fletu - Digo Dias Melgas Versa est in luctum - Sebastian de Vivanco Lamentations - Alonso Lobo Versa est in luctum - Juan Gutierrez de Padilla Pia et dolorosa mater - Diogo Dias Melgas Versa est in luctum - Alonso Lobo Libera me - Alonso Lobo |
"For a group like ours the choice of repertoire for recording often seems bewilderingly large. So why did we choose Portugese, Spanish and Mexican music from the period known as the Siglo de Oro - the Golden Age? The idea came from our church concert programs, where acoustics, space and atmosphere allow great scope for drama. Beginning at the back of the church with Crux fidelis and slowly moving eastwards as the piece unfolds has proved to be a magical way to start. More than one audience member has told us that if the concert had ended after that one piece, they would have gone home happy. But that would have denied them the chance of hearing one of the most famous pieces from this era - Alonso Lobo’s incredible version of Versa est in luctum, which often closes the first half of the concerts." – The King’s Singers
Listen to Pia et dolorosa mater in RealAudio.
| 8848 CD $16.95 |
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The Seasons of His Mercies (Richard Rodney Bennett) Scenes in America Deserta (John McCabe) Taaveti laulud (Cyrillus Kreek) Taaveti laul Onnis on inimene Taaveti laul 141 Taaveti laul 121 Remembered Love (Jackson Hill) House of Winter ( Peter Maxwell Davies) Rakastava (Jean Sibelius) Esti Dal (Zoltán Kodály) Even Such is Time (Bob Chilcott) |
The King's Singers present a disc of some of their best and most requested repertoire. We are all shaped, perhaps unconsciously, by the landscape and time in which we live. This evocative and spiritual programme, which contains five King's Singers commissions, explores the links between human life and it's surroundings through the different personal languages of poets and composers. Music from the Orkneys to the American desert, from Finland, Estonia and England to Hungary and Japan makes this one of the King's Singers finest recordings in years.
Listen to Onnis on inimene in RealAudio.
| 8451 CD $16.95 |
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Haec Dies (Byrd) O Lord Make the servant Elizabeth our Queen (Byrd) As Vestas (Weelkes) Dessus le Marche d'Arras (Lasso) Il est bel et bot Luci serene e chiare (Gesualdo) Si ch'io vorrei morire (Monteverdi) Esti Dal (Kodaly) Omnis on Immene Agnes Dei (Reger) Psalm 121 Down to The River to Pray Honey Pie (Beatles) Blackbird Creole Love Song (Ellington) Seaside Rendevous (Freddy Mercury) Lullaby (Billy Joel) The Barber of Seville (Rossini) Danny Boy Spem in Alium (Tallis) |
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)
| 8300 DVD $19.95 |
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Introduction The Lord Looked Down On Earth The People Of Fun-City Then Japhet, Shem And Ham It Looks Like Rain For The Floodgates Of Heaven Forty Days And Nights For The Lord Closed The Floodgates Father Noah Please Open The Porthole Then The Lord Looked Down On The Ark Oh What A Wonderful Scene Holy Moses The Bull Rush Song The Promise Moses' Magic Box / The Plague On You Angel Of Death The Chase Freedom Ten Of The Best / Moses' Farewell |
Growing up in the rarified collegiate church music atmosphere at Oxford or Cambridge, the all male sextet The King's Singers, who would go on to re-define a cappella choral perfection, made their debut in London in 1968. In 1970 the acclaimed Viennese-born composer Joseph Horovitz wrote "Captain Noah and His Floating Zoo, a vocal work in 10 parts for chorus and lead singer, piano, bass and drums. Similarly, British arranger/composer Chris Hazell wrote the music and lyrics for "Holy Moses," an accompanied jazz-pop cantata, in 1971, telling the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt. The King's Singers were invited to make the first recordings of these two new works in 1972, which were issued on either side of an lp issued by Decca/Argo. The group's ability to adapt their vocal approach to new rhythmic frameworks is clear here, and they prove to be the perfect choice to record this spirited, whimsical material. Listen to "The People of Fun City," "It Looks Like Rain," "Forty Days and Nights," "Oh What A Wonderful Scene," "The Bull Rush Song," "The Promise," "The Chase" and "Freedom," all new to us, to see how listeners of all ages continue to love this recording. And we see a whole new facet to one of our all-time choral group favorites, the King's Singers!
Listen to The Lord Looked Down On Earth in RealAudio.
| 8342 CD $16.95 |
"Spem in alium," not just the greatest of Tallis's compositions but one of the greatest of all time, is based on a liturgical text, written for 40 independent voices, and was first performed in England in 1573. A work for 40 voices is not one that would usually be associate with the legendary all male sextet The King's Singers. Through modern recording technology, flexibility and experimentation, the six have become 40, a true harmonic convergence that occurs when the pairs high, sweet voices throw the sound across the space between them until finally all voices join for a full culmination of the work. "Spem" is a stunningly beautiful piece, although very short, eight minutes and 22 seconds to be precise, and we listened to it several times to truly appreciate it. The piece is followed by a 6-minute interview with the Singers, who discuss the experience of recording it. A short sublimely beautiful piece, recorded by one of the world's finest choral ensembles. SACD
| 7984 CD $11.98 |
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George Washington's Almand (John Dowland) Kyrie from Mass for 4 voices (William Byrd) A Fancie (William Byrd) Gloria from Mass for 4 voices (William Byrd) Ardens est cor meum (Richard Dering) Civitas sancti tui (William Byrd) Ave Maria gratia plena (Peter Philips) Credo from Mass for 4 voices (William Byrd) Sir Henry Umpton's Funeral (John Dowland) O Lord how joyful is the King (Thomas Weelkes) From Virgin's womb/Rejoice, rejoice (William Byrd) M. Bucton's Galliard (John Dowland) Sanctus/Benedictus from Mass for 4 voices (William Byrd) Master Tresham: His Ducke (Francis Pott) Agnus Dei from Mass for 4 voices (William Byrd) |
On November 5, 1605, Guy Fawkes was caught preparing to detonate 36 barrels of gunpowder under the House of Lords, unveiling and act of attempted treason that shocked the whole of Europe.Commemorating the 400th anniversary of the Gunpowder Plot, the King’s Singers and Concordia illuminate the dangers of hearing Mass in secret, of conspiracy and downfall, and the protestant relief and great joy. The music, structured around Byrd’s perfect 4-part Mass, contains motets by catholic composers, protestant anthems celebrating the downfall of the plot, and a commission from the British composer, Francis Pott, Master Tresham: His Ducke. A script, drawing on historic texts and reproduced in the CD booklet, uses the dramatized persona of William Byrd, the most celebrated composer of his age, to recreate the atmosphere of change and hope in the Jacobean court.
Listen to "Sanctus/Benedictus from Mass for 4 voices" in RealAudio.
| 7790 CD $16.98 |
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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 |
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Psalm 124 (Salamone Rossi Hebreo) Psalm 9 (Ali Ufki, Claude Goudimel) Psalm 6 (Jan Pieterszoon Sweelnick) Psalm 6 (Ali Ufki, Genevan Psalter) Psalm 113 (Trad. Jewish) Psalm 118 (Salamone Rossi Hebreo) Psalm 2 Instrumental Improvisation Psalm 7 (Jan Pieterszoon Sweelnick) Psalm 2 (Ali Ufki, Genevan Pasalter) Psalm 2 (Jan Pieterszoon Sweelnick) Psalm 5 (Ali Ufki, Claude Goudimel) Psalm 128 (Salamone Rossi Hebreo) |
For nearly 40 years, the King’s Singers have delighted audiences around the world with their charm, wit and incomparable musicianship. Esteemed for the authenticity of their period style and their exemplary word painting, the King’s Singers are “still unmatched for their musicality and sheer ability to entertain” (The London Times). Joining them for this recording is Sarband, an instrumental ensemble renowned for demonstrating the connections between European, Islamic and Jewish musical cultures. Celebrating the symbiotic relationship between the Orient and the Occident, Sarband's mission is to show that music is a form of communication in which people can find common ground and respect for one another. On Sacred Bridges, these two groups unite in celebration of the rich connections - literally sacred bridges - between Christianity, Islam and Judaism. The program consists of settings of four Psalms of David to music by Christian, Jewish and Muslim composers that demonstrate the central importance of the works to the three religions. The artists demonstrate that by examining the similarities and bridges among each religion, we can forge tolerance and understanding in a world that desperately needs more of each.
| 7853 CD $16.98 |
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Down to the River to Pray Blackbird The Wishing Tree Lullabye Blue Skies After the Goldrush |
After years at the pinnacle of a cappella chorale music, the King's Singers show no sign of slowing down, as their creativity and number of appearances throughout the world remain undimmed. In what has been described as their 3rd generation, "Six" is a tasty sampler spanning the life of the group since their founding in the explosive rock decade of the 1960s. The spiritual "Down In The River To Pray" appeared in the movie "O Brother, Where Art Thou?", arranged by Singer Phillip Lawson, who also arranged this sublime cover of Billy Joel's "Lullabye (Goodnight My Angel)." Lennon/McCartney's "Blackbird" is one of the most-requested encores in the KS' live concert repertoire. "The Wishing Tree" by former Divine Comedy member Joby Talbot, was commissioned by the KS and the BBC. Irving Berlin's moody jazz classic "Blue Skies" is sung in a cool and reflective arrangement by Singer Richard Bennett. The final cut is a soaring, surreal arrangement of Neil Young's deathless, "After the Goldrush," which takes our breath away and leaves us wanting to hear much more. One forgets just how exceptional the King's Singers are, until one is able to see them live, or one settles back next to the stereo in a comfortable chair and lets the beauty of these "Six" wash over him like a subtle, perfect tide.
Listen to Blue Skies in RealAudio.
| 7717 CD $12.95 |
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Lectio 1 Responsories from 1st Nocturn: - In Monte Oliveti - Tristis est anima mea - Ecce vidimus eum Lectio 2 Responsories from 2nd Nocturn: - Amicus meus osculi - Judas mercator pessimus - Unus ex discipulis meis Lectio 3 Responsories from 3rd Nocturn: - Eram quasi agnus innocens - Une hora non potuistis - Seniores populi consilium Benedictus Christus factus est |
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 |
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Veni, veni Emmanuel (arr. Lawson) Angelus ad Virginem (ed. The KS) This is the truth sent from above (arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams) Wie schon leuchtet der Morgenstern (Praetorious) Es ist ein Ros' ensprungen (Praetorious) There is no rose (ed. Stevens) Coventry Carol Nowell sing we now (Bo Holten ed. The KS) Remember, O thou man (Ravenscroft) In dulci jubilo (J.S. Bach) Lullay my liking (Philip Lawson) Bogoroditsye Dyevo (Arvo Part) The Lamb (John Taverner) Maria durch ein Dornwald ging (arr. Lawson) O little one sweet (harm. J.S. Bach) Bethlehem Down (Peter Warlock) The Crown of Roses (Tchaikovsky arr. Lubbock) To us in Bethlem City (John McCabe) Szezo to za prediwo (arr. Barwinski) There is a flower (John Rutter) La Peregrinacion (Ramirez arr. Knight) Away in a manger (Melody W.J. Kirkpatrick arr. Lawson) Noel nouvelet (arr. Lawson) Stille Nacht (Gruber arr. Rutter) Born on a New Day (David arr. Knight/Lawson) |
Started in 1968 by six Choral Scholars from King's College in Cambridge, the group quickly became a musical force in the UK, and the rest of the world soon followed. Since then they have been delighting audiences with incomparable musicianship, from mediaeval to renaissance, romantic to contemporary, folk and pop. The Singers looked into the music that most touched them to hear and sing in their own childhoods, and "Christmas" is the resultãthe quintessential classical Christmas CD. 25 perfectly performed songs, some favorites: the traditional Veni, veni Emmanuel" and "This is the truth sent from above," Praetorius' "Es ist ein Ros' entsprungen," Bo Holten's "Nowell sing we now," Phillip Lawson's "Lullay my liking," Tchaikovsky' "The Crown of Roses," John Rutter's "There is a flower," Ramirez' "La Peregrinacion," and Gruber's "Stille Nacht." Extensive, multilingual liner notes with all lyrics. Incomparable, trademark King's Singers and soaring vocals throughout.
Listen to In dulci jubilo and The Crown of Roses in RealAudio.
| 6941 CD $16.98 |
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The Triumphs of Oriana is an extravagant musical compliment paid to England's Elizabeth I by Thomas Morley, published in 1601. It consists of 25 madrigals by 23 different composers, each madrigal concluding with the refrain, "Then sang the shepherds and nymphs of Diana: Long live fair Oriana." Oriana was a character in a chivalric romance long equated with Elizabeth, and Diana, goddess of chastity, would certainly attend the Virgin Queen. However idealized their pastoral setting, many of the madrigals are excellent, those by Bennet, Weelkes, Cavendish and Morley are well known. As a whole they captured the musical imagination of the time and they continue to intrigueãfor instance, who is the mysterious "Bonny-boots" who appears in two of the songs? The soaring tenor and falsetto voices of King's Singers, England's brilliant, prolific male sextet, were made to perform this difficult, eclectic collection. Picking favorites, beside the four previously mentioned, is not easy: Tomkins' "The fauns and satyrs tripping" is lovely, as is "With wreaths of rose and laurel" by Cobbold and "Fair nymphs I heard one telling" by Farmer. "Triumphs" is a choral joy, an ode to a beautiful fantasy from long agoãsung by six men whose voices and talent are fortunately very real. Extensive, interesting liner notes.
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If you are a fan of either the King¼singers or the Beatles music this is a wonderful recording. While they are performing with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, under the direction of Erich Kunzel, which provides the instrumental backing for the vocals on several of the sixteen songs. Most of the tunes are either the King¼singers creating their own vocal instrumentation within their arrangements or the orchestra itself, unaccompanied by the singers. The mix of vocal and orchestral is a fascinating and wonderful tribute to the four men of whom the Queen of England spoke when she remarked on her golden wedding anniversary, "Think what we would have missed if we had never heard the Beatles." Songlist
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Subtitled "the spirit of Renaissance Spain," this recording has our manly British sextet exploring, with aplomb and panache, the marriage of music and drama that was popularized by Catalan musician Mateo Flecha the Elder. The salubrious accompaniment of the Harp Consort, under the direction of Andrew Lawrence King ("consort" is a period term for an ensemble), sets the stage, as it were, for the unfolding of either courtly and elegant polyphony, or a display of rustic and passionate bravura. The latter, typified by the fiery dance rhythms of the villancicos, and the slow sensual breaths of "Zarambeques" (and bass Stephen Connolly's earthy timbre), are in contrast to the "Benedictus (from Mass for the Dead)" and "Por las Sierras de Madrid," (combining no less than four separate tunes with an improvised treble part, using a form known as qoudlibet). This mixture, blended with both scholarly acumen and a generous dose of unmannered showmanship, makes "Fire-water" a new King1⁄4s Singers favorite. Songlist
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The Circle of Life Kiss From a Rose Kokomo Wind Beneath My WIngs It Had to Be You Live and Let Die The Time of My Life I Heard IT Through the Grapevine Everything I Do, I Do It for You The Rose I Will Always Love You Groovy Kind of Love |
With the subtitle of "close-harmony arrangements of timeless songs from famous movies," "Circle Of Life" contains orchestrated versions of well-known themes, such as "Wind Beneath My Wings," "Everything I Do, I Do For You" and "I Will Always Love You." Recorded in Holland in 1996 (with the exception of "Kokomo," the Beach Boys song that appeared on "Spirit Voices"), and therefore available only on import, some of the arrangements are innocuous, while others, such as "Live And Let Die" and "I Heard It Through The Grapevine" are merely unlikely. An a cappella version of "The Rose," from the film of the same name, is the CD's winner by a landslide.
Listen to "Groovy Kind of Love" in Real Audio
| 6126 CD $16.98 |
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Fifty Ways To Leave Your Lover Kokomo The Boxer Some Folks' Lives Roll Easy Seaside Rendex-Vous And So It Goes La Valse a Mille Temps All I Ask Of You Chitarra D'amor Plaisir D'amour Now Those Days Are Gone Good Vibrations Father To Son My Romance Chanson D'amour The Lord's Prayer The Rose Quand Tu Dors Pres De Moi Freddie Feel-Good M. K. L. Fifty Ways To Leave Your Lover |
Totul Tuus Lord, Make Thy Servant Elizabeth, Our Queen Vigilate Lamentation De Jeremie Haec Dies Beata Viscera Mariae Virginis Funeral Ilos Allegez Moi Petite Camusette Ave Maria Wymondham Chants Con Amores, La Mia Madre Who Is Sylvia? Le Papillon Et La Fleur Lydia The Seasons Of His Mercies Abendlied Abenstandchen Nachtlied Die Nacht |
The highly-respected and popular English sextet, the King's Singers, are now passing their silver anniversary. With an infusion of new talent, the group continues to explore new avenues of sound across the spectrum, from madrigalists to modernists. This double-CD is compiled from their last seven recordings on BMG, some of which still include Alastair Hume and Simon Carrington, founding members. From the lilting "Chanson D'Amour," the Bob Chilcott arrangement of the Beach Boys' "The Lord's Prayer," Queen's "Seaside Rendezvous," Gorecki's quietly powerful "Total Tuus" and Schubert's classic art song, "Who Is Sylvia," the King's Singers precision tuning, consistently challenging and inventive arrangements and, most importantly, their love for what they do continue to carry the day, impressing audiences throughout the world.
| 6124 2 CDs $29.98 |
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Teddy Bear's Picnic Humpty Dumpty Medley - Old King Cole - The Grand Old Duke Of York This Old Man Over The Hills And Far Away King John's Christmas The Riddle Song Walking In The Air Yellow Submarine The Owl And The Pussycat Here We Go Down The Line Lavender's Blue Wendell The Worm I Know An Old Woman Frog Went a-Courtin' - We All Stand Together |
The King Singer's and Dame Judi Dench tell the tales we all know and love. Embrace the charm of this rare treat made for children of all ages! The Teddy Bear's Picnic and Humpty Dumpty sitting on a wall, The merry soul, Old King Cole and Duke of York, the Grandest of them all. This old man, a dog and a bone. "Over the Hills and Far Away" for days and days alone. Walking on air or submerged in a "Yellow Submarine", or with an owl and a pussycat on a ship of pea green. Boys and girls and blackbirds four and twenty, they all diddle diddle in lavender blue fields of plenty. Wendell, the sunburned worm, an old woman's fate with a fly, the frog he went a-courtin while we all stand together, together you and I.
Listen to "Humpty Dumpty Medley" and "I Know An Old Woman"
| 6495 CD $15.98 |
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Though the madrigal form was imported from Italy (where it evolved from the frottola), it was readily embraced by the English at the end of the sixteenth century. These mostly a cappella versions by the best of the English composers (thirty-five in all) have both a scholarly (as analyzed in great detail in the accompanying liner notes), and entertainment value; who better than England's cherished King's Singers to bring them, once again, to life? Whether it's "Construe My Meaning," with it's strophic form and chromaticism, or "Now Is The Month Of Maying," with it's more typical bipartite structure for four voices, this CD contains a wealth of enjoyment. Songlist Listen to "Sing we and chant it" in RealAudio.
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Thomas Tallis (1505-1585) was the most influential English composer in his day. He lived at Court from 1543 until his death. He survived the coming into dominance of Protestantism during Edward VI's reign, the restoration of Catholicism under Mary in 1553 and the tumultous tussle leading to the Elizabethan Settlement which devised a new church establishment then dominant for nearly a hundred years. Throughout these changes Tallis continued to write choral liturgical music in both the older Latin motet style and the newer English anthem style. His greatest student was William Byrd (1543-1623) who pushed the authorities with his staunch Catholicism but was such a brilliant composer that he never received more than a heavy fine. Elizabeth awarded them the exclusive rights to publish music in her realm, effectively creating a monopoly. The King's Singers bring us a sampling of the huge output from these two most influential composers, including both motets and anthems. These are performed for the joy of those who love renaissance music, with the musical perfection expected of the best. Songlist
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Chanson D'amour Now Those Days Are Gone La Valse · Mille Temps Con Amores, La Mia Madre Who Is Sylvia? Chitarra D'Amor I Get Along Without You Very Well All I Ask of You Dein Herzlein Mild My Romance She's Like the Swallow Quand Tu Dors PrÈs De Moi Love's Philosophy Alice in Wonderland Plaisir D'Amour If Music Be the Food of Love Le Papillon et la Fleur Lydia Phyllis Is My Only Joy Wenn Ice In Deinen Augen Seh' Down With Love |
Popular virtuosity exists! Right here on this recording of love songs. Love songs are written from every different point of view and you'll find them all here. True love and false, lost love and found, mother and lover love, fantasy love and down with love are some of the issues, presented in a huge variety of styles and periods. There are others, of course, but in this one album you'll find samples of nearly the entire repertoire of the King's Singers. This is more fun than you can imagine. The arrangements are truly inspired. From vocal acrobatics to vocal instrumentation and back again via some of the most dynamically challenging choral music, you will be delighted, no matter if your normal listening habits are in the classical realm or popular. Some of the composers whose works have been cleverly arranged for this extraordinary recording are Jacques Brel, Franz Schubert, Hoagy Charmichael, Johannes Brahms, Richard Rogers, Henry Purcell and Harold Arlen. We love this recording!
Listen to "Chanson D'amour" in Real Audio
| 6121 CD $16.98 |
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Scarborough Fair Skye Boat Song What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor? Annie Laurie Greensleeves Danny Boy The Lincolnshire Poacher Loch Lomond The Lass of Richmond Hill Sally Gardens The Ash Grove Aiken Drum Golden Slumbers Ar Hyd Y Nos (All Through the Night) Going to Town Home Sweet Home Eriskay Love Lilt Mairi's Wedding |
Sparingly accompanied by Renaissance flute, piccolo and a guitar, these traditionals, and the descriptions that accompany them, are a charming introduction to the musical history of Britain. The famous "Danny Boy," (a cappella) somehow manages to summarize the grace and suffering of the Irish experience in its earnest melody; likewise, "Loch Lomond," (Scottish, also a cappella) brings the rough yet delicate beauty of Scotland to life. Several nineteenth century parlor songs are also included, such as "Home Sweet Home" and "Golden Slumbers." Also, the familiar "Scarborough Fair," "Greensleeves" and "What Shall We Do With A Drunken Sailor?"
Listen to "Scarborough Fair" in Real Audio
| 6112 CD $16.98 |
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Good Vibrations Cecilia Father to Son The Boxer Texas Girl at the Funeral of her Father Seaside Rendezvous And So it Goes American Pie Some Folks' Lives Roll Easy Fifty Ways to Leave Your Lover That Lonesome Road Freddie Feel-Good M.L.K. |
Warning! This is a crossover album. The choral perfection and fabulous arranging of the King's Singers is applied to a wide variety of music from the world of pop and rock. Shocking! It's fabulous. The Beach Boys, "Good Vibrations" is a natural for a group whose capacity to harmonize puts to shame almost anyone who hasn't also shared a lifetime of musical study, practice and performance, as have the King's Singers. There's vocal percussion, acrobatics worthy of the most avant garde practitioners of extended voice techniques, perfected trills and runs that only endless training achieves; and the harmonies, aah such harmonies. Perhaps one reason for this is the counter-tenor voice at the high register rather than needing to rely on the falsetto. It creates a harmonic purity to the chords that is sweeter. Then, of course you have to listen to the "kazoo" chorus and all the rest of the sound effects in Freddie Mercury's "Seaside Rendezvous to realize that these singers can do it all! Be sure to catch Ray Stevens "Freddie Feel-Good" for a fabulous vocal jazz band. Take that, rock 'n rollers, you'll love it!
Listen to "Good Vibrations" in Real Audio
| 6122 CD $16.98 |
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GTotus Tuus Piispa Ja Pakana Pater Noster Ave Maria Wymondham Chants Funeral Ikos The Lamb Sermons And Devotions |
You are about to hear some of the most demanding music which a choral group can sing. Henryk Mikolaj Gsrecki's "Totus tuus" (trans. "Yours Completely) was composed for eight voice choir in honor of the third visit of Pope John Paul II to his native Poland. It was adapted for the six voices of the King's Singers who were awarded a CARA (Contemporary A Cappella Recording Award) in 1997 for Best Classical Song. It is...the best, we mean. But how about the second song of the recording? Velijo Tormis' composition, "Piispa ja pakana" (The Bishop and the Pagan), was drawn from both musical documents and folklore. It tells the story of the death of a British missionary/warrior at the hands of a Finnish peasant farmer. The viewpoints of both sides have descended since that event in 1158. "The Sequence of St. Henry" is a Latin Gregorian Chant which documents the British side and numerous folk songs represent the view of the Finnish farmer. Both have provided elements in the creation of this piece. Drat, we haven't time to describe the other ten pieces, but suffice it to say it is probably the most demanding music you will ever hear.
| 6114 CD $15.95 |
This recording represents the best the King's Singers have to offer from the Renaissance in England, Spain and France. This two disc set highlights some of the great works of Elizabethan composers Tallis and Byrd including the two sets of the "Lamentations of Jeremiah." The set of Spanish music is accompanied by the Harp Consort led by Andrew Lawrence King. It offers a wide variety of styles from the improvisatory accompaniment of "Dindirin, dindirin" to the highly composed motet "Ante que comais a dios" by Francisco Guerrero. The entirety of the second disc is devoted to the six-voice music of Josquin Deprez, which was a rarity before 1500. In general, the six-voice music was based on a canon with two voices in strict canon surrounded by incredible polyphony. This recording features many of his six-part voice songs and motets. This is a fabulous recording from one of the world's greatest interpreters of Renaissance music. It is a great treat.
| 6751 2CDs $24.98 |
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Recorded at London's Abbey Road Studios in 1989, this partially-orchestrated recording (The City Of London Sinfonia on about half the tracks, their brass quintet on another handful), is Britain's King's Singers at their delightful best. This classically-educated male sextet is known for their lively performances - never pedantic, always entertaining. They navigate through the most challenging and thrilling of passages, as wave upon wave of countermelody ascend and crescendo from every quadrant, with apparent ease and confidence. The a cappella arrangements, such as "The Little Drummer Boy" and "Stille Nacht" (sung in German), are uncomplicated and soothing, sung with perfect majesty. "A Little Christmas Music (Medley a la Mozart)" with guest soprano Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, is the CD's heroic odyssey, going completely over the top with reckless abandon!. Songlist Listen to "A Little Christmas Music" and "Deck The Hall" in RealAudio
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1988 recording of one of England's premier vocal groups. The six King's Singers, who, with the presence of two countertenors, are able to render the full spectrum of vocal ranges, have one of the most immediately recognizable sounds. Selecting works by English composers from the turn-of-the-century up to World War II (sometimes dubbed as a period of "pastoral" music), including Holst, Finzi, Bridge and Vaughan Williams, one can readily discern the various trends - and countertrends - that were later associated with twentieth-century modernism. Elgar's "Deep In My Soul" shows the drift toward undefined tonality, whereas Finzi's "I Have Loved The Flowers That Fade" is polyphonic, and beckons to the past, as much as the present, for its inspiration. Songlist
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Penny Lane Mother Nature's Son Ob-la-di, Ob-la-da And I Love her Help! Yesterday A Hard Day's Night Girl Got to Get You Into My Life Back in the U.S.S.R. Eleanor Rigby Blackbird Lady Madonna I'll Follow the Sun Honey Pie Can't Buy Me Love Michelle You've Got to Hide Your Love Away I Want to Hold Your Hand |
One of the most popular King's Singers recordings, and for good reason: one of the most accomplished and educated vocal groups performs the songs of the most famous pop band in history, surely a winning combination. In fact, George Martin produced the King's Singers' first record, and this CD was recorded at Abbey Road, strengthening the connection still further. All but two of the arrangements were written for this CD, and the King's Singers indeed interpret these songs uniquely. "Got To Get You Into My Life" is flamboyant and thrilling, sort of a musical Carmen Miranda hat: thudding kick drum, driving horns and huge backing vocals. In contrast, "Girl" is a relaxed sigh, the chords luxuriant, the tempo calm. "A Hard Day's Night" is a mannequin that goes through so many stylistic changes (doo wop, gospel, torch song vamp) that the result defies imagination. A stunning production.
Listen to "Yesterday" in Real Audio
| 6102 CD $16.98 |
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Lamorna Barbara Allen Bobby Shaftoe Early One Morning Jack the Jolly Tar The Oak and the Ash O Waly, Waly The Raggle Taggle Gypsies She Moved Through the Fair Migildi Magildi Bugelio's Gwenith Gwyn Star of the County Down Londonderry Air Dance to thy Daddy O My Love Is a Red, Red Rose There's Nae Luck About the Horse |
Folk songs have been an important part of the King's Singers repertoire since their first recording days in l972. On this recording of folk songs from the British Isles, the arrangers who have been so important to the success of the group bring their talents to bear on music of their own homelands. Daryl Runswick, Goff Richards, Grayston Ives and Gordon Langford have all added multiple arrangements to the recording. In order to embellish the traditional feel of the songs, some instrumentation has been added. There is just a touch of piccolo at the end of "Bobby Shaftoe," for example. A solo cello plays on "O Waly, Waly" ("The Water Is Wide"). "Bugeilo'r Gwenith Gwyn" ("Watching The White Wheat") is a Welsh tune, sung in Welsh, with a harp accompaniment. Take a tour of the British Isles via folk songs from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales presented with the choral perfection which we have come to expect from The King's Singers.
Listen to "Bobby Shaftoe" in Real Audio
| 6108 CD $16.98 |
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Gastoldi Amor Vittorioso Rossino Mantovano Lirum Bililirum Arcadelt Il Bianco e Dolce Cign Anon. La bella Franceschina Verdelot Ultimi Mei Sospiri Anon. Alla Cazza Wert Or Si Rallegri il Cielo Dowland Fine Knacks for ladies Byrd Who Made Thee, Hob, Forsake the Plough Bartlet Of all the Birds The I Do Know Tomkins Too Music I Once Lamented Farmer Fair Phyllis Gibbons The Silver Swan Morley Now Is the Month of Maying Janequin & Verdelot La Guerre Certon La, la, la, la, je ne L'ose Dire Lassus Bon Jour: Et Puis, Quelles Nouvelles? Anon. Mignonne, Allons Voir Si La Rose Passereau Il Est Bel et Bon Arcadelt Margot Labourez Les Vignes Le Jeune Un Gentil Amoureux Willaert Faulte D'Argent |
The Madrigal form, as it developed throughout Europe, is chronicled with precision and great attention to detail by England's King's Singers. From it's original appearance in Italy in the 1530's, the form-characterized by polyphonic texture, and the secular equivalent of the motet-was popular in England, Germany, Spain and France. Madrigals were the music of the people: they were written in the vernacular, expressed common themes of love and desire, and were often accompanied by dancing. This is a highly recommended tour.
Listen to "Fair Phyllis" in RealAudio.
| 6105 CD $9.98 |
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You Are the New Day Nouveau Poor Three Times a Lady What's in a Tune? You'd Have to Be a Rosie Can't Buy Me Love Singapore Girl The Rhythm of Life The Gambler It Was Almost Like a Song Here Comes the Sun Hush, Little Baby, Don't Say A Word Money, Money, Money/Summer Nights The Summer Knows Could it Be Magic |
Leading off with the title track, which is been heard recently all over public television, the King's Singers demonstrate their usual facility with any sort of arrangement or style. "New Day" is a simple tune, essentially contemporary folk in style, with an uncomplicated arrangement that gives the blend of the voices preeminence. "Noveau Poor" is tongue-in-cheek wit at its most profligate ("we're in Burke's Peerage, we're in "Who's Who," we're in the red, and in penury too." ). "What's In A Tune" tosses a salad comprised of various classical melodies, sung a cappella and fully orchestrated-all vocally, of course. "Can't Buy Me Love" is arranged as a sixteenth century madrigal.
Listen to "You Are The New Day" in Real Audio
| 6101 CD $16.98 |
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The collaboration of W.S.Gilbert (1836-1911) and Sir Arthur Sullivan (1842-1900) is one of the legends light opera. Gilbert's writing was known for his piercing, satirical wit which permeated most of his writing. He was a successful journalist, dramatist, poet and even cartoonist. Sullivan, whose father was a band leader, had reached adequate competence on most of the instruments in the band by age eight. He was the composer of popular religious music, operas and an organist of note. Both of these talented men were successful in their own right, but the collaboration of composer and librettist created the most innovative and popular shows in 19th century British musical theater. Both, at different times, were knighted. The perfection of their songs is based on the fact that the two worked closely to match perfectly the lyric with the music, rather than one element being forced to fit the other. The King's Singers are uniquely suited to sing this very British repertoire from H.M.S. Pinafore, The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, Ruddigore and The Gondoliers. Songlist
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The prototype for what has developed into a twenty-five year career that continues to grow in popularity, this initial 1971 recording hints at the dominion the King's Singers have over an astonishing variety of material. Four tracks are a cappella, the rest accompanied by the Gordon Langford Trio (Langford also arranged five of the songs). Traditionals, such as "Shenandoah, "Cherry Ripe" and "Scarborough Fair" are side-by-side with Gershwin's "Summertime" and Bacharach's "Wives and Lovers." Stylistically, the King's Singers combine formal classical knowledge with the immaculate blend of a barbershop chorus and the personality of English music hall performers appearing on the "Old Grey Whistle Test." No wonder they've stood the test of time! Songlist
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The Reluctant Dragon Brother Heinrich's Christmas The Wind In The Willow |
This is a delightful CD for children (and eavesdropping adults), gathering together three "musical fables" that John Rutter wrote for Christmas concerts given by the King¼s Singers and the COL Sinfonia; "The Reluctant Dragon" and "The Wind in the Willows" based on Kenneth Grahame stories, adapted by David Grant. "Brother Heinrich¼s Christmas" was written for a Christmas TV special from Salisbury Cathedral, with Rutter writing the story as well as the music. This is like the sound track to a musical, with Richard Baker narrating "Dragon" and "Willows," and Brian Kay narrating "Brother," and Anthony Holt, for instance, playing St. George in "Dragon" and Toad in "Willows." The King's Singers and the Cambridge Singers give sweet and entertaining performances, and we can only say that we would have loved to have seen the concerts and the TV special!
| 6657 CD $15.98 |
Britain's King's Singers are as respected and talented a vocal group as can be found performing today. Highly educated, but with a passion for music that is never purely academic, this six member ensemble, featuring two countertenors, one tenor, one "high" baritone, one baritone and one bass, is constantly striving for excellence and originality. Therefore, their mixed-voice arrangements, though classified SATB, are sometimes for six voice parts. Some also feature piano for rehearsal only. Octavo format, published by Hal Leonard.
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The Barber of Seville Overature, arr. Daryl Runswick |
Enjoy the applause as your group performs some of the most often requested King's Singers selections in a variety of styles.
| 9551 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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And I Love Her |
Twelve Beatles favorites, arranged as only the King's Singers can: in other words, do not expect adherence to the original versions by the Fab Four. Example: "Can't Buy Me Love" as a madrigal
| 6116 SONGBOOK $5.95 |
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Deep River Down to the River to Pray Joshua Keep in the Middle of the Road Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow Sometimes I Feel Like A Motherless Child Stand Still, Jordan Standing in the Need of Prayer Swing Low, Sweet Chariot |
Here for the first time in one collection are well-known traditional spirituals in the King's Singers own performing editions. This third volume in the Colour of Song series contains works from their past repertoire as well as two brand new arrangements. Also includes performance notes for each song.
| 6142 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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All Creatures Now
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A variety of music from the great flowering of the English choral art in the king'singers' own editions. Includes a general introduction to the era and background on each work. A must for every high school and college choral library! Includes pieces by: William Byrd (Sing Joyfully, Haec Dies), Orlando Gibbons (Drop Drop Slow Tears, The Silver Swan), John Bennett (All Creatures Now, Weep O Mine Eyes), Thomas Weelkes (As Vesta Was), Thomas Morley (Fire Fire), Edward Pierce (Hunting the Hare), Thomas Ravenscroft (A Round of Three Country Dances, The Three Ravens), Thomas Tallis (If Ye Love Me).
| 6123 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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Au Joli Jeu
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Here are 12 of the King's Singers favorite works of the European Renaissance in their own performing editions. Includes performance notes and translations for each work. Spanish: Otro tal misacantano (Anonymous), Dindirin, dindirin (Anonymous); French: Triste depart (Nicolas Gombert), La, la, la, je ne l'ose dire (Pierre Certon), Au joli jeu du pousse avant (Clement Janequin); German: Tanzen und Springen (Hans Leo Hassler), Innsbruck, ich muss dich lassen (Heinrich Isaac); Italian: Parmi di star (Severin Cornet), Il bianco e dolce cigno (Jacques Arcadelt), Chi chilichi (Orlande de Lassus); English: Hark All Ye Lovely Saints (Thomas Weelkes), I Love, Alas, I Love Thee (Thomas Morley).
| 6141 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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Sing We And Chant It |
1995 collection with a lovely introduction and biography. Also, very helpful notes about each piece in particular with suggestions by group members. Quite the variety of material, from a two Beatles songs, Queen's "Seaside Rendezvous," traditional folk songs such as the Japanese "Takeda Lullaby," Renaissance pieces such as "If Ye Love Me" by Tallis and so on. Mostly four voices, but with an SSATB version of "Sing And We Chant It."
| 6115 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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A British Tar |
These inventive settings of eight Gilbert & Sullivan favorites offer a multitude of musical rewards. Brilliant farce, understated spoof and delicate nuance are all present in abundance.
| 6122 SONGBOOK $5.95 |
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This Old Man (SSAA)
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Con Amores, La Mi Madre (SATB)
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Dindirin, Dindirin |
With a preface by Simon Carrington describing the madrigal style and its history, as well as extensive performance notes for each piece, this scholarly collection is written for four mixed voices. Some of these can be heard performed by the King's Singers on their "Madrigal History Tour.
| 6118 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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Gentil Senora Mia (Vasquez)
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I'm A Train |
After twenty-five years together, the King's Singers do deserve to celebrate. We can join in on favorites such as "I'm A Train," "You Are The New Day" and "Shenandoah" (the fabulous Bob Chilcott arrangement). A few pieces have piano accompaniment.
| 6114 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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Danny Boy (Londonderry Air) SATB divisi a cappella |
England's King's Singers are known for their impeccable musicality. Coupled with the enthralling traditional melodies of Ireland, this intermediate to advanced level collection of ten arrangements will be challenging as well as rewarding and are some of King's Singers favorite and most requested concert selections. This songbook is not only an excellent value, but will become an invaluable addition to your choral library as well.
| 6120 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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Introducton |
After all, the King's Singers are British, so a collection of Folk Songs from their own island is a joyful addition to the canon. Written in the original keys with only one exception, and with occasional accompaniment (piano or strings on "Barbara Allen), most of these eleven selections are for six voices, but they could be male or mixed, depending on the range. With their usual attention to detail, a glossary is included in the back to decipher some of the archaic terminology. Perennial hits for the King's Singers, both in concert and on disc, they will bring equal enjoyment and success to vocal groups worldwide.
| 6119 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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Alleluia (Boyce) |
This delightful collection of 99 rounds, canons and partsongs makes a delightful introduction to part-singing to kids from 6 to 106! The selections are arranged by categories including English Pre-1700 (Secular), Pre-1700 (Sacred), Post 1700, From Around the World and Wordless Rounds. There's also a surprise or two! Includes: Alleluia (Boyce), Christmas Is Coming, Coffee Canon, Come Follow, Come Let Us All A-Maying Go, Dona Nobis Pacem, Hava Na Shira, If Turn'd Topsy Turvy, Jubilate Deo, Mi Gallo, My Dame Hath a Lame Tame Crane, Non Nobis Domine, Oaken Leaves, Shalom Chaverim, The Silver Swan, Summer Is A-Coming In, Tallis' Canon, Viva la Musica, When Jesus Wept and 80 more.
| 6128 SONGBOOK $8.95 |
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Jingle Bells |
Eight holiday treasures, some of which will demand attention and care to perform. Differing arrangements include five voices, male or mixed, on "Noel! Sus Troupe Chanteresse," six (SATTBB) for "Gaudete," and SATB plus brass choir for "Joy To The World." The King's Singers are never pedestrian in their treatments, and this book once again demonstrates their agility.
| 6117 SONGBOOK $5.98 |
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Ven, Veni Emmanuel |
Join the King's Singers as they celebrate an English Christmas Eve service. Taken from their album of the same name, these beautiful arrangements will certainly help spread the Christmas message. Songbook matches the CD of the same name.
| 9029 SONGBOOK $6.95 |
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Experience the insights, the expertise, the inspiration and the fun of the King's Singers in concert at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Hall in Dallas, Texas, in rehearsal, in informal interviews and in workshops. The group uses various high school choirs, in a workshop setting, to demonstrate their philosophy and approach. The King's Singers, wearing casual apparel, gently and humorously coach their charges on important but subtle details of phrasing, dynamics and most importantly, interpretation, as on Bob Chilcott's arrangement of "Shenandoah." The group, in spite of their daunting technical know-how, make the point that fun while singing is the purpose; the obviously warm rapport they have amongst themselves is ample evidence that this is so!
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Featuring long-standing founding members Simon Carrington and Alistair Hume, this entertaining yet informative production discusses the formation of the King's Singers and their history, group organization (democratic) and planning, as well as, of course, their music. Featuring the Gustavus Choir, the King's Singers take various pieces in their repetoire, including the Shaker hymn, "Gift To Be Simple," to analyze and demonstrate matters of technique. Blend, phrasing, dynamics and interpretation are considered and applied, showing the King's Singers remarkable attention to detail. The importance of listening, when singing within an ensemble, is emphasized. The King's Singers describe their own style as somewhere between the courtly and the sacred, and we couldn't agree more!
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Presented by James Galway and filmed at Harewood House, this 1987 program features eight mostly classical and traditional pieces, from "There's Nae Luck" to "The Flight Of The Bumblebee." One work, "Sea Rune," was comissioned for the group in 1986, and is a challenging polyphonic composition. "Bumble Bee" is an exciting and dramatic reading, and the video's closer, "Creole Love Call," (a piece that was featured in the repetoire of the legendary Comedian Harmonists), is a marvelous combination of musicianship and theatrics. The King's Singers "big band" rendition requires lip diddling, chin slapping and nose tweaking, all done with a fair bit of glee!
| 6124 VHS VIDEO $19.98 |
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Loch Lomond (Arr. David Overton) SATB div. |
This gently flowing setting of the traditional Scottish folksong "Loch Lomond" is a perpetual favorite in King's Singers' concerts. This arrangement by David Overton is simple and straightforward offering contrasts between the flowing interludes and the homophonic choruses. The haunting melody of the Canadian folk song " She's Like the Swallow" is accented by a lyric vocal accompaniment. Perfect for large group or ensemble use. This lilting English folksong " I Love My Love" is one of a group of great arrangements in the King'singers' repertoire. "Furusato (Homeland) is a tender tribute to home, this Japanese folk song's sentiment is touching to all. Includes Japanese and English lyrics. " Grandfather's Clock" - This childhood favorite still delights listeners of all ages. Cleverly arranged, it makes a great closer or encore.
| 9058 SHEETMUSIC $7.95 |
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Lullaby (Goodnight, My Angel) (Arr. Philip Lawson) SATTBB |
A lush a cappella setting – Billy Joel's hit ballad 'And So It Goes,' arranged by Bob Chilcott, is one of the King's Singers' most requested arrangements. 'Lullaby,' now available in a revised edition with optional parts for a second choir, this sweet and simple lullaby by Billy Joel on his River of Dreams album is stunning. Lush harmonies and challenging vocal lines will inspire singers to do their best in the new arrangement of the Billy Joel classic 'She's Always a Woman.'
| 9059 SHEETMUSIC $9.98 |
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Haec Dies (SATB divisi) |
A magnificent 6-part setting of Psalm 118:24 by William Byrd, 'Haec Dies' offers a glimpse into the splendor of the English Renaissance. The lilting English folksong, 'I Love My Love' is one of a group of great arrangements in the King'singers' repertoire. In 'O Lord, Make Thy Servant Elizabeth Thy Queen,' a choral tribute to Queen Elizabeth I, William Byrd's great compositional artistry is fully evident, with long sustained phrases, bass pedal tones, and striking dissonances. This challenging and substantial work is ideal for madrigal groups and advanced ensembles. 'She Moved Through The Fair' and 'The Star of the County Down' are two of the King's Singers' favorite and most-requested Irish ballad. The evocative setting of 'The Turle Dove,' one of the most treasured folksongs of all time, is new to the King's Singers' repertoire. Sure to become a classic!
| 6111 SHEETMUSIC $9.98 |
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Penny Lane (Arr. Bob Chilcott) SATTBB |
From the King's Singers' Beatles album, 'Penny Lane' has been one of the most requested by choir directors. The excellent writing of Chilcott breathes new life into this favorite. From the King's Singers and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra “Music of the Beatles” album, 'When I'm 64' is a fun and swinging arrangement of the Lennon and McCartney classic. Featuring inventive jazz band-style vocal accompaniments throughout, everyone gets their turn singing the clever lyrics of the melody. From their recording, Beatles Connection, the often-requested arrangement of 'Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da' is available for the first time. The setting of the heart-felt Lennon and McCartney ballad, 'Here, There and Everywhere' is featured on the King's Singers and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra “Music of the Beatles” album. In this Paul Hart arrangement, the melody is supported by gentle rhythms and countermelodies in the other voices. A perfect opportunity to feature soloists.
| 9060 SHEETMUSIC $7.50 |