Women's Christmas Choral Recordings

Walter Michalak : Sing We Now of Christmas - Alto

Review: Imagine how much more productive and efficient your rehearsals will be when you or all of your choir members have had time to rehearse on their own with a CD targeted to their specific vocal part. When you all get together there will be more time to devote to nuances and performance skills, instead of the basic learning of notes Rehearsal CD has the featured vocal of your choice: Soprano, Alto, Tenor or Bass on the right side (or right speaker/headphone), and the rest of the chorus voices in the left speaker/headphone. That's right, you aren't alone, the rest of the chorus is there with you but your vocal part is highlighted and isolated for your convenience! The large-type, easy-to-read music book that accompanies each rehearsal CD, gives added reinforcement. For each carol you will hear the name of the carol, a set of tones, with the loudest tone being your starting tone, and a metronome click to start off the tempo and count you down to the beginning. The count will always be a full 2 measures before the start of the carol, and if the carol starts in mid-measure there will be 2 full measures plus the partial measure before the carol begins. It's as easy as that! If you listen on headphones and don't have a balance control, you can simply move the left or right headphone to isolate the left/right playback sound.

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard On High, Away In A Manger, Coventry Carol, Deck the Halls, The First Nowell, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Hark! the Herald Angels Sing, It Came Upon A Midnight Clear, Joy to the World!, O Come, All Ye Faithful, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Silent Night, What Child Is This?, We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Voicing: Alto

Walter Michalak : Sing We Now of Christmas - Soprano

Review: Imagine how much more productive and efficient your rehearsals will be when you or all of your choir members have had time to rehearse on their own with a CD targeted to their specific vocal part. When you all get together there will be more time to devote to nuances and performance skills, instead of the basic learning of notes.Rehearsal CD has the featured vocal of your choice: Soprano, Alto, Tenor or Bass on the right side (or right speaker/headphone), and the rest of the chorus voices in the left speaker/headphone. That's right, you aren't alone, the rest of the chorus is there with you but your vocal part is highlighted and isolated for your convenience! The large-type, easy-to-read music book that accompanies each rehearsal CD, gives added reinforcement. For each carol you will hear the name of the carol, a set of tones, with the loudest tone being your starting tone, and a metronome click to start off the tempo and count you down to the beginning. The count will always be a full 2 measures before the start of the carol, and if the carol starts in mid-measure there will be 2 full measures plus the partial measure before the carol begins. It's as easy as that! If you listen on headphones and don't have a BALANCE control, you can simply move the left or right headphone to isolate the left/right playback sound.

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard On High, Away In A Manger, Coventry Carol, Deck the Halls, The First Nowell, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Hark! the Herald Angels Sing, It Came Upon A Midnight Clear, Joy to the World!, O Come, All Ye Faithful, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Silent Night, What Child Is This?, We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Voicing: Soprano

Bella Voce Women's Chorus : Christmas Joy

Review: Pride of Vermont since their founding by the renowned Dr. Willis, the 40-strong Bella Voce Women's Chorus brings us a bright, ringing Christmas album of 20 songs, some of them familiar and beloved, like "The Sussex Carol," "Wexford Carol," John Rutter's "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day," "A La Nanita Nana," the spirituals "Mary Had A Baby" and "Glory and Honor to the Newborn King;" "Jesus, Jesus Rest Your Head," "I Wonder As I Wander," the Christmas medley "Christmas Intrada," Benjamin Britten's "This Little Babe" and Brahms' "Ave Maria." and many of them less familiar to us, like "Masters in this Hall," "O My Dear Heart," Eleanor Daley's "What Sweeter Music," "La Virgen Lava Panales," "The Moon of Wintertime," "A la Ru, A la Me" and Steven Rickards' "Angels Did Sing." Most songs have some light to heavy accompaniment, and the lovely, extensive liner notes have all the lyrics.

Songlist: The Sussex Carol, Masters in This Hall, Wexford Carol, O My Dear Heart, Tomorrow Shall be My Dancing Day, A La Nanita Nana, Mary Had A Baby, Jehovah Hallelujah, Glory and Honor to the Newborn King, Christmas Intrada, What Sweeter Music, La Virgen Lava Panales, The Moon of Wintertime, This Little Babe, Jesus, Jesus Rest Your Head, I Wonder as I Wander, A la Ru, A la Me, Angels Did Sing, Magnificat

Bella Voce Women's Chorus : Glorious Seasons

Review: This recording features selections from the seasons including Spring and Summer from Gustav Holst's Two Eastern Pictures; Daniel Hall's haunting Indian Summer with piano and oboe; and a variety of Christmas pieces including Randol Alan Bass' Christmas Flourish and Gloria for women's voices. Glorious Seasons also contains several unaccompanied pieces by Australian composer, Sandra Milliken. A fine recording from this top notch womens choir under the direction of Dawn Willis.

Songlist: Alleluia, Spring, Summer, The Rose of Sharon, Indian Summer, Cantate Domino, Os Justi , El Romanton, Sing Me to Heaven, Veniki, Dona Nobis Pacem, Hodie Christus Natus, Dormi Jesu, I Saw Three Ships, Still, Still, Still , Nativity Carol, Gloria, Christmas Flourish

Bella Voce Young Women's Choir : A Bella Christmas: Angels Are Singing

Review: "A Bella Christmas: Angels are Singing" is an aptly-named, live, gorgeous Christmas collection from the pride of Rochester, Minnesota. Most of the songs are accompanied by piano, a brass ensemble, organ, oboe and congas. But the highlight of the album is the high, soaring voices of the 51 singers, in perfect solos and together in glorious harmony. Some of our favorites among the 15 cuts are Z. Randall Stroope's "Magnificat" and "There Is No Rose;" Chris Dedrick's "The Angel Choir and The Trumpeter," Mozart's "Alleluia," John Rutter's lovely "Candlelight Carol" and a cappella "Deck The Hall;" Tchaikovsky's "Dans des Mirlitons" (Dance of the Reed Flutes," Pietro A. Yon's sublime "Gesu Bambino," the traditional song "Cantemos a Maria" (Let Us Sing to Mary); Egil Hovland's "Stay With Us" and the traditional carol "Silent Night." Every cut here is perfect, and guaranteed to bring joyous music to your Christmas celebrations for years to come!

Songlist: Magnificat, The Angel Choir and the Trumpeter, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Ding Dong! Merrily On High, Alleluia, Candlelight Carol, Danse des Mirlitons (Dance of the Reed Flutes), Deck the Hall, Away in a Manger, Gesu Bambino, In the Bleak Midwinter, There Is No Rose, Cantemos a Maria (Let Us Sing To Mary), Stay With Us (from Captive and Free), Silent Night

Bulgarian Voices : Chants de Noel

Review: The Choir of Sofia, conducted by Ludmila Dimova, interprets the songs of Christmas in the tradition of the Bulgarian polyphonies. Between classical music and folk-world music of the eastern countries; like the successful Mysteries of the Bulgarian Voice with its antique, pre-Christian and Hellenistic roots, the Choir interprets with grace the songs of Western heritage: Silent Night, Tino Rossi's Petit Papa Noel, Jingle Bells, Schubert's Ave Maria and more. A new discovery of these Christmas songs' heritage for every age.

Songlist: Silent Night, Hey Maiden, A Virgin Is Bearing Today, Get Up, Host, Jingle Bells, Foom, Foom, Le Petit Papa Noel, It Will Snow, Ostinato, Dignity, Glorify, Ave Maria, In Suffers is Bearing Mother Mary, Many Years, The First Noel, Deck The Halls, We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Calgary Girls Choir : Christmas Blessings

Review: Elaine Quilichini directs the elite "Brava," finest of 5 performing choirs within the CGC, in this dramatically beautiful Christmas collection, accompanied by pianos, percussion, violin and cello. This CD was recorded in 2003, after which the Choir performed in the Choral Peace Concert at Carnegie Hall in NYC. 23 songs, beginning with 7 by Salvator Mundi "Make We Merry," "Mirabile Mysterium," "Be we Merry in this Feast," "Lullay," "Susani," "Christie, Redemptor Omnium," and the lively, joyous "Welcome Yule." Other favorites are "Mary's Cradle Song," El Cant des Ocells," the French songs "Venez, divin Messie," "Il est ne, le divin enfant," "Dans cette etable" and "On ne creaint plus dans l'univers," "The Holly and The Ivy," "A Carol of Peace," "Bashana Habah'ah" and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." A sweet, memorable collection that will fill you and yours with joy and Christmas spirit! Complete lyrics on the nice liner notes.

Songlist: Make We merry, Mirabile Mysterium, Be we Merry in this Feast, Lullaby, Susanni, Christe, Redemptor Omnium, Welcome, Yule, Ave maria, Mary's Cradle Song, Canco a la Verge, El Cant des Ocells, Lullaby, Venez, divin Messie, Il est ne le divin Enfant, Dans cette etable, On ne craint plus dans lunivers, In Dulci Jubilo, The Holly and The Ivy, Away in a Manger, A Carol of Peace, Bashana Habah'ah, Blessing, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Calgary Girls Choir : Christmas Creche

Review: The Calgary Girls Choir presents a unique musical gift to its audiences everywhere. Recorded by Brava, the main performing, recording and touring ensemble of the Calgary Girls Choir, Christmas Creche is the first of many promising accomplishments by these talented singers.

Songlist: Je Ne L'O Se Dire, Come Let Us All This Day, Schafe Konnen Sicher Weiden, Jesu Meme Freude, The Lord Is My Shepherd, Guten Abend, Velvet Shoes, A Litany, Os Justi, Rise Up My Love, And God Shall Wipe Away All Tears, Angels Are Everywhere, The Blooming Bright Star Of Belle Isle, She's Like The Swallow, Shule Agra, The Drinaun Donn, Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ye!, I Am In Love I Dare Not Own It, O Can Ye Sew Cushions?, Vem Kan Segla Forutan Vind?, Are You Sleeping, Brother John?, Niska Banja, Old Macdoodle Had A Band, Feel Good, When I Sing

Calgary Girls Choir : Seven Joys of Christmas

Review: Artistic Director Elaine Quilichini founded the Calgary Girls Choir in 1995, an award-winning community choir known for its outstanding performance of a wide variety of musical styles and challenging repertoire. The Choir offers five programs for girls and young women, of which two, "Allegra," a preparatory choir for girls ages 6 to 11 years, and "Brava," winner of many provincial and national music awards. 15 Christmas songs, all accompanied by light piano, beginning with the title cut, a medley of the "7 Joys," including "This Is The Truth," "Din, Don! Merrily on High," "Joseph Dearest, Joseph Mine," "Patapan," "Fum, fum, fum!" and others; Schubert's "Ave Maria," "Once In Royal David's City," the Czech folksong "Zither Carol," "Al Shlosha D'Varim," the lovely "Candles, Candles," "The Carol of the Rose," "Apple-Tree Wassail," and standard carols "Fa La, La, La, La" and "Silent Night," "A Celtic Blessing" and others. A lovely Christmas winner from one of Canada's most talented and beloved children's choirs. 

Songlist: The Joy of Love: This is the truth, The Joy of Bells: Din don! merrily on high, The Joy of Mary: Joseph dearest, Joseph mine, The Joy of Children: Patapan, The Joy of the New Year: New Year Song, The Joy of Dance: Fum, fum, fum, The Joy of Song: God bless the master of this house, Ave Maria, The little road to Bethlehem, Once in Royal David's City, The Little Jesus Came to Town, Zither Carol, Candles, Candles, Al Shlosha D'Varim, The Carol of the Rose, In the Bleak Mid-Winter, Carols of French Canada, Apple-Tree Wassail, Fa, la, La, La, La, Silent Night, A Celtic Blessing

Campanella Female Choir : Christmas with Campanella - Campanellan Joulu

Review: There is a distinctly female point of view on this record - and no wonder. Aino Loppela has built a repertoire in which the dimensions of Finnish Christmas become thoroughly illuminated. Mysterious silence at the dusk of Christmas Eve, anticipation, presents and many other things fill up a little girl's mind. The protagonist is, however, Maria Matala Neiti, Pyha Herran Piikanen (Mary the Humble Maiden, sacred Lord's Servant), whose experience about the deepest message of Christmas is performed here. The Campanella Female Choir is among the elite of Finnish choirs of female voices and and winners of numerous awards.

Songlist: Piika Pikkarainen, Jouluna Jumala Syntyi, Maria Matala Neiti, Syntyi Poika Polvillehen, Harka Olkia Levitti, Otabat Piti Iloa, De Radice Processerat, Angelus Emittitur, Psallat Scholarum Concio, Maria, Herran Piikanen, Aa, Aa, Jo Lapsi Nukahtaa, Kun Joulu Valkeneepi, Kautta Tyynen, Vienon Yon, Joulun Odotukesessa, Talvi-Iltana, Pimeaa, Lasten Joulu, Joulu Tullut On, Jouluaattona, Joululumi, Joululaulu, Hiljainen Joululaulu, Joulun Kellot, Tule Takkaus Ihmisrintaan, Tuikkikaa, Oi Joulun Tahtoset, Betlehemin Tahti

Cantamus : Noel

Review: Founder Pamela Cook directs Cantamus, based in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, UK, her 40 hand picked singers, girls age 13 to 19, in a generous, finely-crafted Christmas collection of 19 songs. Just a quick listen to John Rutter's "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day," and accompanist Michael Neaum's arrangements of "The Little Drummer Boy" and "Do You Hear What I Hear," and we know what a treat "Noel" is going to be! Mostly accompanied by piano, flute and other instruments, there are few sounds as joyous and welcoming at Christmas than these soaring, spirited young voices singing favorites like "Patapan," "Stille Nacht," "White Christmas," "Riu, Riu Chiu" and "Away in a Manger;" and lesser-known tunes like "I Sing of a Maiden," "Lullay Myn Lyking," "Midwinter" and "Pastorcito Santo." Treat yourself and your loved ones to "Noel," a true musical Christmas gift!

Songlist: Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, The Little Drummer Boy, Do You Hear What I Hear?, I Sing of a Maiden, A Maiden Most Gentle, Patapan, Midwinter, Riu, Riu, Chiu, Pastorcito Santo, Shepherd's Pipe Carol, What Child is This?, The Lily and the Rose, Sussex Carol, Stille Nacht, Mary's Lullaby, Lullay Myn Lyking, Away in a Manger, The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy, White Christmas

Elektra Women's Choir : A Ceremony Of Carols

Review: In our opinion, probably the top women's choir performing today (this of course is a matter of some debate) is the Elektra Women's Choir, and as proof we offer their latest, "A Ceremony Of Carols," a brilliant CD of choral Christmas classics. First we have 12 cuts from Benjamin Britten's "Ceremony of Carols." Then three selections from Paul Csonka's "Concierto de Natividad," Then John Rutter's "Dancing Day, Parts I and II," eight songs. Featured is Rita Costanzi on harp. Just settle back in your easy chair with a Christmas toddy, put this on the stereo and let the beautiful music take you to a Christmas of another time and place.

Songlist: A Ceremony of Carols, Procession, Wolcum Yole!, There is no Rose, That yonge child, Balulalow, As dew in Aprille, This little Babe, Interlude, In Freezing Winter Night, Spring Carol, Deo Gracias, Recession, Concierto di Navidad, Amoroso Pastorcillo, Al Nino Jesus, La Nana, Dancing Day, Prelude, Angelus and Virginem, A virgin most pure, Personent Hodie, Interlude, There Is No Rose, Coventry Carol, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day

Elektra Women's Choir : Child Of Grace

Review: Founded in 1987, and co-directed by Diane Loomer, C.M. and Morna Edmundson, the 57-strong, Vancouver, BC-based Elektra is now regarded as a leader in the classical women's choir movement worldwide. Seeking out music written specifically for women and frequently commissioning new works, the singers are selected by audition--and share an enthusiasm for challenging repertoire. "Child of Grace," a Christmas CD, is the group's 5th, and contains 21 songs, some with light accompaniment, piano and drums. This is a stunningly lovely collection of beautiful, little-known carols and Christmas songs, like Eleanor Daley's "What Sweeter Music" and "I Sing of a Maiden," and Knut Nystedt's "Mary's Song." There's a joyous group of 8 songs by Derick Holman called "Sir Christemas." Songs we've heard many times like "I Saw Three Ships," "How Far Is It to Bethlehem" and Malcolm Edwards' "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day" are the exceptions. Each song is a gem!

Songlist: Adam Lay Ybounden, O My Dear Heat, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, What Sweeter Music, Carol for the Animals, I Sing of a Maiden, Mary's Song, How Far is it to Bethlehem?, In the Bleak Midwinter, Sir Christemas:, -Proface, welcome!, -Sir Christemas, -The Wassail, -Omnes gentes plaudite, -Here comes holly, -Ivy, chief of trees, -Nay, ivy, nay, -Now have good day!, The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy, The Huron Carol, I Saw Three Ships, I Sing of a Maiden

Harmonies Girls Choir : Navidad en Espanol

Review: This album is a special collection of rare Christmas songs and arrangements from all over Latin America, including traditional and recent renditions of tunes and melodies from Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic. These songs are performed by Harmonies, a girls choral group based in Los Angeles, comprised of girls ages 8 through 18 under the musical direction of Orchestral and Choral Conductor Maestro Antonio Espinal, founder of the choir.

Songlist: Letania, Villancico Mexicano, Tarara Tarara Qui Yo Soy Anton, Por el Valle de Rosas, Navidad Guadalupana, El Tilingo Lingo Navideno, El Cha Cha Cha de la Navidad, A la Media Noche, Pastores a Belen, Los Tres Reyes Magos, Vamos Todos de Pachanga, Velo que Bonito, No Se Nino Hermoso, Ay Si, Ay No, Noche Buena Paraguaya, Villancico Negro, Festejo de navidad, Boas Festas, Bonus Track: Festejo de navidad - a Capella

Les Sirenes Female Chamber Choir : There Is No Rose

Review: There Is No Rose explores a wealth of repertoire drawn from the compositional output for female voices, from a wonderful group of British composers. The first part of the CD celebrates the centenary of one of the most prolific British composers of the 20th century, Benjamin Britten, while the rest of the program includes such gems as an incredibly moving setting by Tarik O Regan of a poignant poem by Anglican priest-poet Mark Pryce, a world-premiere recording of the haunting Coventry Carol set for four-part female choir by Lionel Salter, and Elgar s The Snow, a real showpiece for Les Sirenes and one of the works that secured their place in the Grand Final of Choir of the Year 2012!

Songlist: A Ceremony of Carols, Sweet was the Song, The Song of the Woman, The Oxen, Bring Rest, Sweet Dreaming Child, Coventry Carol, Jesu, Thou the Virgin-Born, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, A Lullaby for Becky, The Snow, Deck the Halls, Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day, A Merry Christmas

Manitou Singers of St. Olaf College : Christmas

Review: Sigrid Johnson conducts the Manitou Singers, comprised of 95 first-year female students at Northfield, Minnesota's St. Olaf College. The Singers have delighted audiences over the years with their beautiful and striking interpretations of treble choral literature. Included are Clausen's "Make a Joyful Noise," Rutter's "Candlelight Carol" and "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day," "There Is No Rose of Such Virtue," Jackson Berkey's "Gloria," "Sanctus," "Make We Joy," "Sing A New Noel;" 17 songs in total. Orchestral accompaniment on most songs, but the beautiful voices of the young women are on center stage. Lovely and intricate music for Christmas!

Songlist: Make A Joyful Noise, Candlelight Carol, The Road Ahead, Gloria, There Is No Rose of Such Virtue, All My Heart This Night Rejoices, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, I Sing of a Maiden, Sleep, O Lovely One, Sanctus (from Missa Hosanna), Make We Joy, The Journey of Mary, Sing a New Noel, How Far is it to Bethlehem?, A la nanita nana, Lullaby (from Hodie), Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day

Manitou Singers of St. Olaf College : Highlights from the St. Olaf Christmas Festival

Review: Northfield, MN's St. Olaf College offers an academically education with a vibrant faith tradition. The Manitou Singers, comprised of 100 first year women students, have a repertoire that ranges from sacred to secular to popular ballads, and their performances have broad appeal on and off campus. This live recording is from the Singers' performance at the popular St. Olaf Christmas Festival, and includes 17 songs. Favorites are standards such as the carols such as "O Little Town of Bethlehem, "What Child is This" and "I Saw Three Ships," as well as lesser known pieces like William Mathais' "Susanni," Daniel Gawthrop's "Mary Speaks," David Conte's "A Stable Lamp is Lighted," Ian Kellam's "Alpha to Omega" and Benjamin Britten's "Procession and Balulalow" (Ceremony of Carols). There are some wonderful songs we are hearing for the first time, and beautifully done standards on this generous Christmas collection!

Songlist: A Christmas Carol, Susanni, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, Lullaby Medley, Mary Speaks, What Child Is This?, A Stable Lamp Is Lighted, The Sussex Carol, Sweet Was The Song, I Saw Three Ships, Gloria, Alpha To Omega, Gloria, There Is No Rose, Gloria, Make A Joyful Noise, Procession And Balulow (Ceremony of Carols)

Motet Singers : Sing Noel

Review: The Motet Singers are ten female vocalists who began in 1982 as a vocal sight-reading group under the direction of Hannelore Good. They sing a cappella music from classical, folk and popular genres, ranging from medieval to contemporary, and are known for their pure sound, seamless blending of voices and the eclectic variety of their music. There are 20 tracks here, from a fine "Salve Regina" by Javier Busto and several other contemporary and 20th century pieces, to short sacred works by Renaissance composers Morales and Palestrina, to some very nice 19th and 20th century arrangements of Spanish carols from various periods. Some of our favorites: "A la Puerta del Cielo," "Jesus Christ the Apple Tree" and "Ave Maria." There are drums on at least one cut. Everything relates to the Nativity theme, and there is a nice mix of unfamiliar winners with familiar favorites. An exceptional, beautifully sung CD!

Songlist: Sactus, O My Dear Heart, Three Spanish Carols, Ya Viene La Vieja, A La Puerta del Cielo, Riu, Riu, Chiu, Deck the Hall, White Christmas, Ave Maria, Lullay my liking, Jesus Christ the Apple Tree, O Magnum Mysterium, Maria durch ein' Dornwald ging, Over the Hill Maria Went, A La Nanita Nana, Good King Wenceslas, The Christmas Song, The Holly and the Ivy, The Three Kings, Some Children See Him, Salve Regina

Musae San Francisco : Alegria y Placer - A Musae Christmas

Review: "Alegria y Placer" is the second finely-crafted album of San Francisco's own 15-voice women's vocal ensemble, Musae. It showcases local composer Conrad Susa's "Carols and Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest" for women's ensemble, harp, marimba, vibraphone and guitar. "Carols and Lullabies" is all in Spanish, and it features 10 songs of the 20 on the album. Each of the ten (accompanied) songs seems lovelier than the next, songs like "Alegria," "Los Posadas," the magical "Campana Sobre Campana," and the joyous "El Noi De La Mare." The others include standards such as "Silent Night," "Away in a Manger," "All Night, All Day," "I'll Be Home for Christmas" and "Deck the Hall." Other favorites are "This Endris Night," from a 15th Century English text, and a pair of lovely, wise folk songs, the lively "Vus Vet Zayn" and the gentle "Nada Te Turbe." There is quite a lot of accompaniment in the album, but the focus is on the beautiful voices. Musae is a delicious vocal smorgasbord from beginning to end, and all we have to do is treat ourselves. "Alegria y Placer" is one of the most enjoyable Christmas albums of the year!

Songlist: ÁO, Mi Belen!, El Desembre Congelat, Alegria, A la Nanita Nana, Las Posadas, Campana sobre Campana, En Belen Tocan a Fuego, El Noi de la Mare, Chiquirriquitin, El Rorro, Silent Night, Away in a Manger, This Endris Night, O Magnum Mysterium, Gabriels Message, All Night, All Day, I'll Be Home for Christmas, Deck the Hall, Vus Vet Zayn, Nada Te Turbe

Peninsula Women's Chorus : Alleluia Psallat

Review: Highlights include the Pastoral Symphony by Handel, Caritas abundat by Hildegard von Bingen, selections from Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, Bach's In dulci jubilo arranged for piano and performed by Josephine Gandolfi, and several pieces from Seven Joys of Christmas by Kirke Mechem.

Songlist: Caritas Abundat, Alleluia Psallat, There Is No Rose Of Such Virtue, Gaudete!, Nay, Ivy, Nay, Pastoral Symphony, The Lorde That Lay In Asse Stalle, Haill! Quene Of Heven, Nowell In Bethlehem, In The Bleak Midwinter, Processional, Wolcum Yole, There Is No Rose Of Such Virtue, This Little Babe, Interlude, Spring Carol, Deo Gracias, Recessional, The Wassail Song, Gloucestershire Wassail, In Dulci Jublio, The Joy Of Love:This Is The Truth, The Joy Of Bells: Din Don!, The Joy Of Mary: Joseph Dearest, Joseph Mine, The Joy Of Children: Patapan, The Joy Of Dance: Fum, Fum, Fum!, The Joy Of Song: God Bless The Master Of This House, Nowel Syng We Bothe Al and Some

Peninsula Women's Chorus : Carols and Lullabies

Review: The 61-strong Peninsula Women's Chorus was established in 1966, and has been under the direction of Dr. Patricia Hennings since 1975, and the Christmas CD "Carols" is their fourth CD. The first 10 songs are a marvelous group called "Carols and Lullabies, Christmas in the Southwest" by Conrad Susa. A friend of Susa's showed him a collection of traditional Spanish carols he had sung as a boy in Arizona, and Susa put them together to form a narrative. combining homey, artful simplicity with Renaissance music, Songs like "Alegria" and the Andalusian song "Chiquirriquitin," with their lilting, dancing marimbas, and the lovely "A La Nanita Nana," are the gems of the CD. The second half of the CD takes us more in the direction of the sacred (Karai's "Hodie Christus natus est" and Missa Brevis' "Kyrie," "Sanctus" and "Agnus Dei"). Throw in "The Carol of the Rose," "Alleluia" and others, and you have a surprising, delightful Christmas CD!

Songlist: Oh, mi Belen!, El Desembre Congelat, Alegria, A la Nanita Nan, Las Posadas, Campana sobre Campana, En Belen Tocan a Fuefgo, El Noi de la Mare, Chiquirriquitin, El Rorro, Hodie Christus natus est, Missa Brevis, -Kyrie, -Sanctus, -Agnus Dei, Two selections from The Place of the Blest, -The Carol of the Rose, -Alleliuia, O Regem coeli, Christmas Intrada

Philomela Female Choir : Midnight Christmas

Review: Renowned for its versatility, Philomela has, ever since it was formed in 1984, adopted an innovative approach to choral expression under its conductor Marjukka Riihimaki. Its many awards have included the Grand Prix in the Chorus Review of Tampere Vocal Music Festival, and in recent years it has regularly been invited to sing at international festivals. Recently Philomela decided to explore the potential for adding new songs to the Finnish stock of Christmas carols without violating the traditional Christmas spirit. It therefore commissioned songs on the Christmas theme from composers it had worked with before and were familiar with Philomela's style. They also included some more traditional Finnish Christmas music as well and this resulting recording is a true a cappella pleasure.

Songlist: The earth is beautiful, Hail to Thee, most blessed, The snowy cottages sleep, A prayer for Christmas night, The Christmas bells, Silence, On Christmas Night, God whispers Christmas, Mary, most lowly of maidens, The sauna seeker, Breathe, my good horse, For God was born, Jesus rocked in a cradle, Cast care aside, Silent night, holy night, Song of Mary

Portland Symphonic Girlchoir : Just For The Joy Of It

Review: Roberta Q. Jackson directs the over 100 strong PSG, accompanied by the Portland Youth Philharmonic. This is a Christmas CD, and there are 21 songs in celebration of Christmas, from sacred (Galuppi's "Dixit Dominus (Psalm 110) Movements, I, II, II") to pop (Elliot's "Jingle Bell Swing"). There are actually 2 choirs here, the Premier Choir of over 100 voices, and the Debut Choir of about 90, and when they sing together on something like "Silver Bells," it's pretty impressive. An excellent Christmas CD, for yourself to enjoy every Christmas, or to give to a loved one.

Songlist: Shepherd's Pipe Carol, Cantique de Jean Racine, Dixit Dominus, Children Blessed of the Lord, This Little Babe, Chose Something Like a Star, Ding Dong Merrily on High, el Desembre Congelat, Il Est Ne, Angels We Have Heard on High, Hope for Resolution, Donkey Carol, Hine Ma Tov, Sleigh Ride, Jingle Bell Swing, I'll Be HOme For Christmas, Heavenly Aeroplane, Winter Wonderland, The Christmas Song, Silver Bells, O Holy Night

San Francisco Girls Chorus : A San Francisco Christmas

Review: The 11 to 16 years old, 41-strong San Francisco Girls Chorus, conducted by Sharon J. Paul, was founded in 1978 and has established an international reputation through appearances at concerts,festivals and competitions, and radio programs such as NPR. Dwight Okamura accompanies on piano and Sarah Voynow on harp. "A San Francisco Christmas" features Britten's "A Ceremony Of Carols, Op. 28," "Personent Hodie," arranged by John Rutter, "Joy To The World," "Away In A Manger," "Good King Wenceslas," "Dime el Camino," "Ave Maria," "More I Cannot Wish You," and "Silent Night." The angelic voices of these young women soar as if in a cathedral, singing difficult classical music effortlessly and perfectly. A triumph!

Songlist: Procession, Wolcum Yole, There Is No Rose, That Yonge Child, Balulalow, As Dew In Aprille, This Little Babe, Interlude, In Freezing Winter Night, Spring Carol, Deo Gracias, Recession, Personent Hodie, Joy To The World, Away In A Manager, Good King Wenceslas, Dime El Camino, Ave Maria, More I Cannot Wish You, Silent Night

Santa Fe Women's Ensemble : Glad Tidings

Review: This second CD is a collection of the group's favorite holiday music. It features one of their commissioned pieces "With This Child" by Michael Maudlin as well as "Ceremony of Carols" by Benjamin Britten. This collection includes both the familiar and unusual in a multitude of tonal colors from women's voices accompanied by harp, flute and saxophone. This fine group celebrates the beauty and diversity of music for women's voices.

Songlist: Adam Lay I-bounden - Katherine Dienes, Dormi Jesu - Jonathan D. Green, Shchedrick - arr. M. Leontovich, With This Child, I. Holy Mother, II. O Child, May We Know You, III. Now the Star, IV. Dream of Darkness, V. Song of Light, Ave Maria - Elanor Daley, Ceremony of Carols - Benjamon Britten, Wolcum Yole!, There Is No Rose, That Yonge Child, Balulalow, As Dew in Aprille, This Little Babe, Interlude, In Freezing Winter Night, Spring Carol, Adam Lay I-Bounden, Night Yoik - Frode Fjelheim, In the Bleak Mid-Winter - Peter Williams, There Is No Rose - Z. Randall Stroope

Tucson Girls Choir : Gift of the Holidays

Review: On this recording, Tucson Girls Chorus shares music of the holiday with you. From the haunting message in "Stopping By Woods," by Vera Kistler to the rousing "A la Russe," arranged by Riegger the chorus sings a variety of new pieces and old favorites. This talented choir is sure to put you in the holiday mood.

Songlist: Winter Wonderland, Stopping By Woods, Kyrie from Missa Brevis in C Minor, Ukrainian Bell Carol, Da Pacem, On This Delightful Day, Gesu Bambino, A la Russe (The Sleigh), Ave Maria (linda Nolan), Riu, Riu, Chiu, Nieve (So Softly), Hurry, Hurry Yonder, Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming, I'll Be Home For Christmas, What Child Is This?

Vesnivka : Angels In Heaven - Ukrainian Christmas Carols

Review: Ukranian Christmas Carols - Kolyadky - (1 - 11) are sung from Christmas Eve - January 6 (according to the Julian Calendar) to Epiphany on January 19. These songs can be traced to pagan times. With the introduction of Christianity in Ukraine in 988, pagan songs were replaced by Christian carols and hymns. Shchedrivky - New Years song - (12-17) also have pagan roots and herald the New Year which starts January 14. These delightful folk songs with their charming rhythmic melodies, express wishes for health, wealth and happiness.

Songlist: God Is With Us Tropar of the Nativity of Christ, The Bright Star (arr.N Nyzankiwskyj, Y.Poliansky), Joyous Tidings (arr. Y. Yatsynewych solo A. Yaschyshyn), Wondrous News (arr. O. Koshytz), Behold a Miracle (arr. L.Sorochynsky, L. Kuzmenko, orchestral arr. G Kulesha), The Joyous Birth of Christ (Y. Yatsynewych), Angels In Heaven (O. Koshytz), A Soldier's Carol (Z. Lawryshyn), Chernobyl Carol (J. Kytasty - words and music solo H. Feloniuk), Holy Night (arr. M. Hajvoronsky), Heaven and Earth Rejoice! (H. Havryletz), The Queen's Court (H. Havryletz), Return of the Swallow (arr. E. Pip), Good Wishes for the New Year (arr. M. Dauk, Z. Lawryshyn), Shchedryk (T. Stasiuk), Shchedrivonjka (arr. M. Dacko, orchestral arr. Z Lawryshyn), Beyond the Courtyard (arr. M Hajvoronsky)

Vesnivka : Rejoice

Review: Kolyadky (carols) and Shchedrivky (New Year's songs) are one of the oldest genres of Ukrainian folk music, dating back to the pre-Christian era. With the coming of Christianity in 988, pagan songs were replaced with Christian carols and hymns, and these delightful (all accompanied) songs reflect sectarian life and express wishes for good health, wealth and happiness. The all-woman Vesnivka Choir was established in 1965 by conductor/director Halyna Kondracki and has won many awards. The Toronto Ukrainian Male Chamber Choir was founded in 2001 by Kondraki in affiliation with Vesnivka. 15 tunes, from "Christ is Born" and "Heaven and earth rejoice" to "The beautiful guelder-rose" and "The Carol." Wonderful solos on "The stars shone from heaven" and "A son is born." This beautiful music, from another culture and another time, is all new to us, but that only increases our appreciation for and enjoyment of it!

Songlist: Christ Is Born, Let Us Rejoice, The Stars Shone From Heaven, Heaven And Earth Rejoice, A Son Is Born, Wondrous Tidings, The Carolers, Schedrivka, Christ Sat Down To Supper , The Peacocks The Guelder - Rose Meadow, Malanka, The Beautiful Guelder - Rose, In The Master's Household, The Carol

Vox Musica : Christmas Colours

Review: Vox Musica is a 13-strong, women's choral ensemble from Sacramento, CA, directed by Daniel Paulsen, and "Christmas Colours" was recorded in Sacramento's St. Paul's Episcopal Church. We could tell we were hearing something very special here with the first of 12 Christmas tunes, John Tavener's difficult, soaring and often dissonant "A Nativity" and Cesar Carrillo's "Ave Maria," which the group handled beautifully and easily. A very sweet 17th Century German Carol, "Es Sungen Drei Engel," the lilting, joyous "Gaudete, a 16th Century Finnish Carol, Franz Biebl's lovely "Zundet An Das Licht," Tavener's "The Lord's Prayer," the 16th Century Irish melody "Love Came Down At Christmas," Nancy Telfer's 4-part "Missa Brevis" and "Silent Night," nicely arranged by Paulsen, completed the album. Many of these songs are new to us, and we were surprised and delighted to hear them. Listen to the echoing, soaring song of angels, "Love Came Down At Christmas," and you will see what we mean!

Songlist: A Nativity, Ave Maria, Es Sungen Drei Engel, Gaudete, Zundet An Das Licht, The Lord's Prayer, Love Came Down At Christmas, Missa Brevis - Kyrie, Missa Brevis - Gloria, Missa Brevis - Sanctus, Missa Brevis - Agnus Dei, Silent Night

Women's Chorus of Dallas : Seasons Of Dreams

Review: Seasons of Dreams is the ninth recording of The Women's Chorus of Dallas and features Holiday music from the 2002-2003 season. There is a diverse repertoire represented on the recording, ranging from classical to pop.

Songlist: It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Snowflakes, Before the Paling of the Stars, Noel des enfants qui n'ont pus de maisons, Season of Dreams, Jamaican Noel, Deck the Halls, Bashana Haba'ah, This Little Babe, Wolcome Yule, The Moon of Wintertime, Christmas...In About 3 Minutes, Hanukka Shalom, Away in a Manger, Still, Still Night, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, A Jingle Bell Christmas

Mary Lynn Lightfoot (editor) : Singable Solutions at Christmas for SSA Choirs

Review: Sing your way through the Christmas season with these eight creative solutions for your SSA classroom and concert needs encompassing a broad spectrum of styles, and ranging from easy to moderate levels of difficulty. Both secular and sacred best sellers are included in the form of carol arrangements and medleys, originals (including a madrigal), a masterwork, openers and closers, and a light concert/novelty offering involving optional audience participation. Several pieces feature added instrumentation-from flute, recorders and continuo, to brass, handbells and percussion. And...if you don't have access to the instruments or instrumentalists, then purchasing the Accompaniment CD will fit the bill! This outstanding collection is also a welcome budget stretcher for your program-all eight pieces for about half the cost than if purchased separately. We are confident that you and your choirs will enjoy these singable solutions for your concerts-and your budget!

Songlist: A Garland of Carols, African Noel, Slumber Song, Christmas Madrigal Roundezvous, Hodie! Alleluia!, A Joyful Noel, Christmas...In About Three Minutes, Merrily Sing Noel!

Tom Fettke : Women Sing Christmas - CD

Review: This wonderful collection of songs for the Christmas season has been arranged especially for ladies voices. A treasury of best-loved songs from Randy Vader and Jay Rouse, this is the companion CD to the songbook of the same name and is an outstanding resource for worship services, concerts, pageants, or other seasonal events.

Songlist: O Come All Ye Faithful, Joy, Joy, Joy, Mary, Did You Know?, Starlight, Star Bright, Come, Messiah King, Coventry Carol, Tell It On The Mountain, Still He Came, A Merry Carol of the Bells, Jesu, Came Upon a Midnight Clear, While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night, Sleep, Holy Child of Bethlehem, Gather Round the Infant King, A Glorias of Christmas

Various Arrangers : Women Sing at Christmas

Review: The romantic a cappella setting of the Carpenters classic, 'Merry Christmas Darling,' will put everyone in the holiday spirit! Warm harmonies and lush choral textures give this rendition its special appeal. "Christmas Wish" - The beloved melody for "Danny Boy" is combined with a beautiful original Christmas lyric for a choral blessing that will create a moment of sheer magic at the close of every Christmas concert or service. Everyone loves "The Twelve Days of Christmas," but it takes so long to sing! This light-hearted setting streamlines all the days into about two minutes with a clever touch that will delight your singers and listeners! It may be sung a cappella or accompanied and will make a perfect encore! "Up on the Housetop" - "Bring me an iPhone with lots of apps" - this jazzy update to the traditional Christmas song really connects with the good little boys and girls of the wired generation! Easily customized with your own personal gift list, this will be a perfect holiday novelty song for concerts and caroling gigs alike!

Songlist: Women Sing at Christmas (Medley), Merry Christmas, Darling, Up on the Housetop, Christmas Wish, Twelve or So Days of Christmas

Alfred Burt : Christmas Carols SSA

Review: These delightful carols are the result of a tradition begun by the Reverend Bates G. Burt, his composer son, Alfred and friend-of-the-family Whila Hutson; for many years these three collaborated on the creation of original carols, which were then sent to friends as Christmas cards. The fifteen carols as published are arranged in three sets. The carols within each set were selected to provide a variety of sound and facility of transition from one carol to the next so that each set may be performed as a program group

Songlist: Caroling, Caroling Long Ago, O Hearken Ye, Nigh Bethlehem, All On A Christmas Morning, We'll Dress The House, Ah, Bleak And Chill Wintry Wind, Christmas Cometh Caroling, Some Children See Him, Jesu Parvule, Bright, Bright, The Holly Berries, The Star Carol, Carol Of The Mother, What Are The Signs, Christ In The Stranger's Guise, Come, Dear Children

Donald Moore : Christmas Madrigals for SSA

Review: "A Holiday Madrigal" - This merry madrigal will be a nice addition to your women's choir's a cappella seasonal repertoire. Characteristic counterpoint makes this original Donald Moore piece a familiar form but, unlike many Renaissance chorals, the vocal ranges, subject matter, and number of voice parts have been specifically designed for developing choirs. A festive feature for holiday concerts and Madrigal feasts. "A Joyful Madrigal" - Here's a new work by Donald Moore in madrigal style that's appropriate for general or Christmas use. Dynamic changes create interest; repetition makes for quick learning. Perfect when you need just one more piece for your Christmas or Spring concert. Lots of optional notes and is an outstanding learning piece for young and developing choirs. "A Merry Madrigal" - A "fa la la" section in this joyful number makes it appropriate for both Christmas and general use. It's a fine learning piece in the madrigal style, yet the singable melodies make the independent vocal lines easy to learn. Don Moore is a master at creating works that develop choral singing, teach a classic choral style and, most importantly, sound great. Use it in concerts and at festivals and adjudications. Develop your choir's a cappella skills with the straightforward original madrigal "Alleluia Madrigal" by Donald Moore. Traditional harmonies, modest ranges, and lots of repetition make it a quick-learn piece. Contrasting dynamics and a lilting three-four meter create a joyful song that is good for Christmas or general use.

Songlist: A Holiday Madrigal, A Joyful Madrigal, A Merry Madrigal, Alleluia Madrigal

Linda Spevacek : A-Caroling We Go!

Review: Here are ten carol favorites in easy-to-sing a cappella settings, each with a special choral introduction and coda that reflects the creative Linda Spevacek touch. From "Here We Come A-Caroling" to "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," this is a collection that makes each carol unique while requiring very little rehearsal time. Choirs of all ages will look forward to their opportunity to share the Christmas spirit as a-caroling they go!

Songlist: The First Nowell, Here We Come A-Caroling, Jolly Old St. Nicholas, We Three Kings of Orient Are, Deck the Hall, O Come All Ye Faithful, Good King Wenceslas, Angels We Have Heard on High, Silent Night, We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Linda Spevacek : Accompanied Christmas Gems for 2 Part Treble Choirs

Review: The new voicings of this best-selling arrangement of the Spanish Carol, 'Riu, Riu, Chiu,' include text options for English or Spanish. Tambourine and hand claps lend a festive, colorful flair. Whether performed with or without piano accompaniment, the limited ranges, repetitious form, and opportunities for solos yield built-in success for holiday programs. The vibrant, festive original, 'Merrily Sing Noel!' is a marvelous opener or change-of-pace selection. Its fanfare-like style and bright mood also offer nice, effective dynamic contrasts. Superb treble writing! 'Christmas Madrigal Roundezvous' is a sparkling, festive, and extremely clever original madrigal, sung in a round, with a contrasting, lilting middle section. The uplifting lyrics of 'A Festive Madrigal' begin that bright, jovial original madrigal, which 'sings in' the holiday season. A marvelous, accessible choice which also works well for smaller ensembles.

Songlist: Christmas Madrigal Roundezvous, A Festive Madrigal, Merrily Sing Noel!, Riu, Riu, Chiu

Linda Spevacek : Sacred Christmas Carols for SSA

Review: The vibrant, upbeat original, 'A Glad Noel' is a marvelous opener or change-of-pace selection. Its fanfare-like style and bright mood will inspire the joyous spirit of the season. Creative and charming, it is easy and accessible, yet sounds sophisticated, make it an ideal choice. 'A Jubilant Gloria' is an exceptional work that offers driving rhythmic excitement from its fanfare-like opening to its exhilarating conclusion. This sophisticated piece sings easily and sounds gloriously full. The new voicings of this best-selling arrangement of the Spanish Carol, 'Riu, Riu, Chiu,' include text options for English or Spanish. Tambourine and hand claps lend a festive, colorful flair. Whether performed with or without piano accompaniment, the limited ranges, repetitious form, and opportunities for solos yield built-in success for holiday programs.

Songlist: A Glad Noel, A Jubilant Gloria, Riu, Riu, Chiu

P.D.Q. Bach - Peter Schickele : A Consort of Choral Christmas Carols

Review: Professor Peter Schickele is an American treasure who is been delighting audiences for almost half a century with his clever, humorous and very entertaining alter ego P.D.Q. Bach. Here are three of his finest songs for SSAA voices. Fun for singers and audiences alike!

Songlist: Throw The Yule Log On, Uncle John, O Little Town of Hackensack, Good King Kong Looked Out

Various Arrangers : Christmas Carols For Children's Choruses

Review: 'Lullay, Lullow' (aka 'Mary's Lullaby') is a 2 part arrangement of the 15th Century English carol. Short, but sweet, this carol is perfect for your beginning choir. Betty Bertaux's 3 part arrangement of 'The Holly and the Ivy' is an excellent edition to your Holiday program, and it also is a great tool to help your children's choir learn to sing polyrhythmic harmonies. 'Christmas Bells' is based on the text written by Heny Wadsworth Longfellow, which he wrote in 1863. During that Christmas season, his son was critically wounded in a war, and the text expresses his anguish over war and his longing for peace on earth. The message is as timely today as it was over 125 years ago. While technically challenging, this setting is a must have in your repertoire! Mary Goetze's arrangement of 'Wexford Carol' (from Ireland) has exquisite 3 part harmonies and gives that special voice in your choir the opportunity for an 8 measure solo. Her arrangement of 'Infant Holy' is another 3 part masterpiece, not to be missed! Both pieces would work well for an advanced children's choir or young women's choir.

Songlist: The Holly And The Ivy, Christmas Bells, Wexford Carol, Infant Holy

Various Arrangers : Christmas Carols for Treble Voices Vol. 2

Review: The gentle arrangement of the Basque traditional tune, 'O Bethlehem,' uses subtly deployed drones to mark it as a shepherds' carol. The paraphrased text is suitable for general Christmas use, especially on Christmas Eve. The medieval English carol, 'What Tidings Bringest Tho, Messenger?' has question-and-answer dialogue between refrain and verses, making it very effective for pageant performance, as well as for church or concert use. Thie full, yet gentle setting of the beloved Christmas hymn, 'Silent Night' is perfect for a candlelight service or quiet concert closer. The low, rocking chords of the background choral parts are the same for all three stanzas. Interest is built by the addition of a second-stanza solo and third-stanza descants. Experiment with assigning the descants to instruments, or with supporting or replacing the lower voices with organ.

Songlist: Lullay! Lullay! Lytel Child, O Bethlehem, What Tidings Bringest Thou, Messenger?, Silent Night, Hodie, I Sing of a Maiden, Lullay! Lullay! Lytel Child

Various Arrangers : Christmas Medleys for Female Voices Vol 1

Review: "Christmas On Broadway" - Raise the curtain and cue the lights! Sure to get any audience into the holiday spirit, this 6 minute medley is a lively choral showcase from Broadway's greatest composers! "A Soulful Christmas" - Hey soul sister, you'll love this sweet R&B flavored medley! Add your best moves and you'll have a wonderful showcase for girls'groups of all ages. Five minutes in length. "A Glee-ful Christmas" - Join the cast of Glee as they spread Christmas cheer with dazzling renditions of these holiday classics in a 10-minute medley that will add sparkle to every December concert! "A Pentatonix Chrsitmas" - The Pentatonix Christmas albums are among their most popular. This 7.5-minute medley combines four of their recent holiday hits for a wonderful seasonal showcase for pop, jazz and concert choirs.

Songlist: Christmas On Broadway (Medley), A Soulful Christmas, A Glee-ful Christmas, A Pentatonix Christmas

Various Arrangers : Christmas Medleys for Female Voices Vol 2

Review: "A Jingle Bell Christmas" - This is a jingle bell medley just for SSA choirs that will almost sing itself! Super easy and a blast to perform. "An Angelic Christmas Medley" - Beginning with a light jazz feel and optional a cappella voices, this medley floats along with contemporary piano accompaniment and touches upon the angelic lyrics of well-known Christmas carols. A beautiful selection for both secular and sacred settings. "Angels!" - Three favorite carols combine to create a Christmas showcase with a contemporary flair! Rhythmic energy brims in this 3-minute setting with unexpected lifts and choral fanfares

Songlist: A Jingle Bell Christmas (Medley), An Angelic Christmas Medley, Angels! (Medley)

Various Arrangers : Sacred Christmas Carols for Women's Voices

Review: Joan Szymko's 3 part arrangement of 'Ave Maria' is beautiful and moving. It is simple, yet profound. Her arrangement also comes with a helpful phonunciation and translation guide. The text of the 'Magnificat' depicts the scene when the Angel Gabriel came to Mary to tell her of the good news that she has been chosen to bear the son of God. This touching moment is captured in the opening plainchant and polyphony, Mary's joy is unveiled in the ensuing dance-like figuration which follows. Another gem by Joan Symko, Hodie, opens with the soprano section, adding the rest of the choir at measure 12. This vigorous take on the Vespers Aniphon is a great addition to your womens choir's holiday concert. David V. Montoya's 'Ave Maria' is written for 4 part women's voices and it is not to be missed. A contemporary version in english, this arrangement's soprano line could easily lend itself well to either a soloist or a group of sopranos. J. Edmund Hughes' arrangement of 'Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming' is quite different than most arrangements of this tune out there. It incorporates a nice solo in the alto line to be sung inbetween the typical verses. The 'background vocals' singing the typical harmonies start out with 3 parts, then grow to 6 parts by the end. This is an exquisite arrangement!

Songlist: Ave Maria, Magnificat, Hodie, Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming

Various Arrangers : Spanish Carols, Lullabies and Folksongs

Review: "Come, come, shepherds let us go! Let's run to Bethlehem." Written in the "Bambuco Fiestero" rhythm of the Andes Mountains of Columbia, the characteristic dance rhythm of 6/8 against 3/4 is the main feature of this a cappella setting. In Spanish, with English translation. "Canticos De Navidad" - Juan Orrego-Sala, a noted Latin American composer, is Professor Emeritis of Composition and Latin American Music at the Indiana University School of Music. This charming set of Christmas pieces reflects his native country, Chile, not only in the language, but in the characteristic rhythms and harmonies. The second of the three, Alleluya, can be extracted for year-round performance, and, although diminutive in length, deserves a place along side the well-known "Alleluia" by Randall Thompson with whom the composer studied. The original settings of "Four Spanish Lullabies" create the feeling of tenderness and sorrow so typical of the Spanish lullaby. A litling Brazilian style lullaby, a 3-part a cappella chorus, a flight of imagination and a comical nursery rhyme make up this compelling set. The energetic Colombian folksong "Maquerule" tells the tale of a friendly baker who learns the hard way to collect the cash upfront! Strong syncopation and a staccato singing section add to the fun. Includes suggestions for using optional percussion.

Songlist: Canticos De Navidad, Maquerule, Four Spanish Lullabies, Fum, Fum, Fum

Various Arrangers : Traditional Carols for Women's Voices

Review: The traditional English carol "Masters in This Hall" is given a lush a cappella treatment by one of the top arrangers in the field. This Haitian folk carol "Haitian Noel" is in the style of a Merengue and will give your concert Caribbean sparkle! A pronunciation guide is provided for the Creole lyrics and English lyrics are also included. "Song of The Angels" is a uniquely evocative setting of the Gloria. Elegant and fluid lines suggestive of Gregorian chant are changed into a freely sung soundscape of great beauty and richness. The gentle, jazz-flavored arrangement of the treasured Gustav Holst/Christina Rossetti carol "In The Bleak Midwinter" will be absolutely stunning in performance! Lush choral textures and rich harmonies unfold one after the other for a magical concert moment! "Do You Hear What I Hear?" -The talented arranger Mac Huff worked his magic on this traditional carol and makes it something that will add a special touch to your Christmas concerts.

Songlist: Haitian Noel, Masters in This Hall, Song of The Angels, In The Bleak Midwinter, Do You Hear What I Hear?

Various Arrangers : Women's Carols

Review: A calypso-flavored treatment of the familiar English carol " The Holly and the Ivy" with a fa-la-la chorus, fresh harmonies and a cool "bass" line for the 2nd altos. Most recently recorded by Clay Aiken, the contemporary carol " Mary, Did You Know?" has continued to grow in popularity. Equally suited for use in school or church, this well-crafted a cappella arrangement is sure to be the highlight of any concert. Absolutely stunning! " Still, Still, Still A Lullaby" is the expressive German carol "Still, Still, Still" paired with an original tune by Michelle Hynson. For high school women's ensembles and beyond. In this gentle a cappella setting, Mac Huff inventively weaves together two Christmas classics "Still, Still, Still" and "Silent Night" for a magical effect. Here is the treasured Franz Gruber folk carol " Stille Nacht" as arranged for the king'singers. This unique island-flavored setting is a joyful and energetic treatment of the traditional 19th century Austrian carol " As Lately We Watched". The heart-warming medley of carols " A Carol Consort" was especially chosen and arranged for SSAA unaccompanied voices. The exquisite voice-leading and contrasting textures make this a must-sing for all women's groups.

Songlist: Mary, Did You Know?, The Holly and the Ivy, One Still and Silent Night, Stille Nacht (Silent Night), As Lately We Watched

Various Arrangers : World Carols for Upper Voices

Review: The arrangement of "The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy" explores the Caribbean style known as "Afro-Cuban": independent melodic lines with strong rhythmic pulses are superimposed to build up textures that are both rich and translucent. Every section of the choir is spot-lit; every section gets its turn to lead. The piece would especially suit a choir in search of something seasonal but upbeat which is not a "novelty number." The Basque carol "The Angel Gabriel" in an exuberant setting by Audrey Snyder can be performed a cappella or accompanied. A wonderful showcase for SSA voices. These a cappella works are a nice addition to the repertoire for women's chorus and includes "Jetzt ist die rechte Freudenzeit" and" Ecce Maria" (Praetorius) with German and English texts.

Songlist: The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy, Two Baroque Christmas Classics, The Angel Gabriel

Mac Huff : A Jingle Bell Christmas (Medley)

Review: This is a jingle bell medley just for SSA choirs that will almost sing itself! Super easy and a blast to perform. Includes: Jingle Bell Rock; Jingle Bells; Jingle, Jingle, Jingle. Available: SSA, ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 3:20.

Sheet Music Available: SSA

Mac Huff : Candy Cane Lane

Review: Delightful 3-part harmonies have just the perfect touch of Western Swing in this Point of Grace tune that will put the cheer in everyone's Christmas! A fabulous selection for SSA choirs of all ages! Available separately: SSA, ShowTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:35.

Sheet Music Available: SAB,   SATB,   SSA

As Performed by: Point Of Grace