Kantorei began in 1997 as a group of 6 friends who got together to sing Christmas carols. The group has grown to a 32-voice mixed ensemble, attracting some of the best vocal talents. From medieval texts to 20th century tonalities, the Christmas journey begins with "Star in the East," a suite of 3 dramatic Appalachian carols, accompanied by hammered dulcimer, including "Rise Up Shepherd," which was originally published as a slave song in 1867. Herbert Howells' "Long, Long Ago," John Paynter's "The Rose," a lilting, joyous "Sing We Now of Christmas," a lovely soprano solo on "Some Children See Him," a fine "Ding Dong! Merrily On High," Lauridsen's "O Magnum Mysterium," Rutter's sweet "There Is A Flower," a moody "Carol Of The Birds" and Robt. Young's "There Is No Rose of Such Virtue"-this collection welcomes the diverse spectrum of Christmas sentiment across miles and centuries. Beautiful and recommended.