Mixed Voice Christmas Choral Recordings

St. Marys Children's Choir : Angel Choir

Review: Regarded as one of Canada's finest children's choirs since its formation in 1981, the choir focuses on musicianship, personal growth and a lifelong love of music. "Angel Choir" is a joyous Christmas collection of 25 songs. Included here are songs we haven't heard, like "The Angel Choir and the Trumpeter," the Catalonian carol "Winter Heaven's Opened," "Christmas Angel," the lilting "Christ is Here," "All Winter Long," Bob Chilcott's "Mid-winter" and "This Joy," Mansel Thomas' "Christmas Star," W.H. Anderson's "Sleep, Little Jesus," Alexander Tilley's "When Christ Was Born of Mary Free," Michael Coghlan''s "December's Rose," Peter Cornelius' "The Three Kings" and others. Combine those with favorites such as "Gesu Bambino," "Carol of the Bells," "O Holy Night" and "Ring Those Christmas Bells," and you have a memorable, joyful Christmas album you will want to play year after year! Some narration, and light accompaniment, particularly piano, on most cuts.

Songlist: The Angel Choir and the Trumpeter, The Task, Book VI, Winter Walk at Noon, Gesu Bambino, Winter heaven's Opened, Christmas Angel, Christ is Here, A Merry Note, All Winter Long, Mid-winter, Christmas Star, Prepare Thyself, Zion, Sleep, Little Jesus, Luke 2 verses 1-14, When Christ Was Born of Mary Free, Love Came Down at Christmas, December's Rose, The Three Kings, This Joy, From the Bells, Kling Glockchen, Nino Lindo, Carol of the Bells, O Holy Night, A Visit from St. Nicholas, Ring Those Christmas Bells

St. Olaf Choir : Dawn Of Redeeming Grace

Review: Those familiar with the works of St. Olaf's know that the choir is part of a long tradition of Scandinavian chorale singing, which often features the compositions and arrangements of the venerated F. Melius Christiansen. One of his arrangements, "O Day Full of Grace," is included here, as well as a seventeenth century spiritual, "O Savior, Throw the Heavens Wide"; a Greek vespers (evening prayer service) hymn, "Hail, Gladdening Light," and various other liturgies. There is piano accompaniment on "Gloria in excelsis Deo" and the spiritual, "Here's a Pretty Little Baby." The purity of the tones and blend is all the more amazing, as the recording was done live. Elegant and pristine.

Songlist: O Savior, Throw The Heavens Wide, Hail, Gladdening Light, Let All Mortal Flesh, There is No Rose Of Such Virtue, Benedictus, Carols & Lullabies: Christmas In The Southwest, All This Night, In Terra Pax, Cherubim Song, Rejoice, Rejoice This Happy Morn, What Sweeter Music, Gloria In Excelsis Deo, Here's A Pretty Little Baby!, Laudate Dominum (Une Cantate De Noel), Angels' Dance, At The Manger: Carols For Choirs, Night Of Silence / Silent Night, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, O Day Full Of Grace, The Spirit Of The Lord, Once In Royal David's City, Nune Dimittis

St. Olaf Choir : Yule Full Of Gladness

Review: The St. Olaf Choir was formed in 1911 by Dr. F Melius Christiansen, a Norwegian immigrant. So began a tradition of a cappella choral singing that continues under the present direction of Anton Armstrong, himself an alumnus of St. Olaf College. Armstrong has incorporated compositions from other cultures, which comprise a good portion of this CD's content. The Latvian "Ai, Nama Mamina," South-African "Freedom Is Coming" and Chinese Folk Song, "Peng You," among others, offer fresh contrast. Several tracks have unassuming accompaniment, such as the flute on "Water Under Snow Is Weary." The arrangements are conventional in approach and seek to calm, rather than excite. The overall vocal timbre, while grounded in the Western classical tradition, retains a natural unstudied quality.

Songlist: My Song In The Night, Freedom Is Coming, P'eng You, This Christmastide (Jesse's Carol), Jeg Er Sa Glad Hver Julekveld, The Friendly Beasts, Angel's Carol, Carol Of the Bells, Water Under Snow Is Weary, Ai, Nama Mamina, O Yule Full Of Gladness, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, Star In The East: A Suite Of Carols, I Believe This Is Jesus, A La Nanita, El Nino, Go Where I Send Thee

St. Paul's Cathedral Choir : Love Came Down at Christmas

Review: A wonderful Christmas recording from St Paul's Cathedral. Malcolm Archer`s own carol gives its title to this inspiring new collection from the wonderful acoustic of this world famous Cathedral. Included also is his arrangement of "Silent Night" as well as six superb & now standard arrangements by Sir David Willcocks, alongside the beautiful setting of Christina Rosetti`s "In the bleak mid-winter". Full texts included! "Whether it is for singing along by the fireside or sitting in exhausted contentment when the guests have gone, this year`s seasonal CDs offer ample choice. The choir of St Paul`s Cathedral tops the list of new discs of traditional fare with Love came down at Christmas, conducted by the cathedral`s director of music, Malcolm Archer."- Daily Telegraph

Songlist: Silent Night, Hark the herald angels sing, In the bleak mid-winter, Es ist ein Ros, The three Kings, Of the Father`s heart begotten, Tomorrow shall be my dancing day, Once in Royal David`s City, Ding, dong, merrily on high, I sing of a maiden, In dulci jubilo, God rest you merry gentlemen, The Sussex carol, Love came down at Christmas, The shepherds` cradle-song, See amid the winter`s snow, Rocking, O come, all ye faithful

St. Petersburg Chamber Choir : Russian Christmas

Review: The Orthodox Christians of Russia have long celebrated the great mid-winter feast of the Nativity, a time of intense fasting and prayer followed by feasting. The St. Petersburg Chamber Choir brings us little-known choral music by composers such as Aleksandr Grechaninov (1864-1956) "Voskliknite Gospodevi vsya zemlya, Op. 19 No. 2," and Pavel Chesnokov (1877-1944) " No. 1 "Presvyataya Bogoroditse" and anonymous composers ("Dobr'ii vechir Tobi," "Pavochka khodit" and "Nova radist' stala") that tell the Christmas story from the traditions of the Russian Orthodox Church. There are 20 beautiful, intense, soaring selections here, especially from mezzo-soprano soloist Olga Borodina.

Songlist: Voskliknite Gospodevi vsya zemlya, Op. 19 No. 2, Bororoditse Devo, Tebe Poem, Perelozheniya iz obikhoda, No. 1 Slava v v'ishnikh Bogu, No. 2 Rozhdestvo tvoe, Christe bozhe nash, No. 9 Khvalite Gospoda s nebes, Velichit dusha moya Gospoda, Op. 93, Deva dnes', Sacred Choral Works, Op. 43, No. 1 Presvyataya Bogoroditse, No. 3 Miloserdiya dveri otverzi nam, No. 4 Ne umolchim nikogda, Bogoroditse, No. 6 Zastupnitse userdnaya, Dubr'ii vechir Tobi, Rozhdestvo Christovo angel priletel, Nebo i zemlya, Pavochka khodit, Noch tikha noch svyata, Nova radist' stala, Vzglyani syuda, Rozhdestvo Khristovo ves mir prazdnuet

SWR Stuttgart Vocal Ensemble : Four Centuries of Christmas Music

Review: Here is a highly intelligent collection of reflective and joyous music for the Christmas season! Soprano McFadden and Baritone Olaf Bar join the Mainz Cathedral Choir and Stuttgart Vocal Ensemble in this all-accompanied collection of some of the most beautiful, classical Christmas music of all time. Ten songs, the 3 movements of Michael Praetorius' "3 Motetten aus Polyhymnia Caduceatrix & Panegyrica," Bach's "aus dem Weihnachtsoratoium BWV 248 Hirtenmusik," Haydn's "Ein Magd, ein Dienerin," Otto Nicolai's "Weihnachtsouverture" and Benjamin Britten's "Men of Goodwill" are favorites. Wondrous Christmas pieces from the 16th to 20th centuries, sung by a multitude of talented voices.

Songlist: Motetten aus "Polyhymnia Caduceatrix & Panegyrica, In dulci jubilo, Puer natus, Wachet auf, Hirtenmusik (Sinfonia), Arie "Gro§er Herr, o starker Koig", Ein' Magd, ein' Dienerin, O Jesulein sub, stimmiger Chor a-cappella, Weihnachtsouverture, Vom Himmel hoch, Variations on a Christmas Carol

Tapiola Children's Choir : Tapiola Choir Christmas

Review: Over three decades have passed since the founding of the Tapiola Choir, then known as the Tapiola Children's Choir. Shortly after their founding, in 1973 they released "Tapiolan Joulu" ("Christmas With Tapiola"). If you have ever heard that classic album you can't help but be moved by the bell-like chime and purity of the children's voices. On this new Christmas recording the Tapiola Choir, long since recognized as an international treasure, creates a richer, more mature sound with the addition of a couple of dozen young adult voices belonging to the 'seniors.' The choir's founder, Prof. Erkki Pohjola wished to share the experience of creating this recording with former members because this is to be his last as conductor and director of the choir. Additionally, the breadth of the arrangements was enhanced by use of orchestration which never occludes the beauty of the choir and special guest Jorma Hynninen, the celebrated Finnish operatic baritone. The recording begins with an a cappella version of the Australian folk song, "Mary, Handmaiden of the Lord" which was the first three part song ever sung by the original "Choir of the Lower Forms of Tapiola Secondary School." Progressively the song list increases in festivity, youthful fun predominates, and then imperceptibly the feeling returns to the original spirit of Christmas until, finally the choir closes the recording with the a cappella "At Christmas, God Came on Earth." This beautiful recording is not only a testimonial to the young singers of Tapiola but a superb passing of the musical baton to the new conductor, Kari Ala-Pollanen.

Songlist: Maria, Herran piikanen, God Rest You Merry Gentlemen, O Holy Night / Oi, jouluyo, The Joy of Giving, Kulkuset fantasia / Fantasy on Jingle Bells, Tonttujen joulukuusi / Elves around the Christmas Tree, Nigra sum / I Am Black, Noel des enfants qui n'ont plus de maisons, Kuului laulu enkelten, Go, Tell It on the Mountain, Foudu, satakiel, Katso, ihme taivainen, En etsi valtaa, Ioistoa, Maa on niin kaunis, Jouluna Jumala syntyi, Joulukranssi kuudella kielella, - Joulun kellot / Softly, Softly, - Nu tandas tusen juleljus / A Thousand Candles Burning Bright, - Tiliseb tiliseb aisakell / Jingling, Jingling Sleigh Bells Ring, - Leise rieselt der Schnee / Silent Sleeps the Singing Snow, - Mele kalikimaka, - Entre le boeuf.../There in the Hay of the Ox's Stall, - Arkihuolesi kaikki heita / Cast off Thy Everyday Cares

Tenebrae : A Very English Christmas

Review: Described as "phenomenal" (The Times) and "devastatingly beautiful" (Gramophone Magazine), the BBC Music Magazine Award award-winning choir Tenebrae, under the direction of Nigel Short, one of the world's finest vocal ensembles renowned for its passion and precision return to disc on Signum with a sumptuous album of Carols, Hymns and other celebratory works for Christmas. Among the composers to feature on this disc are John Gardner, Peter Warlock, Philip Ledger and Arnold Bax, A singer of great acclaim, Nigel Short was a member of the world-renowned vocal ensemble The King's Singers from 1994-2000. Upon leaving the group, he formed Tenebrae, a virtuosic choir that embraced his dedication to passion and precision.

Songlist: I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing In, There Is No Rose, Tomorrow shall be my dancing day, Love Came Down at Christmas, Rejoice and Be Merry, The Birds, Benedicamus Domino, Adam Lay Ybounden, I Saw a Fair Maiden, Balulalow, As Dew in Aprylle, Adam lay ybounden, On Christmas Day, On Christmas Night, I Sing of a Maiden, No Small Wonder, Come Rock His Cradle, I Sing of a Maiden, Mary Walked Through a Wood of Thorn, A Gallery Carol

Tenebrae : Dream of Herod - Christmas and Advent Music

Review: The Dream of Herod traces an evolution from dark, brooding introspection to dawning effulgence. Torment and inner violence make way for the mystery of forgiveness and hope in a succession of six brief scenes. Herod, a ruthless, blood-stained king is condemned to restless reflection on the genocide he has inflicted on his own people. Uncertain whether he is lost in sleep or wakefulness, he witnesses a procession of figures that distil the essence of his branded conscience. Imprisoned by the horror of his deeds, he sees his pathway to release, illuminated by the very voices of those he most feared. "Tenebrae is a professional choir, established by former King's Singer Nigel Short to address the market for fine singing in fine buildings. Jacques Villeneuve and James Bowman are among the group's patrons, testimony to Short's networking powers. The conductor stresses the passion and precision generated by his singers and the enjoyment comes from the inspired repertoire selection. Plainsong smoothly covers the joints between works such as Peter Wishart's Alleluya, Hadley's I sing of a maiden and Short and Richard McDonald's effective The Dream of Herod."

Songlist: Alleluya, O Radix Jesse, A Spotless Rose, Rorate Coeli, Of The Father's Heart Begotten, Ave Maria, I Sing of a Maiden, Puer Natus Est Nobis, A Flower Given To My Daughter, Silent Night, Sussex Carol, Away in a Manger, Adeste Fideles, O Come All Ye Faithful, The Dream of Herod:, Herod's Despair, The Visit of the Magi, The Chorus of the Voiceless Infants, The Chorus of the Parents of Judaea, Mary and Joseph Appear to Herod, Jesus Appears to Herod

Tenebrae : What Sweeter Music

Review: Tenebrae is a professional chamber choir, founded and directed by Nigel Short in 2001. Often performing by candlelight, the choir creates an atmosphere of spiritual and musical reflection, where medieval chant and renaissance works are interspersed with contemporary compositions. The carefully selected team of singers use the acoustic and atmosphere of the building to enable the audience to experience the power and intimacy of the human voice.

Songlist: Jingle Bells, Silent Night, What Sweeter Music, A Spotless Rose, Quem Pastores?, Veni, veni, There Is A Flower, Alleluia, The Lamb, I Wonder as I Wander, Quelle est cette odeur agreable?, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, The Oxen, Gaudete, Away in a Manger, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, Nativity Carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas

The Choral Project : Of Christmastide

Review: Though founded only in 1996 by Artistic Director Daniel Hughes, this ensemble of thirty voices has already begun to distinguish itself with an eclectic program. As part of their mission, the group seeks to unify diverse peoples, and the track list for "Of Christmastide" reflects this concern. Weighted somewhat towards the 20th century, with Williams, Tavener, Rutter, Holst and Lauridsen amongst the composers represented, the balance includes two Latvian carols, James McKelvey's arrangement of "Deck The Hall in 7/8" and the Nigerian "Betelehemu." Their sonority is broad and expansive, with an airy and open delivery. Some percussion and woodwinds on a few tracks.

Songlist: Hodie Christus natus est, Terly Terlow, Personent Hodie, Sweet Was the Song, Two Latvian Carols, THe Boar's Head Carol, Eso rigor e repente, Three Kings of Orient, Salvation Is Created, Carol From an Irish Cabin, A La Nanita Nana, Deck the Hall (in 7/8), O Magnum Mysterium, Wassil Song, Lo, How a Rose e're Blooming, Betelehemu, Silent Night

The Choral Project : Winter

Review: The 45-voice ensemble Choral Project under the direction of David Hughes is rapidly developing a solid reputation for choral excellence and this release of Christmas music and songs inspired by the season is a delight. The recording includes the first commercial release of Eric Whitacre's composition "Winter" which makes for fascinating listen along with works by Avro Part, Jester Hairston and David Maddux. A particular favorite is the Greg Smith arrangement of "The 12 Days of Christmas" which is sung with great panache by this top-notch choir.

Songlist: Gloria - Argento, A Child Is Born In Bethlehem, Bring A Torch, Jeanette, Isabella, Ave Maria, In Dulce Jubilo, Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming, Winter, Bogoroditse Djevo, Lullabye My Jesus, The Twelve Days Of Christmas, Jing-ga-lye-ya - Sled, Keresimesi Odun De O, Mary's Little Boy Child, Christmas Goes Classical, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

The Outback Singers : Christmas in Australia

Review: It's impossible not to enjoy these songs from famous Australian Choral group The Outback Singers, featuring classic Christmas hits as well as favorite hymns.

Songlist: Christmas Song, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Little Drummer Boy, Jolly Saint Nick, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Oh Come All Ye Faithful, Deck the Halls, Joy to the World, We Wish You A Merry Christmas, The First Noel, Christmas is Christmas all Over the World, Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer, Sleigh Ride, Winter Wonderland, Ding Dong Merrily on High, Good King Wenceslas, Jingle Bells, White Christmas, Wonderful Christmas, Silver and Gold

Toronto Children's Chorus : Along The Road to Bethlehem

Review: The sound of the children's voices raised in song is a touchstone of the holidays. Add to the mix the internationally renowned tenor Ben Heppner and members of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and you have a recipe for a truly special Christmas disc! The Chorus invokes a magical quality to Christmas music past and present, ranging from traditional favourites to a contemporary holiday fable sure to charm even Scrooge!

Songlist: Star Carol, The Kings, Sussex Carol, See Amid The Winter's Snow, Jesus Child, Song Of The Crib, Wexford Carol, The Garden Of Jesus, Good King Wenecelas, Hey Now, Mid-Winter, Farewell!!! Advent, Shepherd's Pipe Carol, Jesus Christ The Apple Tree, The Last Straw - A Christmas Fable

Trapp Family Singers : Christmas with the Trapp Family Singers

Review: Who doesn't know the dramatic and true story of the Von Trapp Family, who escaped from their Austrian homeland under the Nazi occupation? This singing family relocated to America, where they performed and recorded for many years. No novelty act, the ensemble, under the direction of conductor Dr. F. Wasner, sings first-rate a cappella arrangements (with the exception of "Ihr Kinderlein Kommet") of European carols, such as the Italian "La Canzone Di Natale," the Tyrolean "Es Hat Sich Heut Eroffnet" and the Polish "Shepherds Come A-Running." Some of these melodies will be familiar to American audiences, but some will not, which is part of their charm. This 1950's era mono recording is clean, present, and immediate; the vocal blend of the group is so natural and perfectly pitched, it requires nothing to complete it.

Songlist: Deck the Halls, Es Ist Ein Ros Entsprungen, Hirten, Wachet Auf!, Zu Bethlehem Geboren, A La Nanita Nana, El Est Ne, Le Divin Enfant, La Canzone Di Natale, Es Hat Sich Heut Eroffnet, Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head, Shepherds Come A-Running, Lobt Gott Ihr Christen All Gleich, Es Wird Scho Glei Dumpa, Nu Ar Det Jul Igen, Ihr Kinderlein Kommet, Der Scheibendudler, Carol of the Drum, Deine Wangelen, Weihnachtslied (Silent Night)

Treble Chorus of New England : Rejoice and Sing

Review: Rejoice and Sing, by the Trebel Chorus of New England, offers a varied selection for the Christmas season. The chorus led by founding directior Marie Stultz is expanded on this CD to include tenors and basses for some pieces. Many of the pieces featured were originally intended for childrens voices, such as "Wolcum Yole" and "This Little Babe" from Britten's Ceremony of Carols. The disc includes many traditional favorites (O, Come All Ye Faithful; O Holy Night) as well as a piece written by Stultz (Suite on the Nativity). These children are sure to brighten up your holiday mood.

Songlist: Wolcum Yole, This Little Babe, Lo, I Bring Joyful Tidings, Wir eilen mit schachen, In dulci Jubilo, Psallite, Song of the Crib, O, Come All Ye Faithful, O Holy Night, Lullaby, Panis Angelicus, Suite on the Nativity, op. 3, Maria Walks Amid the Thorn, Wake, Awake for Night is Flying, Susani, Come Running, You Shepherds, Queen pastores laudavere, Gloria

UCLA Madrigal Singers : Hark, How The Bells

Review: The UCLA Madrigal Singers, the 22 member mixed-voice premiere chamber choir led by director/arranger Donn Weiss, brings us this "best-of" holiday album, which represents nearly 25 years of audience favorites, the best-loved Christmas songs heard at Royce Hall and at their traditional Twelfth Night concerts. We of course enjoy standards like "Angels We Have Heard on High," "Deck the Hall," "O Holy Night" and "Stille Nacht," but we particularly like more obscure music like Catherine Bennett's "Christ Child Carol," Benjamin Britten's "Christ Child Carol," the Scottish Carol "Balloo Lammy," Herbert Howells' "A Spotless Rose," the Spanish "Carol of the Birds," Daniel Pinkham's "Come Love We God," the Austrian carol "Still, Still, Still," and the Puerto Rican folksong "De Tierra Legana Venimos." The full, rich sound of the Singers makes "Bells" ring out as a very special and varied Christmas collection. Occasional light accompaniment.

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard on High, Deck the Hall, Christ Child Carol, A Boy Was Born, Baloo Lammy, Flemish Carol, A Spotless Rose, Joy to the World, In the Bleak Midwinter, Carol of the Birds, Come, Love We God, Still, Still, Still, Bring a Torch, Jeannette, Isabella, Carol of the Bells, De Tierra Lejana Venimos, O Holy Night, Love Came Down at Christmas, Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence, Pat-a-pan, A Christmas, Estampie Natalis, Stille Nacht

University of Louisville Cardinal Singers : A Time To Cherish

Review: "A Time to Cherish is a lovely a cappella Christmas collection from The University of Louisville (KY), Cardinal Singers, which was founded in 1970. The 45-strong, mixed-voice ensemble has gained a reputation for excellence under Dr. Hatteburg, from International competitions in Europe, symposiums in Japan, to ACDA Conventions in the US. There are 22 finely-crafted songs here, from traditional carols like "Ding Dong! Merrily on High," "Carol of the Bells," "Angels from the Realms of Glory," "Away in a Manger," "I Saw Three Ships," "Coventry Carol," "Deck the Hall" and "Joy to the World" to less familiar material, Herbert Howells' "A Spotless Rose," Arvo Part's "Bogoroditse Djevo," Elizabeth Poston's "Jesus Christ the Apple Tree," Juris Vaivods' Ti Divam Duorgi Laiki," Frank Martin's "Sanctus," Ralph Vauhan Williams' "The Blessed Son," and the Paul Brandvik-arranged "Lulajze, Jezuniu."

Songlist: Ding Dong! Merrily On High, Ave Maria (2005), Weihnachten, op. 79 no. 1, The Infant King, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, A Spotless Rose, Bogoroditse Djevo, O Magnnum Mysterium, Jesus Christ the Apple Tree, Carol of the Bells, Angels, From the Realms of Glory, Away In A Manger, Ti Divam Duorgi Laiki, I Saw Three Ships, Ave Maria (1996), Sanctus, The Blessed Son, Coventry Carol, Rocking, Dack the Halls, Lulajze, Jezuniu, Joy to the World

University of Utah Singers : Christmas Morn

Review: This CD of Christmas music, recorded Fall 2004 in Libby Gardner Concert Hall, features eleven carols by composers and arrangers from Utah. Enjoy arrangements of such perennial favorites as "Angels We Have Heard on High", "Deck the Halls", "Carol of the Bells", "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas", "O Holy Night", "Hark", and "Silent Night", and bask in the holiday spirit conveyed by original carols such as "Christmas Morn", "Night of All Nights", "Jesus the Savior is Born" and "Star of Bethlehem". A must for every Christmas season!

Vocal Arts Ensemble of Cincinnati : Christmas Holidays

Review: Celebrating its 25th Anniversary Season, the 25-strong mixed-voice VAE, directed by Earl Rivers, is a professional choir that advocates and promotes a repertory of innovative and traditional choral music. They have twice received an ASCAP-Chorus America Award for "Adventuresome Programming of Contemporary Music." Light accompaniment of harp and oboe on most cuts, except for the High Renaissance a cappella tunes "Quem vidistis, pastores?" by Richard Dering, and Palestrina's "Canite tuba." 18 songs: "Fum, fum, fum!," "Three Nativity Carols" by Stephen Paulus, Wm. Dawson's spirituals "Mary Had A Baby" and "Behold The Star," John Tavener's "The Lamb," Frank Ferko's 4-part piece from "A Festival of Carols," Bror Samuelsson's "Ave Maris Stella" and Steven Sametz' "Irish Lullaby" are standouts. Extensive liner notes with all lyrics. This is a finely-arranged, beautifully-performed collection, sure to brighten your holiday season!

Songlist: Three Nativity Carols, The Holly And The Ivy, This Endris Night, Wonder Tidings, Mary Had A Baby, Welcome All Wonders, Ave Maris Stella, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, The Sky Can Still Remember, Do You Know The Song That The Angels Sang, Christmas Bells, Quem vidistis, pastores?, The Lamb, Canite Tuba, The Rune Of Hospitality, Behold The Star, Irish Lullaby, We Three Kings

VocalEssence : Welcome Christmas

Review: The world premiere recording of Conrad Susa's beloved Carols & Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest, plus a delightful collection of carols from around the world, tied together by their diversity and charm. Featuring the VocalEssence Ensemble Singers with woodwinds, cello, bass, harp, guitar and percussion under the direction of conductor Philip Brunelle.

Songlist: Carols & Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest, What Sweeter Music, Sussex Carol, Sing Hallelu!, Pat-a-Pan!, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Christ Was Born on Christmas Day, O Little Town of Bethlehem, The Friendly Beasts, Infant Holy, Infant Lowly, Ding, Dong, Merrily on High, 'Tis Winter Now, It came Upon the Midnight Clear, Away in a Manger, The Holly and the Ivy

Voces8 : Christmas

Review: The international award-winning octet VOCES8 has established itself as the foremost young British a cappella group. Performing repertoire ranging from Renaissance polyphony to unique jazz & pop arrangements, the group has been praised for stunning performance, exquisite singing and creating a sound that spans the entire range of vocal color.cv

Songlist: Once in Royal David's City, Gabriel's Message, Magnificat Quinti Toni, O Magnum Mysterium, Away in a Manger, Ding Dong Merrily on High, I Wonder as I Wander, Totus Tuus, Coventry Carol, Jesu, Swete Sone Dear, At the Manger Mary Sings, Videntes Stellam, In Dulci Jubilo, Bethlehem Down, There is no Rose, Nesciens Mater, The Three Kings, What Cheer?

Voices Of Lee : Christmas

Review: The 15-strong (9 men and 6 women) undergraduate Gospel chorus of Cleveland, Tennessee's Lee University brings us ten beautiful Christmas songs, "Joy to the World," "Tennessee Christmas," "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town," "Let There Be Peace On Earth," "Carol of the Bells," "A Star Was Born," "Winter Wonderland," "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas," "Keep Christ In Christmas" and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas." The 15 voices have the harmonic power of a chorus, while allowing the individual voices to shine on leads and solos, and what strong, wonderful, soaring voices they are. An exceptional CD, musically and spiritually, from the talented young Voices of Lee!

Voz en Punto : Mexico en Navidad

Review: Three-Man, two women a cappella ensemble from Mexico, Voz en Punto is a spirited, talented quintet with fine harmonies, arrangements and a nice, clean sound, and the extensive liner notes have all lyrics and lots of info about the group. Unfortunately for this English speaker, all this information, as well as everything on all the websites about the group we found, is in Spanish. But certain things are pretty clear: There are 18 cuts and most of the material is traditional and sacred music, for example Tomas Luis de Victoria's "Ave Maria," Hernando Franco's "Sancta Maria," "Dios Itlaconantzine," "Jesos de mi goracon," "Eso rigor e repente" and "Mano fasiquivo." Some of it is funny in a manic sort of way; examples of this are Jose Galvan's "Navidad mexicana," "El nacimiento," "Elintercambio" and Son Veracruzano's "El tilingo navideno." The bottom line is, Voz makes fine harmonies, looks young and attractive, has a good sense of humor, and judging by the number of websites about them, has a legion of appreciative fans!

Songlist: Las posadas, Arrullo, Oiga morenita, Navidad mexicana, Letania, Ave Maria, Sancta Maria, Dios Itlaconantzine, Jesos de mi goracon, Eso rigor e repente, Mano fasiquiyo, Nochpochtzine, A wue la gusto, Por el valle de rosas, El nacimiento, El intercambio, El tilingo navideno

Western Wind : Angel Voices

Review: The versatile six-member Western Wind bring us a "sacred vocal collection for Christmas, Medieval, Renaissance, Early American, Contemporary." Twenty amazing cuts, from William Billings' "Boston" and "Bethlehem" to Elliot Levine's "Mary Heard The Angel's Voice" and "I Lift Up Mine Eyes To The Mountains," the Western Wind shows off its authenticity and diversity. Just listen to "If Anybody Ask You Who I Am," "I Believe This Is Jesus," Hale Smith's "I'm Coming Home," "The Cherry Tree Carol" and di Lasso's "Nos Qui Sumus" and you'll appreciate how good Western Wind really is!

Songlist: Boston, Bethlehem, What Child is This?, The Cherry Tree Carol, If Anybody Ask You Who I Am, I Believe This is Jesus, Magnificat Primi Toni, Nos Qui Sumus, O Sacrum Convivium, Mirabile Mysterium, Includemur Nube Caliginosa, Flos Regalis, Expression, Weeping Mary/To the Land, Jesus Born in Bethlea, Mary Heard the Angel's Voice, I Lift Up Mine Eyes to the Mountains, I'm Coming Home, Dormant (Sleep, downy sleep), New Britain (Amazing Grace)/The Promised Land

William Ferris Chorale : Snowcarols - Christmas Music by William Ferris

Review: Attractive choral works by an important American composer (and choral director). Title track "Snowcarols" was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize when it was written in 1980. The William Ferris Chorale is one of the finest mid-sized choirs in the nation. The group has performed at the Aldeburgh Festival and the Spoleto Festival, and has given over 175 world, American, and Chicago premieres of important new literature. "The William Ferris Chorale sang beautifully - they had style and a lovely sound - a superb job." - The Washington Post. "For more than three decades the William Ferris Chorale has occupied a special niche in the Chicago area's rich choral music scene. The ensemble has regained its well-remembered form since Paul French became music director. He has infused it with new vitality, new vision, new purpose." - Chicago Tribune

Songlist: The Lord Said to Me, Gentle Mary, Lift Up Your Heads, O Might Gates, Infant Holy, Infant Lowly, O Mary of Graces, Long Is Our Winter, Hail Mary, Come, Lord, and Tarry Not, Creator of the Stars of Night, The snow lies thick upon the earth tonight, The snow lay on the ground, In the bleak mid-winter, See amid the winter snow, Christmas Eve

World Voices : A World of Christmas

Review: Who better than the cosmopolitan World Voices to record a collection of Christmas music from around the world. Experience the incredible diversity of musical styles in the songs and carols of Christmas from the choral tradition of countries as diverse as Norway, Catalonia, Mexico, Bohemia China and Poland. Director Karle Erickson does a superb job with many of his arrangements and includes arrangements by others such as Jerry Rubino, David Wilcocks and William Dawson. Highlights include "El Cielo Canta Alegria" and two movements of John Rutter's "Gloria." Most of the tracks are accompanied.

Songlist: Jingle Bells, Joy To The World, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Ihr Kinderlein Kommet, El Rorro, Jeg Er Saa Glad, Twas in The Moon Of Wintertime, The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year, Lulajze Jezuniu, Angels We Have Heard On High, Da Droben Vom Berge, Gloria In Excelsis Deo, Come, Hear The Tidings, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, Pengyou Ting, El Cielo Canta Alegria, Mary Had A Baby, Cold December Flies Away, Quoniam Tu Solus Sanctus

Young People's Chorus of New York City : Coolside of Yuletide

Review: CoolSide of Yuletide brings an exciting new sound and youthful energy to classic holiday carols. These urban arrangements were developed by noted composer, Jim Papoulis and Francisco J. Nunez, Artistic Director of the award-winning Young People's Chorus of New York City. Thanks to modern digital technology, "How Many Christmases" unites Grammy-winning singer and songwriter Rosanne Cash and the Young People's Chorus of New York City with a global mix of choirs from across the 50 United States as well as Europe, Australia, Africa and Asia. The result is the first ever "virtual" global choir raising their voices in harmony.

Songlist: Deck the Hall, Joy to the World, Where Are My Angels?, Song For Peace, Oh Christmas Tree, Angel Medley, How Many Christmases?, We Three Kings, Let it Snow, Little Drummer Boy, Abreme la Puerta, Home, Give Us Hope, Silent Night

Joseph M. Martin : Sing a Song of Christmas

Review: Written especially for developing choirs, this festive SA(T)B cantata is overflowing with joyful seasonal songs ideal for smaller ensembles. Original material mingles with traditional carols in a jubilant mix, crafted to create large musical impact with minimal numbers and rehearsal time. The musical variety ranges from galloping gospels, to contemporary ballads and joyful carols to tender manger lullabies. Larger groups can take advantage of the cued notes for richer sonorities and still enjoy the sensitive care taken to minimize awkward passages for quick learning. A flexible narration allows thoughtful directors to customize their programs while optional orchestral support brings appropriate instruments to the programming of this innovative cantata for Christmas. The cantata can even be done progressively throughout Advent and completed during Christmas celebrations. Available separately: SA(T)B, Listening CD, Preview Pack (Book/CD combo), 10-Pack Listening CDs, Orchestration (Score & parts for keyboard, flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone and percussion), StudioTrax CD (Accompaniment only), SplitTrax CD, RehearsalTrax CDs (part-predominant, reproducible). Duration: ca. 27:00.

Bob Chilcott : The Angry Planet

Review: The three works on this 2CD set further confirm Bob Chilcott's status as one of the world's most popular active choral composers. Five Days That Changed The World creates a strikingly vivid and personal account of each of five protagonist's experiences of a historical event. The Miracle of the Spring celebrates the pursuit, and eventual discovery, of water. The Angry Planet (2012) combines the precision and skill of the BBC Singers and The Bach Choir with the exuberance of a host of young persons and Children's choirs, including The Young Singers, London Youth Choir and Finchley Children's Music Group.

Songlist: The Angry Planet

Polyphony : Handel Messiah

Review: Annual live performances of Handel's Messiah at St John's Smith Square with Polyphony and Stephen Layton have become one of the highlights of the musical season. The joyful sincerity and brilliance of the performers has brought this familiar story to vivid life again and again. Now this wonderful experience is available on disc, recorded in 2008 for a new release that will surely prove a strong competitor even in a crowded market. Polyphony is joined by the Britten Sinfonia and a quartet of magnificent young soloists - all variously acclaimed as the premier Handel singers of the new generation.

Songlist: Messiah

St. Olaf Choir : A Child, A Son, The Prince of Peace

Review: Founded at Northfield, MN's St. Olaf College by F. Melius Christiansen, the St. Olaf Christmas Festival, which tells the story of the birth of Christ through music and narration, gets bigger and better every year! It features the St. Olaf Choir, the St. Olaf Orchestra, St. Olaf Cantorei, St. Olaf Chapel Choir, the Manitou Singers and the Viking Chorus; performing both as individual groups and as a massed ensemble. "A Child, A Son, The Prince of Peace" is a two-CD set, with 13 beautiful and moving cuts on Disc One, and 18 on Disc Two. Gorgeous, inspiring and magnificent, from beginning to end!

Songlist: Messiah, Prince of Peace, Lo, How a Rose,, Speak a Word to Us, Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying, Isaiah's Voice, Prepare the Way, What Child, Carol of the Drum, See, Amid the Winter Snow, Chichester Psalms, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Ring Out, Wild Bells, To Us a Child Is Born, Hodie Christus natus est, Past Three A Clock, Sing We Now of Christmas, In Silent Night, Here's a Pretty Little Baby!, Shepherd's Jubilee, Angels We Have Heard on High, At the Manger: Carols for Choirs, Silent Night, Dona nobis pacem, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Where Shepherds Lately Knelt, Beautiful Savior

St. Olaf Choir : For God So Loves The World

Review: This is a 2-CD set of one of the largest and most magnificent Christmas events, the 95th annual St. Olaf Christmas Festival at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, featuring the St. Olaf Choir, St. Olaf Orchestra, St. Olaf Cantorei, Manitou Singers, Chapel Choir and Viking Chorus, performing both as individual groups and a massed ensemble. In reviews of previous festivals, we often wondered if anything had to be left on the cutting room floor, but with this 2-CD set removes all such thoughts. John Steiner's "God So Loved the World," Caroline Jennings' "Climb to the Top of the Highest Mountain," "Christ is Alive," Founder F. Melius Christiansen's "Lost in the Night," John Ferguson's "Isaiah's Voice" and "Mary's Story and The Magnificat," Paul Webber's "Arise, Shine," Rosephayne Powell's "The Word Was God," Miles Lane's "All Hail the Power," Benjamin Britten's "The Spirit of the Lord"... these beautiful songs are interspersed with narration about the story of Christmas. If you have heard one or more of these collections, you will know how wonderful and inspiring they are. If you haven't, prepare yourself for a sumptuous Christmas treat!

Songlist: Lo, How A Rose e'er Blooming, God So Loved The World, Climb To The Top Of The Highest Mountain, Christ Is Alive, Christus Paradox, Lost In The Night, Isaiah's Voice, A Spotless Rose, Mary's Story And The Magnificat, The Road Ahead, Arise Shine, And The Glory Of The Lord, Joy To The World, The Word Was God, Karin Boye's Evening Pyayer, Out Of Your Sleep Arise, Gloria, The Godly Stranger, Go Where I Send Thee, O How Beautiful The Sky, Pat-A-Pan, Betelehemu, Go Tell It On The Mountain, Praise To The Lord, The Spirit Of The Lord, All Hail The Power, Beautiful Savior

St. Olaf Choir : My Spirit Sings of Wondrous Things

Review: One of the most enduring musical Christmas traditions, Northfield, Minnesota's St. Olaf College celebrated its 97th Annual St. Olaf Christmas Festival in December of 2008. This massive event features the St. Olaf Choir, St. Olaf Cantorei, Manitou Singers, St. Olaf Chapel Choir and Viking Chorus, performing both as individual groups and as a massed ensemble with the St. Olaf Orchestra. The program is narrated, telling the story of the birth of Christ, "illustrated" by carols, spirituals, classical Christian pieces and original songs such as the final cut, "Beautiful Savior," written by the founder of the Festival and St. Olaf's musical program, F. Melius Christiansen. Presenting this 32-part event in its entirety requires two CDs, beginning with Steven Amundson's "The Gift," and it's hard to pick favorites. Certainly the 6-part "Carols from Around the World" medley needs to be included, the a cappella "How Great Are Thy Wonders," Z. Randall Stroope's accompanied "There Is No Rose," the Basque Carol "The Angel Gabriel," the Irish traditional "Canticle of the Turning," Jester Hairston's "Mary's Little Boy Child," Gian Carl Menotti's "Shepherd's Dance," and the Danish tune "Bright and Glorious is the Sky." A tremendous event, filled with joyous singing and the telling of a wonderful story. Entensive liner notes give us the lyrics to all songs, and details about the music and St. Olaf College.

Songlist: The Gift, Keep Your Lamps, Narration, A New Magnificat, O Come, O Come Emmanuel, Awake The Harp (The Creation), How Great Are Thy Wonders, There Is No Rose, Magnificat "Collegium Regale", Welcome, All Wonders, The Angel Gabriel, Canticle of the Turning (stanzas 1-2), Gospel Reading, Canticle of the Turning (stanzas 3-4), Joy to The World, Gloria, Dona Nobis Pacem, Alleluya, A New Work Is Come On Hand, What Wonderous Love, Mary's Little Boy Chile, Noel, Sanctus (Mass), Shepherd's Dance, Bright and Glorious Is the Sky, Carols From Around the World, Joy to the World, O Day Full of Grace, In Endless Morn of Light, Once in Royal David's City, Nunc Dimittis, and more

St. Olaf Choir : What Child Is This?

Review: A Christmas Tradition at St. Olaf College in Northville, MN, since it was begun in 1912 by the late F. Melius Christianson, the St. Olaf Christmas Festival is an expression of the school's Christian conviction and rich musical heritage. Included are the St. Olaf Choir, chapel Choir and the Viking Chorus, the Campus Choir, the Manitou Singers, the St. Olaf College Orchestra and the St. Olaf Handbell Ensemble. Thousands of people attend the concerts year after year, and they are treated to a magnificent, dramatic retelling of the Christmas story in song. All orchestrally accompanied, there are 21 songs, beginning with the magical "Fantasia on Greensleeves" and continuing from the sacred, like "Vox Dicentis: Clama" and "Hodie, Christus Natus Est," to familiar carols, "Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming?," the title tune and "I Saw Three Ships," to the eclectic, lesser-known Christian music, "And God Said: The Day Shall Dawn" and "Salvation Is Created." "What Child Is This" is a wonderful collection of choral and orchestral talent, marvelous music arranged and directed by the finest, culminating in a huge, multi-faceted pageant of celebration and praise!

Songlist: Fantasia On Greensleeves, Lift Up Your Heads, Ruler Of Heaven, Vox Dicentis: Clama, Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming?, Softly, Softly Fell The Snow, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, Salvation Is Created, Hodie, Christus Natus Est, Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful, From Heaven Winging, Shepherds, Shake Off Your Drowsy Sleep, From Heaven Above, Dance Of The Shepherds, What Child Is This?, Carols For The Choirs, Praise The Lord, O My Soul, I Saw Three Ships, O Day Full Of Grace, And God Said: The Day Shall Dawn, All Hail The Power Of Jesus' Name

Western Wind : Holiday Light

Review: A rich assortment of holiday music from the Middle Ages to the present, woven together with narration by Roma Downey (Touched By An Angel). Holiday Light features glorious new arrangements of "Angels We Have Heard," "Silver Bells" and "Christmas Time Is Here" (of Charlie Brown fame), created especially for this double CD set. "Sung with impeccable intonation, flawless balance and a supple sense of rhythmic flexibility that keeps the ear in a constant state of anticipation." - Buffalo News

Songlist: Angelus ad Virginem, Angels We Have Heard On High, Mi Fe Vengo De Belen, Quem Vidistis Pastores, Bethlehem, Mary Heard The Angel's Voice, Of A Rose, The Cherry Tree Carol, Little Book Lullaby, There Is A Flower, Xiocochi Conetzintle, Sweet Little Jesus Boy, I Saw Three Ships, The Darknest Night, If Anybody Ask You, Somerset Wassail, Silver Bells, Christmas Time Is Here

Mary Lynn Lightfoot : Singable Solutions for Winter Holidays

Review: Get ready...get set....and SING! your way through the winter holidays with these eleven creative solutions for your two-part treble classroom and concert needs. Included are exciting selections for Christmas (both sacred and secular), Hanukkah, and hilarious holiday novelty offerings. In addition, for those of you who need general holiday and winter selections, we've included those as well, along with a "peace-themed" song, especially appropriate for the New Year. The composer/arranger list is a who's who of educational choral music today and these titles have all been excellent sellers as individual octavos. Now they are available in this practical, accessible collection for less than half the cost than if purchased separately-a welcome budget stretcher for your music program. We are confident that you will enjoy these singable solutions for your classroom, concerts--and your budget!

Joseph M. Martin : Sing a Song of Christmas

Review: Written especially for developing choirs, this festive SA(T)B cantata is overflowing with joyful seasonal songs ideal for smaller ensembles. Original material mingles with traditional carols in a jubilant mix, crafted to create large musical impact with minimal numbers and rehearsal time. The musical variety ranges from galloping gospels, to contemporary ballads and joyful carols to tender manger lullabies. Larger groups can take advantage of the cued notes for richer sonorities and still enjoy the sensitive care taken to minimize awkward passages for quick learning. A flexible narration allows thoughtful directors to customize their programs while optional orchestral support brings appropriate instruments to the programming of this innovative cantata for Christmas. The cantata can even be done progressively throughout Advent and completed during Christmas celebrations. Available separately: SA(T)B, Listening CD, Preview Pack (Book/CD combo), 10-Pack Listening CDs, Orchestration (Score & parts for keyboard, flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone and percussion), StudioTrax CD (Accompaniment only), SplitTrax CD, RehearsalTrax CDs (part-predominant, reproducible). Duration: ca. 27:00.

Concordia Choir : Journey to Bethlehem

Review: The re-imagined Christmas story takes viewers and audience members on a musical "Journey to Bethlehem," combining the pageantry of opera and the grandeur of choral orchestral masterworks. Composer Dr. Rene Clausen weaves sonorous and celebratory Christmas music throughout the concert.

Songlist: There Is No Rose of Such Virtue, E'n So Lord Jesus, Quickly Come, Do You Hear What I Hear?, Silent Night, Sanctus, Betelehemu, Mannerchor, Estampie Natalis, Veni Sancte Spiritus, I Wonder As I Wander, Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness, Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing, Praise To The Lord, Stay With Us, Compline

Concordia Choir : O Come All Ye Faithful

Review: With almost 20,000 attendees at their annual Christmas series of concerts and the airing on PBS television and radio stations across the nation has certainly made the Concordia Choir a great Christmas tradition for many. The 400 voices celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with some spectacular arrangements including "Gesu Bambino" and the title track "O Come All Ye Faithful". Two new compositions by director Rene Clausen, who has over the 26 years he has been directing the choir become world-renown, are superb. Always top-notch this choir continues to build upon it's already excellent reputation.

Songlist: Fantasia On O Come, O Come Emmanuel, Watchman, Tell Us Of The Night, O Come Al Ye Faithful, Gesu Bambino, Advent Motet, People Look East, There Is No Rose, Lo, How A Rose E'Er Blooming, ary's Wonder, Lux Aurumque, He IS Born, Jesus Jesus Rest Your Head, Sanctus (From Mass), Hodie Christus Natus Est, Mary Had A Baby, O Day Full Of Grace, Carol Of The Drum, We Three Kings Of Orient Are, Mothering God, You Gave Me Birth, Ring Out Ye Crystal Spheres From Hodie, Compline

Concordia Choir : O Holy Night

Review: On the cover of "O Holy Night" we see an awesome giant Christmas mural, with the huge Concordia Choir in front of it, and The Concordia Orchestra in the foreground. This massive Christmas celebration has been an annual event for many years, and it just keeps getting bigger and better. 24 songs, with spoken parts, all accompanied, some familiar ("Angels We Have Heard On High," "O Holy Night," "Joy to the World"), some unfamiliar ( "Of the Father's Love Begotten," "Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah," "Calm on the Listening Ear of Night"), but together in sequence they magnificently tell the Christmas story. "O Holy Night" is a triumph, one of the best of the year!

Songlist: Prelude On How Brightly Shines the Morning Star (J. Robert Hanson), Of the Father's Love Begotten, Angels We Have Heard On High (arr. Rene Clausen), O Holy Night (arr. Rene Clausen), There Is No Rose of Such Virtue (Christopher Brown), Light Everlasting (Oloaf Christiansen), Lost In the Night (arr. F. Melius Christiansen), Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (arr. Wayne Wold), Vene Sanctus Spiritus (Jacques Berthier), All My Heart This Night Rejoices (arr. Ralph Johnson), Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day (arr. John Rutter), He Is Born (arr. Donna Gartman Schultz), Before the Marvel of this Night (arr. Carl Schalk), Good Christian Friends, Rejoice! (arr. Paul Nesheim), Calm On the Listening Ear of Night (Kenneth Jennings), Twelfth Night (Samuel Barber), How Great Our Joy (arr. John Rutter), Nowell Sing We, Both All and Some (Raymond Monelle), Infant Holy, Infant Lowly (arr. Paul J. Christiansen), Sussex Carol (arr. Philip M. Young), Jeg er saa glad (arr. Paul Nesheim), Go, Tell It On the Mountain (arr. Carolyn Jennings), Psalm 150 (Alberto Ginstera), Joy To the World (arr. Charles Fosberg), Comline (arr. Rene Clausen)

Luther College Nordic Choir : Christmas at Luther 2008

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

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

St. Olaf Choir : Love Divine Illume Our Darkness

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

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

Joseph M. Martin : Sing a Song of Christmas

Review: Written especially for developing choirs, this festive SA(T)B cantata is overflowing with joyful seasonal songs ideal for smaller ensembles. Original material mingles with traditional carols in a jubilant mix, crafted to create large musical impact with minimal numbers and rehearsal time. The musical variety ranges from galloping gospels, to contemporary ballads and joyful carols to tender manger lullabies. Larger groups can take advantage of the cued notes for richer sonorities and still enjoy the sensitive care taken to minimize awkward passages for quick learning. A flexible narration allows thoughtful directors to customize their programs while optional orchestral support brings appropriate instruments to the programming of this innovative cantata for Christmas. The cantata can even be done progressively throughout Advent and completed during Christmas celebrations. Available separately: SA(T)B, Listening CD, Preview Pack (Book/CD combo), 10-Pack Listening CDs, Orchestration (Score & parts for keyboard, flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone and percussion), StudioTrax CD (Accompaniment only), SplitTrax CD, RehearsalTrax CDs (part-predominant, reproducible). Duration: ca. 27:00.

Joseph M. Martin : Sing a Song of Christmas

Review: Written especially for developing choirs, this festive SA(T)B cantata is overflowing with joyful seasonal songs ideal for smaller ensembles. Original material mingles with traditional carols in a jubilant mix, crafted to create large musical impact with minimal numbers and rehearsal time. The musical variety ranges from galloping gospels, to contemporary ballads and joyful carols to tender manger lullabies. Larger groups can take advantage of the cued notes for richer sonorities and still enjoy the sensitive care taken to minimize awkward passages for quick learning. A flexible narration allows thoughtful directors to customize their programs while optional orchestral support brings appropriate instruments to the programming of this innovative cantata for Christmas. The cantata can even be done progressively throughout Advent and completed during Christmas celebrations. Available separately: SA(T)B, Listening CD, Preview Pack (Book/CD combo), 10-Pack Listening CDs, Orchestration (Score & parts for keyboard, flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone and percussion), StudioTrax CD (Accompaniment only), SplitTrax CD, RehearsalTrax CDs (part-predominant, reproducible). Duration: ca. 27:00.

Theatre of Voices : The Christmas Story

Review: Inspired by the much-loved service of "Nine Lessons and Carols" given every Christmas Eve in England, this recording presents the Nativity story told through plainchant, motets, 17th Century dialogues, and traditional folk carols. Paul Hillier leads Theatre of Voices and Ars Nova Copenhagen in music he has culled and arranged from Italian, German, Danish, English, and American sources.

Songlist: Rorate coeli desuper, Veni veni Emanuel, Eis ist ein Ros entsprungen, Dum deambularet Dominus in Paradisum, Adam Lay Y Bounden, In dulci iubilo, Missus est Gabriel, Puer natus est, O magnum mysterium, Voi ch'ai notturni rai, Dormi, dormi, o bel bambin, Liebe Hirten, Andachtsjodler, We Three Kings, Videntes stellam, Personent hodie, Herodes iratus, Vox in Rama, Uebers Gebirg, Maria wallt zum Heiligtum, The holly and the ivy, Barn Jesus i en krybbe la, We wish you a merry Christmas

Abbie Betinis : Carols A Cappella

Review: The most famous American Christmas carol family is undisputably the Burt family. The carols of Bates and Alfred Burt and the Christmas carol cards they sent are now part of our hymnody and folklore. Abbie Burt Betinis is the great granddaughter of Bates and grand niece of Alfred, and is continuing the tradition with freshness and craftsmanship. A noted and often commissioned composer in her own right, she brings skill and talent to this unique genre in a way no one else could. The verse and chorus form reminds us of an English carol, but the text, taken most often from other Burt family members, are very American. Enjoy this energetic carol with sacred text by John Harris Burt

Songlist: Run, Toboggan, Run, Hail, Christmas Day!, Prayer for Peace

Alfred Burt : Christmas Carols SATB

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

Anita Kerr : Christmas Charts

Review: Anita always enjoyed Christmas and her singers were busy at that time of year. Here are three of her accompanied arrangements that will give both your ensemble and audience the holiday cheer.

Songlist: It's Beginning To Look Like Christmas, White Christmas, We Need a Little Christmas

Derric Johnson : Christmas in Velvet Charts

Review: Quite probably the busiest performing a cappella group in the country The Voices of Liberty are also one of the longest running professional a cappella groups as they perform several sets each and every day at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. The group follows in an even longing-running tradition of Regeneration, as both are almost the same as they were both directed by, and perform almost exclusively the arrangements of, the great Derric Johnson. The sheet music we've all been waiting for, finally some of Derric Johnson's finest Christmas arrangements have been printed for us to sing! Included are 3 Volumes of 4 songs each from the namesake recordings.

Songlist: A Cappella Christmas Vol. 1, Away in a Manger, Gesu Bambino, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, O Holy Night, A Cappella Christmas Vol. 2, Deck the Halls, Go Where I Send Thee, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, Jingle Bells, A Cappella Christmas Vol. 3, Christmas In The Air, French Chorale of Praise, Pat-a-Pan, We Wish You A Merry Christmas