Mixed Voice Christmas Choral Recordings

Voena : A Cappella Christmas

Review: Annabelle Cruz, founder and Director, brings us a sweet Christmas CD by her very special international choir of boys and girls, ages 7 to 15. Annabelle encouraged them to celebrate their unique sound, and they took off from there, expanding into singing 2 to 4-part harmonies, song arranging and even composing. There are 18 songs, recorded before a live audience at St. Dominic's Church in Benicia, CA. Some are familiar, such as "Carol of the Bells," "Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella," "Gloria/Silent Night," "O Come, O Come Emmanuel, "Alleluia/Amazing Grace," "Angels We Have Heard On High" and "Ave Maria/Holy Child of God." Less familiar but equally wonderful are "Alabanza," the South African carols "Siyahamba," Tchotcholosa" and "Gabbi Gabbi," the Ladino song "Cuando El Rey Nimrod," and the traditional Appalachian and German carols "The Cherry Tree Carol" and "O Come Little Children." Some light percussion and xylophone on some songs. The collection finishes with Praetorius' "Jubilate Deo" and "In My Eyes" by 13-year-old choir member Madeleine Quandt. Another beautiful, recommended CD by VOENA!

Songlist: Carol of the Bells, Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella, Gloria / Silent Night, O Come O Come Emmanuel, Alabanza, O Come Emmanuel, Alleluia / Amazing Grace, Siyahamba, Tchotcholosa, The Cherry Tree Carol, Cuando El Rey Nimrod, Et Dodim, Gabbi Gabbi, O Come LIttle Children, Angels We Have Heard on High, Ave Maria / Holy Child of God, Jubilate Deo, In My Eyes

Voena : Voices of the Seasons

Review: Voena's latest Holiday CD features a culmination of world flavors in a celebration of our cultural diversity. Hear Olivia Hurst (American Idol's season 2007 top 40 finalist), Tori Langfitt (purity to rouse the attention of Disney), Charlie Baggett (12-yr old "Josh Groban-like" sensation), & Aleza D'Agostino (daughter of world-famous Sicilian guitarist, Peppino D'Agostino). From our multiple performances for Presidents Clinton and Bush, including the 2003 & 2005 Pageants of Peace, to our Japan World Expo 2005 tour representing the United States on U.S. National Day, and the many stars gracing the stages with us, we bring the sounds of seasons past, present, and future; Seasons of wonder captured in the angelic voices of this unique and special group of children!

Songlist: When You Wish Upon A Star, Christmas Canon, Il Est Ne, African Noel, Dance For The Nations, O Holy Night, Christmas Star, Carol of the Bels, Vois Sur Ton Chemin, Al Shlosha D’varim, Ave Maria, Fum Fum Fum, A Child Is Born, Ancora Un Estante

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

Westminster Abbey Choir : Christmas Carols from Westminster Abbey

Review: Westminster Abbey Choir is world famous, as is the Director Martin Neary, since he organized the music for the funeral of Princess Diana. Twenty one all-time favorite carols are here sung in modern digital recordings. "Christmas recordings don't come more traditional than this." Robert Cockroft - Yorkshire Post

Songlist: Hark! The Herald Angels sing, Once in Royal David's City, Ding dong! Merrily on high, Coventry Carol, Away in a manger, O Little town of Bethlehem, Silent Night, In the bleak midwinter, O Come, all ye faithful, The Zither Carol, Joy to the world, In dulce jubilo, Good King Wenceslas, I saw three ships, I wonder as I wander, We Three Kings of Orient are, The first Nowell, The three Kings, Jesus Christ the Apple Tree, While shepherds watched their flocks by night, We wish you a Merry Christmas

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

Cambridge Singers : Handel Messiah - The Complete Works

Review: Messiah, (1741), the glorious oratorio by George Frideric Handel, is among the most popular works in the Western choral literature. Here is a fabulous new recording from world-renowned conductor and composer John Rutter. Remarkably, this is the first time Rutter has recorded the Messiah. Named on The Today Show as "the greatest living composer and conductor of choral music," he is probably the most successful choral composer of his generation. Messiah is performed here by the Cambridge Singers, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and conducted by John Rutter. The soloists are Joanne Lunn, Melanie Marshall, James Gilchrist, and Christopher Purves. The 2-CD set includes a 24-page booklet with the text of Messiah and interspersed photos from the recording session at All Hallows Gospel Oak, London. A treasured possession to be enjoyed year after year.

Songlist: Sinfonia, Comfort Ye, My People, Every Valley Shall Be Exalted, And the Glory of the Lord, Thus Saith the Lord, But Who May Abide the Day of His Coming?, And He Shall Purify, Behold, a Virgin Shall Conceive, O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings to Zion, For Behold, Darkness Shall Cover the Earth, The People that Walked in Darkness, For unto Us a Child Is Born, Pifa, There Were Shepherds Abiding in the Field, Glory to God, Rejoice Greatly, O Daughter of Zion, Then Shall the Eyes of the Blind Be Opened, He Shall feed His Flock, His Yoke Is Easy, Behold the Lamb of God, He Was Despised, Surely He Hath Borne Our Griefs, And with His Stripes We Are Healed, All We Like Sheep Are Gone Astray, All They That See Him Laugh Him to Scorn, He Trusted in God, Thy Rebuke Hath Broken is Heart, Behold, and See If There Be Any Sorrow, He Was Cut Off Out of the Land of the Living, But Thou Didst Not Leave His Soul in Hell, and more

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. Louis Children's Choir : Making Seasons Bright

Review: "Making Seasons Bright!" is a sumptuous, joyous 2-disc collection from the 500 singers of the St. Louis Children's Choirs, conducted by Artistic Director Barbara Berner. From the advanced touring Concert Choir and Choristers to the beginning Children's Choir; including the intermediate Chorales, Music Makers, Young Men's Ensemble and Chamber Singers, each of these choirs has its own wonderful sound and personality. There are 44 songs here, many of them familiar standards like "Go Where I Send Thee, "Angels We Have Heard On High," "The Holly and The Ivy," "Silent Night, " "Carol of the Bells" and "Riu, Riu, Chiu," and some tunes we are enjoying for the first time, such as Noel Goemanne's "The Carol of the Dance," Allan Naplan's "Hine Ma Tov," "Douglas Mountain," "S'vivon," Hal Leonard's "Reindeer Jive," Michael Isaacson's "Light the Legend" and several others. It's nice to hear several Hanukkah tunes instead of one or maybe two. All the songs are at least lightly accompanied. "Making Seasons Bright" is a rich collection of holiday music from many different traditions, sung by choirs of beautifully-trained children-what could be better?

Songlist: Disc 1, The Carol of the Dance, This Little Babe, Go Where I Send Thee, There Is No Rose, Hallelujah, Glory Hallelujah, The Time of Snow, Angels We Have Heard on High, The Holly and the Ivy, Douglas Mountain, S'vivon, On Christmas Night, Carol of the Bells, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Hine Ma Tov, Reindeer Jive, Riu, Riu, Chiu, Sweet Songs of Christmas, Jingle Bell Swing, The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy, Light the Legend, Lullaby Carol - Premier, Silent Night, All is Well, Disc 2, Be We Merry, Lullay, Susanni, Welcome, Yule!, What Child, and more

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 : Child Of Light Be Born In Us

Review: "Child of Light" is a 2 CD set recorded at the 93rd Annual St. Olaf Christmas Festival, performed in December of 2004 at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, and it includes the Chapel Choir, Manitou Singers, St. Olaf Cantorei, St. Olaf Choir, St. Olaf Orchestra, and Viking Chorus, performing as individual groups and as a massed ensemble. The CDs included narration and instrumental works, but the focus is on the voices and the beautiful traditional and original Christmas music. We particularly liked Graeme Morton's "In The Spendor" and "A Spotless Rose," Olaf Christiansen's "Light Everlasting," Alexandre Gretchaninoff's "Our Father" and "Only Begotten Son," John Rutter's "Candlelight Carol," Steven Amundson's "Angels' Dance," traditional hymns "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus," Handl's "For Unto Us A Child Is Born," "Lo, How A Rose," "I Saw Three Ships," "O Little Town of Bethlehem" and "Beautiful Savior" by F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the music program and the event in 1912. 32 cuts, many symphonically accompanied. Powerful, beautiful, triumphant music from one of the oldest and finest Christmas music festivals in America.

Songlist: Adagio (Enigma Variations), In The Splendor, Light Everlasting, Narration, Come Thou Long Expected Jesus, For unto us a Child Is Born, A Spotless Rose, Psalm 36, O nata lux De Lumine, Our Father, All My heart This Night Rejoices, Lo, How a Rose, Gospel, Joy To The World, All This Night, Only Only Begotten Son, The Three Kings, I Saw Three Ships, Candlelight Carol, O Little Town of Bethelehem, In The Bleak Midwinter, True Light, Angels' Dance, Carols From Scandinavia, Jeg Er Sa Glad, O Day Full of Grace, Child of Light, Narration, Lord of Light, Narration, and more

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 : Light of All Creation ... Scatter the Darkness

Review: St. Olaf College of Northfield, MN celebrated the first St. Olaf Christmas Festival in 1912, directed by F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the St. Olaf Music Department. The Festival tells the story of the birth of Christ in narration and music, and features The St. Olaf Orchestra, St. Olaf Cantorei, Manitou Singers, St. Olaf Chapel Choir and Viking Chorus, performing both as individual groups and as a massed ensemble. "Light of All Creation" is a 2-CD set, with 15 songs on Disc 1 and 16 songs on Disc 2. Most of the songs are orchestrally accompanied, and there are familiar carols like "All Creatures of Our God and King," "Angels from the Realms of Glory," "O Come, All Ye Faithful," "Good Christian Friends," "E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come," the traditional French carol "What is this Lovely Fragrance" and F. Melius Christiansen's lovely "Beautiful Savior." We were pleased to hear some less familiar and new Christmas songs here, such as Richard Dirksen's "Christ, Mighty Savior," Charles Wood's "O Thou the Central Orb," Joseph Clokey's "Two Kings," Dala Melody's "Prepare the Way," Stanford Scriven's "Jesus Christ the Apple Tree," the Nigerian Folk Song "Oba Se Je" and Dale Wood's "Rise, Shine You People." Other favorites are Rene Clausen's "Psalm 100: Make a Joyful Noise," Benjamin Britten's "Procession and Balulalow" (Ceremony of Carols) and Brian A. Schmidt's "Lux Aeterna." Christmas at St. Olaf" is always a memorable, magnificent event, and each year seems to be even more so, but "Light of All Creation" is one of the best we've ever heard!

Songlist: The Pines of the Janiculum (The Pines of Rome), Narration, Christ, Mighty Savior, O Thou The Central Orb, Narration, All Creatures of Our God and King, Finale (Symphony No.2 Op. 52, "Lobgesang"), Two Kings, Prepare the Way, All This Night, Lux Aeterna, Psalm 100: Make A Joyful Noise, Angels, From The Realms Of Glory, Readings ( Isaiah 60 and Luke 2), Sanctus (Requiem), O Come, All Ye Faithful, In Dulce Jubilo, Procession and Balulalow (Ceremony of Carols), What Is This Lovely Fragrance?, Jesus Christ The Apple Tree, Glory Hallelujah To The New Born King, Oba Se Je, Rejoice!, Good Christian Friends, Carols For Choir And Orchestra, Praise To The Lord, Gloria Patri (Magnificat), Rise, Shine, You People!, Narration, E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come, and more

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 : O Come To Us, Abide With Us Our Lord

Review: For many people over the years, the celebration of the Advent-Christmas-Epiphany season has begun with the annual St. Olaf Christmas Festival, a cherished tradition of the college for nearly a century. The first festival, in 1912, was a worship service in song for the college community, planned and directed by F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the St. Olaf, a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.. Performing both as individual groups and as a massed ensemble are: The St. Olaf Choir, directed by Christopher Aspaas; The St. Olaf Cantorei, directed by John Ferguson; the Manitou Singers, directed by Sigrid Johnson; and the St. Olaf Orchestra, directed by Steven Amundson.

Songlist: Messiah, Prince Of Peace, My Song In The Night, Comfort: Comfort, Narration, Come Thou Long Expected Jesus, There Shall A Star, Lift Up Your Heads, Two Kings, The Best Of Rooms, From Heaven Above, Sweet Was The Song, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, Gospel, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Gaudette, Silent Night, I Saw Ships, God's Son Has Made Me Free, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, Ding Dong! Merrily On High, Gloria, Shepard's Jubilee, Angels' We Have Heard On High, A Christmas Carol, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, Narration, Glorification, Ring Out, Ye Crystal Spheres, Once In Royal David's City, Narration, 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

St. Olaf Choir : Where Peace and Love and Hope Abide

Review: F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the Music Department at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, planned and directed the first St. Olaf Christmas Festival in 1912. Over the next 96 years the Festival has grown to include, as individual groups and as a massed ensemble, the St. Olaf Choir, the St. Olaf Orchestra, the St. Olaf Cantorei, The Manitou Singers and the Viking Chorus and Chapel Choir. The result of the coming together of all this huge and joyous talent easily fills two CDs, 30 pieces with some narration that tell the story of Christmas, beginning with the all-instrumental "Messiah, Prince of Peace" and ending with F. Melius' gorgeous "Beautiful Savior." It's hard to pick favorites, but "For Unto Us a Child is Born" from Handel's "Messiah," Steven Sametz' "Noel!," Carl Schalk's "Before the Marvel of This Night," Donald Fraser's "This Christmastide" (Jessye's Carol), the 6-part medley "Carols for the Choirs" arranged by John Ferguson, F. Melius' lovely "Lullaby on Christmas Eve" and Arthur Honegger's "And God Said: One Day Shall Dawn" (King David) come easily to mind. The recordings from this powerful event never fail to touch and move us. Magnificent!

Songlist: Messiah, Prince of Peace (Trinity Canticles), Prologue (The Apostles), Narration- Pastor Bruce Benson, Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, For Unto Us A Child is Born (Messiah), Alpha to Omega, Entrance Scene: Lord Hosanna (Advent Motet), How Lovely Are the Messengers (St. Paul), Gloria, Noel!, Gloria, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, Gospel (Luke 2:1-20)- Pastors Bruce Benson and Jennifer KoenigIn Terra Pax (Excerpt), Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Before the Marvel of this Night, Gloria, Balulalow, In Thee is Gladness, The Song of Peace, Ding, Dong! Merrily on High, The Christmastide (Jessye's Carol), Good Christian Friends, Rejoice, Glories Ring, Carols for the Choirs: Love Has Come, Carols for the Choirs: On Christmas Night, Carols for the Choirs: Toda La Tierra (All Earth Is Hopeful), Carols for the Choirs: Jeg er Sa Glad (I Am So Glad), Carols for the Choirs: Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht (Silent Night, Holy Night), Carols for the Choirs: Joy to the World, Lullaby on Christmas Eve, and more

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.

Choir of Clare College : Christmas Carols

Review: Enjoy this top-notch choir and get in the Christmas mood by both watching and listening to some wonderful singing directed by Timothy Brown. Filmed at St. Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk, England

Songlist: O come, O come Emmanuel, King Jesus hath a Garden, The Holly and the Ivy, Once in Royal David's city, Stille Nacht, Personet Hodie, In Dulci Jubilo, While Shepards Watched their Flocks by Night, O come, all ye Faithfull, Coventry Carol, God rest you Merry, Gentlemen, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

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)

Sixteen : A Christmas History

Review: A fascinating history of Christmas music! CORO brings the next installment of the BBC s groundbreaking TV series, Sacred Music, to DVD. This documentary and concert performance follows The Sixteen and Simon Russell Beale as they explore the history of Christmas music. The story takes us through two millennia of music, from a fragment of papyrus preserving the earliest known piece of Christian music to the stories behind some of our most popular carols. Russell Beale also presents a special Christmas concert featuring full performances of some of the works featured in the documentary performed by Harry Christophers and his award-winning choir, The Sixteen. Bonus features include seven free audio tracks, trailers for Sacred Music: Series One and Sacred Music: An Easter Celebration, biographies, and related CD information.

Songlist: Make us merry, Hodie Christus natus est, O magnum mysterium, In dulci jubilo, There is no rose, Make we joy now in this fes, Hark! The herald angels sing, A spotless rose, In the bleak mid-winter, O magnum mysterium, Silent Night

St. Olaf Choir : Christmas in Norway

Review: This special is the seventh in a popular series of PBS holiday concerts that have featured the St. Olaf Choir. The Christmas concert commemorates the centennial of Norway's independence and the cultural roots of St. Olaf College, founded in 1874 by Norwegian Lutheran immigrants. Singing in the majestic, 900-year-old Trondheim Cathedral was a highlight for the internationally known St. Olaf Choir, which has performed in prestigious music venues around the world since its founding in 1912 by F. Melius Christiansen, a Norwegian immigrant. Christiansen established the choir's distinctive style of a cappella singing, a tradition carried on today by artistic director and conductor-and St. Olaf College alumnus-Anton Armstrong.

Songlist: Introduction, Canticles Of Light, O Come All Ye Faithful, Lux Aurumque, O Helga Natt True Light, Intermission, Juleverset, O Yule, Full Of Grace, Jeg er sa' glad hver Julekveld, Carol Of The Bells, Lullyby On Christmas Eve, Our Father, Hope For Resolution, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Stay With Us, Beautiful Savior, Light Everlasting, Et Barn Er Fodt I Bethlehem, Julemotet, Geistliches Wiegenlied Op. 91 no. 2, Jeg Er Verdens Lys, O Day Full Of Grace

St. Olaf Choir : Christmas in Norway 2013

Review: Recorded in the historic 950-year-old Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway in 2013.

Songlist: Adeste Fideles (O Come, All Ye Faithful), The Glory of the Father, The Word Was God, Cradle Hymn, Carol of the Drum, Night of Silence/Silent Night, Na tennes tusen julely, Jeg er sa glad hver julekveld, I Saw Three Ships, Lo, How a Rose e'er Blooming/The Rose, O Day Full of Grace, This Little Light of Mine, Go Where I Send Thee!, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Beautiful Savior, Corde natus ex parentis, Mariavise fra Levanger, Even When He is Silent

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)

St. Olaf Choir : Where Peace and Love and Hope Abide

Review: F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the Music Department at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, planned and directed the first St. Olaf Christmas Festival in 1912. Over the next 96 years the Festival has grown to include, as individual groups and as a massed ensemble, the St. Olaf Choir, the St. Olaf Orchestra, the St. Olaf Cantorei, The Manitou Singers and the Viking Chorus and Chapel Choir. The result of the coming together of all this huge and joyous talent easily fills two CDs, 30 pieces with some narration that tell the story of Christmas, beginning with the all-instrumental "Messiah, Prince of Peace" and ending with F. Melius' gorgeous "Beautiful Savior." It's hard to pick favorites, but "For Unto Us a Child is Born" from Handel's "Messiah," Steven Sametz' "Noel!," Carl Schalk's "Before the Marvel of This Night," Donald Fraser's "This Christmastide" (Jessye's Carol), the 6-part medley "Carols for the Choirs" arranged by John Ferguson, F. Melius' lovely "Lullaby on Christmas Eve" and Arthur Honegger's "And God Said: One Day Shall Dawn" (King David) come easily to mind.

Songlist: PBS Introduction, The Song of Peace, Messiah, Prince of Peace (Trinity Canticles), Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, For Unto Us A Child is Born (Messiah), In Terra Pax (Excerpt), Before the Marvel of this Night, Gloria, In Thee is Gladness, The Christmastide (Jessye's Carol), Conductors' And Students' Comments, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Noel!, Ding, Dong! Merrily on High, Glories Ring, Carols for the Choirs: He Came Down tha We May Have Love, Carols for the Choirs: Love Has Come, Carols for the Choirs: On Christmas Night, Carols for the Choirs: Toda La Tierra (All Earth Is Hopeful), Carols for the Choirs: Jeg er Sa Glad (I Am So Glad), Carols for the Choirs: Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht (Silent Night, Holy Night), Joy to the World, And God Said: One Day Shall Dawn (King David), Beautiful Savior

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

Donald Moore : Merry Christmas Madrigals

Review: A merry madrigal will be a nice addition to your 3-part 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, with just enough optional bass notes in the 3-part mixed/SAB for your developing men's section. A "fa la la" section in the joyful number "A Merry Madrigal" 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. Welcomed repetition and smart voice leading pave the way to success for developing 3-part choirs. The guys sing in their easiest range; the sopranos, a mostly step-wise melody; and the altos, intuitive harmonies. Add the optional sleighbells and it's ready to go for Christmas.

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

Hubert Bird : Carols

Review: Two creative and ear-catching sets of arrangements by noted choral arranger and composer Hubert Bird. Each arrangement is skillfully designed to be sung individually or in harmonic sequence: the final chord of each song becomes the beginning of the next.

Songlist: On Christmas Night (The Sussex Carol), Carol of Beauty, My Dancing Day, The Lord at First Did Adam Make, Lullay My Liking, O Come, All Ye Faithful, O Come, O Come, O Come, O Come Emamanuel, The First Nowell

Jay Althouse : Christmas Spirituals for 3 Part Mixed Voices

Review: "Have you heard the story of the baby boy, born in Bethlehem?" From that simple question Jay Althouse has crafted another superb, original Christmas spiritual. It features contrasting dynamics (excellent for teaching phrasing), male and female solos, and a tender middle section which contrasts with the hushed excitement of the opening and closing melody. Includes a descant on the final chorus. " Whisper! Whisper!" - Another memorable Christmas spiritual from Jay Althouse. Strong dynamic contrasts (from "Whisper, whisper, tiny baby in a manger lay" to "Shout it out from the hills and valleys; baby born today") make this a winner for your choir. A lush middle section contrasts with the rhythmic excitement of the opening theme. Brief, easy solos for both a male and female singer. "Star of Glory" is an exciting, original, a cappella Christmas spiritual from Jay Althouse in the tradition of his "No Room," "Have You Heard?," and "Whisper! Whisper!" Lots of effective dynamic contrasts make this a thrilling choral work for both singers and audience. Lush, slow middle section contrasts with up-tempo opening and closing sections. A quality choral work for your Christmas concerts. "Look-A That Star" - What a great new Christmas spiritual! It's the perfect a cappella number for your choir: the simple harmonies and rhythmic pulse propel this piece from beginning to end. Features dynamic contrasts, a lush middle section and two short solos. Your SATB and 3-part mixed choirs will sound their very best on Look-A That Star. " Alleluia Seven" - Much repetition and a catchy makes this 7/8 number deceptively easy to learn. Opens with eight measures in 7/8, then a smooth, homophonic andante section in 4/4, followed by a repeat of the opening 7/8 section. Great for competitions and festivals.

Songlist: Have You Heard?, Whisper! Whisper!, Star of Glory, Alleluia Seven

Jay Althouse : Christmas Spirituals for Mixed Choirs Vol. 1

Review: This exciting original Christmas spiritual, "Goin' To Bethlehem," by Jay Althouse opens with the men stating the rhythmic theme, followed by the middle voices and finally the sopranos. The three verses include much repetition but plenty of surprises-including a women's section contrasted by the men, and an optional high descant on the driving finish. A fresh new work that's solidly rooted in the classic spiritual traditions. An Althouse winner and a must for your holiday concerts! An exiting new Christmas spiritual from Mary Kay Beall and Jay Althouse. "Two folks comin' to Bethlehem town. No room, no room!," Includes brief solos for one male and one female. Every Christmas concert needs a spiritual and this powerful a cappella number is IT! "Have You Heard The News? Is everything you have come to love and expect from a Jay Althouse Christmas spiritual, and a whole lot more. Lively and quick lyrics, solid rhythmic hooks, and refreshing parallel chords fill every phrase, followed by melodic riffs from the men's section. A contrasting middle section gently holds back before the A section returns including a well-written modulation and rousing descant over the final flourish. A great addition to your choral library. "Star Of Glory" is an exciting, original, a cappella Christmas spiritual from Jay Althouse in the tradition of his "No Room," "Have You Heard?," and "Whisper! Whisper!" Lots of effective dynamic contrasts make this a thrilling choral work for both singers and audience. Lush, slow middle section contrasts with up-tempo opening and closing sections. A quality choral work for your Christmas concerts. Another memorable Christmas spiritual from Jay Althouse. Strong dynamic contrasts (from "Whisper, whisper, tiny baby in a manger lay" to "Shout it out from the hills and valleys; baby born today") make this a winner for your choir. A lush middle section contrasts with the rhythmic excitement of the opening theme. Brief, easy solos for both a male and female singer. A cappella.

Songlist: Goin' To Bethlehem, Have You Heard?, Star of Glory, Whisper! Whisper!

Jay Althouse : Christmas Spirituals for Mixed Choirs Vol. 2

Review: A new, original Christmas spiritual by Jay Althouse in the tradition of his top-selling "Whisper!, Whisper!," "I saw a Star," and "Star of Glory." "Come, See The Baby" features much three-part singing over a solid, traditional bass part, as well as an echo section between the women and the men. Sudden dynamic changes are powerful and effective (and simple to sing). "Have You Heard The News" is everything you have come to love and expect from a Jay Althouse Christmas spiritual, and a whole lot more. Lively and quick lyrics, solid rhythmic hooks, and refreshing parallel chords fill every phrase, followed by melodic riffs from the men's section. A contrasting middle section gently holds back before the A section returns including a well-written modulation and rousing descant over the final flourish. A great addition to your choral library. If you're having trouble finding a good, singable spiritual, look no further! Patsy Simms' arrangement of the traditional "Good News" is your choice. Features a rollicking piano accompaniment, some handclapping and a swinging descant on the final chorus. "Festival Deck The Hall" is a fresh and contemporary a cappella approach to a traditional carol. Jay Althouse has added wonderful new rhythms and harmonies, and has added a completely unique "fa la la" section reminiscent of a Swingle Singers arrangement. The first part of each phrase is true to the original carol; it's the "fa la la's" which take off in a whirlwind of choral excitement. Original, exceptional...and your singers will love it! Also included in thiis package is "Look-A That Star," "Who's That Baby," and "The Twenty-Fifth Day Of December."

Songlist: Look-A That Star, Who's That Baby?, Have You Heard the News?, The Twenty-Fifth Day of December, Good News!, Festival Deck the Hall

Jay Rouse : An A Cappella Christmas

Review: Jay Rouse has been recognized as one of the finest arrangers of church choral music to emerge in the last few years. His musical insights, spiritual sensitivity, and skillful creativity come to life in this outstanding choral publication for Christmas. Jay Rouse broadens the scope of his choral arranging through these exquisite, challenging and rewarding arrangements of the Christmas seasons' most timeless classics

Songlist: An A Cappella Christmas Vol 2, An A Cappella Christmas Vol 3, Good Christians, Now Rejoice, Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence, Be Born In Me, Come, Messiah King, Silent Night, Holy Night, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, An A Cappella Christmas Vol 1, Go, Tell It On The Mountain, It Came Upon The Midnight Clear, In the Bleak Midwinter

Jay Rouse : More Christmas A Cappella

Review: Jay Rouse has been recognized as one of the finest arrangers of church choral music to emerge in the last few years. His musical insights, spiritual sensitivity, and skillful creativity come to life in this outstanding choral publication for Christmas. Jay Rouse broadens the scope of his choral arranging through these exquisite, challenging and rewarding arrangements of the Christmas seasons' most timeless classics.

Songlist: A Cappella Christmas Carols Vol 4, A Cappella Christmas Carols Vol 5, A Cappella Christmas Carols Vol 6, O Little Town of Bethlehem, O Holy Night, See Amid The Winter's Snow, Silent Night, Holy Night, Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming, A Merry Carol of the Bells, While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

Jim Papoulis and Francisco J. Nunez : Coolside of Yuletide

Review: Arranged by Jim Papoulis and Francisco J. Nunez for the Young People's Chorus of New York City, these fresh and original sounds will surely appeal to anyone who loves the sights, sounds and colors of the holiday time of year. There is stirring a cappella treatment of the Christmas favorite "Silent Night" . The a cappella treatment of "Deck the Halls" is playful and full of energy with :" How Many Christmasses" a musical wish for peace on earth that will have contemporary relevance and will resonate with today's youth. Serving as an appeal to strike down the differences that create division among us, the song offers an inspirational message for any holiday concert. "Angel Medley" is an arrangement of three well-known carols "Hark, the Herald Angels Sing," "Angels We Have Heard on High," and "The First Noel" uses contemporary musical styles, altered harmonies and word play to expand the palette of the carol experience.

Songlist: Silent Night, Deck the Halls, How Many Christmasses, Angel Medley, Oh Christmas Tree

Ken Berg : Three Estonian Carols

Review: Fun settings of a traditional Estonian carols, these secular winter-themed songs reflects on the joys of winter and skating in a gentle waltz feel. Brisk and energetic songs with simple melody, limited ranges and shared rhythmic patters make them enjoyable for high school mixed choirs.. In Estonian, with a pronunciation guide and a singing English translation, this suits both beginning and more advanced mixed choirs, with quick and easy preparation for both choir and accompanist. Both Estonian and English text.

Songlist: Ule Lume Lagedale (Over Snowy Winter Roads), Skating (Uisutamas), Little Tommy's Choir