Following in the very large footsteps, and the 57-year tenure of Weston Noble at Decorah, IA's Luther College, Dr. Craig Arnold returned to serve as director of choral activities, conductor of the Nordic Choir, and professor of music at Luther. "Everlasting God" is a spirited collection of 20 songs, which highlight the rich, powerful sound of this great choir. Rene Clausen's "Laudate," two selections from Herbert Howells' "Requiem," the wonderful 6-part "Liebeslieder Walzer, op. 52" by Brahms, the Stephen Paulus-arranged traditional hymn, "We Gather Together," the 2-part "The Lord is the Everlasting God" by Kenneth Jennings, Ola Gjeilo's haunting "Ubi Caritas," the heart-tugging "Danny Boy" and the spiritual "Wade in the Water" are favorites. There is some light piano and organ accompaniment. Luther College places a focus and emphasis on music instruction and performance found in few other institutions, and that's why we consistently hear recordings of the highest quality-the Nordic Choir is simply one of the best in the world! |
