London, Ontario, Canada boasts seven children's choirs, and the Youth Singers, founded in 1985, is an auditioned choir of 50 young women ages 12 to 24. John Barron directs this sweet-singing choir in the music of Canadian composter Stephen Hatfield, who were the first choir to commission him, and their early recordings of his work were very important in establishing his reputation. There are 25 cuts here, favorites are "Uberlebensgross," the title tune,"O-Yo-Yo," "Let Me Ask You," the rhythmic "O Sapo," the haunting "A Maid That's Deep In Love" and "Dwa Serduszka." Cuts 13 to 25 are Hatfield's sublime "Christmas Cantata." There's considerable non-vocal percussion, and some flute, bass and acoustic guitar and handbells on the album. The beautiful, soaring blended voices are perfect for Hatfield's excellent compositions. A very special collection by one of the best youth choirs in the world. |
