Twenty-five tracks narrated by Theodore Bikel, who explains and describes much of the tradition associated with each composition, this frequently and beautifully accompanied CD reflects the "diverse and multi-national nature of the Jewish experience." The detailed liner notes further elaborate on Jewish history and the CD's content, which encompasses Sephardic songs, folk melodies, European nineteenth-century classical, and more. "Maoz Tzur" (Rock Of Ages in English), is a German synagogue melody with an arrangement from 1720 by the Italian, Marcello. The Western Wind, a mixed sextet, has a refined and cultured tone, and each piece is performed with a quiet dignity. |
