The art of the Christmas carol extends back to the Middle Ages, producing a richly varied tradition that continues to the present day. This programme highlights the evolution of Christmas music: from early monastic carols such as the original plainchant of O come, O come, Emmanuel; through the beautiful 16th-century melodies Lo, how a rose e’er blooming and the Coventry Carol; to the mighty splendours of later eras as exemplified by J.S. Bach, Vivaldi and Berlioz, with Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus from Messiah reigning supreme.
This classic VOX recording featuring the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Robert Shaw was originally issued on the 2-LP set Nativity in 1976.
The Elite Recordings for VOX by legendary producers Marc Aubort and Joanna Nickrenz are considered by audiophiles to be amongst the finest sounding examples of orchestral recordings.
Works:
•Johann Sebastian Bach: Sinfonia & Chöre "Break forth, o wondrous morning light" & "Jesus, guide my beginning" aus Weihnachtsoratorium BWV248
• Johann Sebastian Bach: Dona nobis pacem aus Messe h-moll BWV232
• Hector Berlioz: The Shepherd's Farewell aus "L'Enfance du Christ"
• John Francis Wade: Adeste fideles
• Antonio Vivaldi: Gloria in excelsis Deo & Et in terra pax aus Gloria D-Dur RV 589
• Antonio Vivaldi: Violinkonzert op. 8 Nr. 4 "Der Winter" (1. & 2. Satz)
• Georges Bizet: Farandole aus L'Arlesienne-Suite Nr. 2
• Johannes Brahms: There is a Rose in Flower
• Gian-Carlo Menotti: Introduction, March and Shepherd's Dance aus "Amahl and the Night Visitors"
• Georg Friedrich Händel: Hallelujah aus Der Messias
• Ottorino Respighi: The Adoration of the Magi aus "Trittico Botticelliano"
• Traditionals: O come, O come, Emmanuel
• Traditionals: So Blest a Sight; Dormi, Jesu! Mater ridet
• Traditionals: Lo, how a rose e'er blooming
• Traditionas: Coventry Carol