A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28by Benjamin Britten Performer:
Heidi Lehwalder (Harp)
Conductor:
Michael Korn
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Philadelphia Singers,
Concerto Soloists of Philadelphia
Period: 20th Century Written: 1942; England Language: English
2.
Motets (4) pour le temps de Noëlby Francis Poulenc Conductor:
Michael Korn
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Philadelphia Singers,
Concerto Soloists of Philadelphia
Period: 20th Century Written: 1951-1952; France Language: French
3.
Lauda per la Nativitŕ del Signoreby Ottorino Respighi Performer:
David Gordon (Tenor),
Benita Valente (Soprano),
Maureen Forrester (Alto)
Conductor:
Michael Korn
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Philadelphia Singers,
Concerto Soloists of Philadelphia
Period: 20th Century Written: 1928-1930; Italy Language: Italian
Customer Reviews
Average Customer Review: ( 3 Customer Reviews )
Best Classical Christmas AlbumDecember 14, 2017By Rolf Erdahl See All My Reviews"This album is simply transcendent. Spectacular performances of some familiar works and lesser-known gems. We learned of this CD from one of the performers, John de Lancie, long-time Principal oboe of the Philadelphia Orchestra and guest artist with the Concerto Soloists for this CD. He counted this among the favorites of his recorded performances. The soloists, Benita Valente, Maureen Forrester, and David Gordon, are evenly strong. Harpist Heidi Lehwalder show the full range of power and tenderness the harp is capable of in the Britten. The Philadelphia Singers and Concerto Soloists conducted by Michael Korn are right on the mark with effective tempi, balances, and sheer musical drive. "This Little Babe," from Britten's Ceremony of Carols is spine-tingling. Poulenc's "Four Christmas Motets" and Respighi "Laud to the Nativity of the Lord" are not heard as frequently as the Britten, but this recording makes a strong case for making them top-list requests from the Christmas canon. This recording contains three sharply different masterworks, from Britten's harp and treble choir, to Polenc's acapella motets, to Respighi's exquisitely orchestrated Laud to the Nativity. It's quality and variety make for one of the most intriguing, uplifting, and deliciously palatable Christmas albums ever."Report Abuse
A true Christmas offering.December 25, 2014By (Tracy, CA)See All My Reviews"The Britten was well done. The Laud to the Nativity was a gem. This piece is dear to my heart. Benita Valenti was a beautiful Angel. Maureen Forester was about the best Mary I have heard. Thanks for the lovely gift."Report Abuse
Beautiful and moving performances.December 1, 2013By JOSEPH ERDELJAC (WEST CHESTER, PA)See All My Reviews"All the works on this recording are wonderfully performed by all singers. They use their voices to the best ability in service to the style of the works, never over singing and always with the proper amount of emotion and delivery."Report Abuse