Bob Chilcott's "Christmas Oratorio" is a captivating choral masterpiece, released on Delphian Records on November 3, 2023. This album is a celebration of the Christmas season, featuring 20 tracks that span a total of 72 minutes. The oratorio, recorded in the acoustically rich Chapel of Merton College, Oxford, showcases the exquisite harmonies and rich textures that Chilcott is renowned for.
The album opens with the enchanting "Jesus Christ the Apple Tree" and continues with a series of beautifully crafted pieces from the "Christmas Oratorio," including "Lo! How a Rose, eβer blooming," "The Angel Gabriel," and "Magnificat." Each track is a testament to Chilcott's skill in blending traditional carols with contemporary choral arrangements, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
The Choir of Merton College, Oxford, delivers a stunning performance, their voices resonating with clarity and warmth. The Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia provides a delicate and nuanced accompaniment, enhancing the overall listening experience. Soloists, including the renowned Dame Sarah Connolly, add depth and richness to the choral fabric.
"Christmas Oratorio" is not just an album; it's an immersive experience that captures the essence of the Christmas season. From the joyous "A Boy was born" to the reflective "Nunc dimittis," each piece tells a story, inviting the audience to partake in the timeless narrative of Christmas. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply looking for a way to enhance your holiday celebrations, this album is a must-listen.
Tracks
Jesus Christ the Apple TreeBob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia
Christmas Oratorio: I. Lo! How a Rose, eβer bloomingBob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Benjamin Nicholas
Christmas Oratorio: II. The Angel GabrielBob Chilcott, Nick Pritchard, Sarah Connolly, Tim Burton, Chloe Vincent, Olivia Jageurs, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Choir of Merton College, Oxford
Christmas Oratorio: III. MagnificatBob Chilcott, Sarah Connolly, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Benjamin Nicholas
Christmas Oratorio: IV. Hymn: Thou whose almighty wordBob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Benjamin Nicholas
Christmas Oratorio: V. And it came to pass in those daysBob Chilcott, Nick Pritchard, Olivia Jageurs, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Choir of Merton College, Oxford
Christmas Oratorio: VI. A Boy was bornBob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia
Christmas Oratorio: VII. And there were in the same country shepherdsBob Chilcott, Nick Pritchard, Ciara Williams, Chloe Vincent, Olivia Jageurs, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia
Christmas Oratorio: VIII. Hymn: Shepherds in the field abidingBob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Benjamin Nicholas
Christmas Oratorio: IX. And they came with hasteBob Chilcott, Nick Pritchard, Olivia Jageurs, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Choir of Merton College, Oxford
Christmas Oratorio: X. Love came down at ChristmasBob Chilcott, Sarah Connolly, Olivia Jageurs, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia
Christmas Oratorio: XI. Now when Jesus was born in BethlehemBob Chilcott, Nick Pritchard, Neal Davies, Olivia Jageurs, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Benjamin Nicholas
Christmas Oratorio: XII. A Carol to the KingBob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia
Christmas Oratorio: XIII. Hymn: As with gladness men of oldBob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Benjamin Nicholas
Christmas Oratorio: XIV. And when eight days were accomplishedBob Chilcott, Nick Pritchard, Chloe Vincent, Olivia Jageurs, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Choir of Merton College, Oxford
Christmas Oratorio: XV. Nunc dimittisBob Chilcott, Neal Davies, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Benjamin Nicholas
Christmas Oratorio: XVI. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those thingsBob Chilcott, Nick Pritchard, Neal Davies, Olivia Jageurs, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Choir of Merton College, Oxford
Christmas Oratorio: XVII. Hymn: A great and mighty wonderBob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, Benjamin Nicholas
The Pear Tree CarolBob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia
Welcome, all wonders in one sight!Bob Chilcott, Choir of Merton College, Oxford, Francois Cloete, Benjamin Nicholas, Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia
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