Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of 20th-century choral music with Polyphony's "O magnum misterium: 20th Century Christmas Carols." Released in 1996, this captivating album is a testament to the versatility and richness of choral compositions from the past century. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, the album features 29 tracks that showcase a diverse range of styles and influences, all united under the festive theme of Christmas.
Polyphony, under the direction of Stephen Layton, delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. The album includes a mix of well-known carols and lesser-known gems, each piece carefully selected to highlight the unique qualities of the human voice. From the hauntingly beautiful "O Radix Jesse" to the joyful exuberance of "Hodie Christus natus est," every track is a testament to the enduring power of choral music.
The album opens with "O Radix Jesse," setting the stage for a journey through a variety of musical landscapes. The inclusion of works like "Bethlehem Down" and "A Cornish Christmas Carol" adds a touch of folk charm, while pieces like "Verbum caro factum est" and "Puer natus est nobis" showcase the grandeur and solemnity of traditional choral compositions.
"O magnum misterium: 20th Century Christmas Carols" is not just a collection of songs; it is a celebration of the human voice and the timeless appeal of Christmas music. Whether you are a seasoned choral enthusiast or a casual listener, this album offers a rich and rewarding experience. The precise harmonies and dynamic range of Polyphony's performance make it a standout in the choral repertoire, perfect for both festive gatherings and quiet moments of reflection.
Tracks
O Radix JesseAnonymous, Libby Crabtree
3 Carols, Op. 17: No. 3, Alleluya, a New Work Is Come on HandPeter Wishart, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
3 Carol-Anthems: No. 2, A Spotless RoseHerbert Howells, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
5 Carols: No. 2, Out of Your SleepRichard Rodney Bennett, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Of a Rose Is All My SongKenneth Leighton, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
5 Carols: No. 1, There Is No RoseRichard Rodney Bennett, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
As Dew in ApryllePeter Warlock, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
O magnum misteriumAnonymous, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Bethlehem DownPeter Warlock, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
5 Carols: No. 3, That Younge ChildRichard Rodney Bennett, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
I Saw a Fair MaidenPeter Warlock, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
3 Carol-Anthems: No. 3, Sing LullabyHerbert Howells, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Ave MariaAnonymous, Rebecca Outram
5 Carols: No. 4, Sweet Was the SongRichard Rodney Bennett, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
A Hymn of the NativityKenneth Leighton, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Lullaby My JesusPeter Warlock, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Hodie Christus natus estAnonymous, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
All and SomeJohn Byrt, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
3 Carols, Op. 25: No. 3, An Ode of the Birth of Our SaviourKenneth Leighton, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
5 Carols: No. 5, SusanniRichard Rodney Bennett, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Puer natus est nobisAnonymous, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Benedicamus DominoPeter Warlock, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
A Cornish Christmas CarolPeter Warlock, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Reges TharsisAnonymous, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
3 Carol-Anthems: No. 1, Here Is the Little DoorHerbert Howells, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
3 Carols, Op. 25: No. 1, The Star-SongKenneth Leighton, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
What Cheer?William Walton, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
3 Carols, Op. 25: No. 2, Lully, Lulla, Thou Little Tiny ChildKenneth Leighton, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Verbum caro factum estAnonymous, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
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