Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of choral music with Polyphony's "O magnum misterium: 20th Century Christmas Carols." Released on October 1, 1996, under the Hyperion label, this album is a captivating collection of 32 tracks that span a little over an hour and seventeen minutes. Polyphony, renowned for their exquisite vocal harmonies and precise articulation, delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving.
The album features a diverse range of Christmas carols and choral works from the 20th century, showcasing the ensemble's versatility and musical prowess. From the hauntingly beautiful "O Radix Jesse" to the joyous "Hodie Christus natus est," each piece is a testament to the rich tradition of choral music. The selection includes both well-known carols and lesser-known gems, offering a fresh perspective on the holiday repertoire.
Polyphony's interpretation of these pieces is marked by a deep sensitivity to the text and a keen ear for musical detail. The ensemble's blend is impeccable, with each voice contributing to a seamless and resonant whole. The album is a celebration of the Christmas season, capturing the spirit of the holidays through the power of choral music.
Whether you are a seasoned choral music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "O magnum misterium: 20th Century Christmas Carols" is an album that will captivate and inspire. Polyphony's performance is a testament to the enduring beauty of choral music and the timeless appeal of Christmas carols.
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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