Sumi Jo, Michael Schneider & Cappella Coloniensis - Sumi Jo - The Christmas Album (LP)

Sumi Jo, the renowned South Korean soprano, joins forces with Michael Schneider and the esteemed Cappella Coloniensis for a captivating exploration of Christmas music, released on Warner Classics International. This album, titled "The Christmas Album," offers a rich and diverse collection of classical and traditional Christmas pieces, spanning from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

The album opens with a traditional arrangement by the Carter Family, leading into a selection of works by Bach, Scarlatti, and Mozart, among others. Sumi Jo's exquisite vocals shine through in pieces like "O Holy Night" and Mozart's "Exsultate, jubilate," showcasing her remarkable range and emotional depth. The Cappella Coloniensis provides a lush and authentic backdrop, with Michael Schneider's direction ensuring a harmonious blend of voices and instruments.

With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a comprehensive journey through the festive season's musical heritage. It includes well-known carols like "Stille Nacht" and "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen," as well as lesser-known gems like Scarlatti's "O di Betlemme altera povertà" and Bernhard's "Fürchtet euch nicht!" The album concludes with a serene rendition of "Silent Night," leaving the listener with a sense of tranquility and joy.

Sumi Jo's "The Christmas Album" is a testament to her artistry and the enduring beauty of classical Christmas music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sumi Jo or new to her work, this album is sure to delight and inspire during the holiday season and beyond.