Experience the enchanting sounds of the festive season with "A Christmas Caroll from Westminster Abbey," a captivating collection of choral works performed by the renowned Choir of Westminster Abbey under the skilled direction of James O'Donnell. Released on October 1, 2008, this album is a celebration of the holiday spirit, featuring a diverse range of compositions that span various styles and eras.
The album opens with a traditional arrangement of "In dulci jubilo" by Pearsall, setting the stage for a journey through the rich tapestry of Christmas music. The four motets from "4 Motets pour le temps de Noël" by Francis Poulenc are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the choir's versatility and precision. These pieces, along with other highlights such as "The Shepherd's Carol" by John Rutter and "Stille Nacht" arranged by Bowers-Broadbent, offer a blend of familiar carols and lesser-known gems.
James O'Donnell's conducting brings out the best in the choir, highlighting their exceptional vocal prowess and musicality. The album also features the organ skills of Robert Quinney, adding depth and richness to the performances. Recorded in the acoustically stunning Westminster Abbey, the album benefits from the natural reverberation and ambiance of this historic setting, enhancing the overall listening experience.
With a duration of just over an hour, "A Christmas Caroll from Westminster Abbey" is a perfect accompaniment to the holiday season. Whether you're looking to enjoy classic carols or discover new musical treasures, this album offers something for everyone. The meticulous production by David Trendell and engineering by Simon Eadon ensure that every note is captured with clarity and fidelity, making this a standout release in the choral repertoire.
In dulci jubilo (Arr. Pearsall)Anonymous, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
4 Motets pour le temps de Noël, FP 152: I. O magnum mysteriumFrancis Poulenc, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
4 Motets pour le temps de Noël, FP 152: II. Quem vidistis pastores diciteFrancis Poulenc, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
4 Motets pour le temps de Noël, FP 152: III. Videntes stellamFrancis Poulenc, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
4 Motets pour le temps de Noël, FP 152: IV. Hodie Christus natus estFrancis Poulenc, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
A Christmas Caroll, Op. 21Kenneth Leighton, Julian Empett, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell, Robert Quinney
All This TimeWilliam Walton, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
NativityJames Lavino, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Dormi, JesuJohn Rutter, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
The Shepherd's CarolBob Chilcott, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
The Three KingsJonathan Dove, James O'Donnell, Cameron Roberts, Benedict Kearns, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Joys Seven (Arr. Cleobury)Anonymous, Benedict Kearns, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell, Robert Quinney
Stille Nacht (Arr. Bowers-Broadbent)Franz Xaver Gruber, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, James O'Donnell
I Saw Three Ships (Arr. O'Donnell)Anonymous, Nicholas Trapp, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Benedict Kearns, James O'Donnell, Maxim del Mar, Cameron Roberts, William Fairbairn
The Little Road to BethlehemMichael Head, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Ave Rex, Op. 45: I. Ave Rex angelorumWilliam Mathias, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Ave Rex, Op. 45: II. Alleluya, a New Work Is Come on HandWilliam Mathias, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell
Ave Rex, Op. 45: III. There Is No Rose of Such VirtueWilliam Mathias, James O'Donnell, Robert Quinney, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Ave Rex, Op. 45: IV. Sir ChristèmasWilliam Mathias, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey
Ave Rex, Op. 45: V. Ave Rex angelorumWilliam Mathias, The Choir Of Westminster Abbey, Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell