"Carols from the Old & New Worlds" by Paul Hillier is a captivating choral journey through the rich tapestry of Christmas music, blending traditional carols with contemporary arrangements. Released in 1994 under the Harmonia Mundi label, this album showcases the exceptional talent of Paul Hillier and his ensemble, Theatre of Voices. The collection spans a diverse range of styles, from medieval and Gregorian chant to minimalism and avant-garde, offering a unique and enchanting listening experience.
Recorded at the renowned Skywalker Sound in Nicasio, California, the album features 24 tracks that span a little over an hour, each meticulously arranged and performed with stunning precision. The repertoire includes beloved carols from various cultures, such as "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," "Still, Still, Still," and "The Cherry Tree Carol," as well as lesser-known gems like "En etsi valtaa, loistoa" and "A New Year's Gift." Hillier's arrangements breathe new life into these timeless pieces, highlighting their beauty and depth.
Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply looking to explore the diverse world of Christmas carols, "Carols from the Old & New Worlds" is a must-listen. Paul Hillier's masterful direction and the exquisite performances by Theatre of Voices make this album a standout in the choral repertoire, perfect for the holiday season and beyond.
2013 harmonia mundi1994 harmonia mundi
Tracks
While Shepherds WatchedDaniel Read, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
The Shepherd's Star (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
A Christmas Carol (Arr. Hillier)Charles Ives, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Joy to the World! (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
The Apple TreeJeremiah Ingalls, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
A Virgin Unspotted (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Away in a MangerJ.S. Warren, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
While Shepherds Watched their Flocks by NightSupply Belcher, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Hark! The Herald Angels sing (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
En etsi valtaa, loistoaJean Sibelius, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Still, O Himmel (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Süßer die Glocken (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Weihnachtslied (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Still, still, still (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Gaudete! Christus est natus (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Personent hodie (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
The Yorkshire Wassail Song (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Green grow'th the hollyHenry VIII, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
Here we Come A-Wassailing (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
The Cherry Tree Carol (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
In the Bleak MidwinterGustav Holst, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
There is no RosePaul Hillier, Theatre Of Voices
A New Year's GiftTraditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
A Wassail, a Wassail Throughout all this Town! (Arr. Hillier)Traditional, Theatre Of Voices, Paul Hillier
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