Immerse yourself in the rich, melodic tapestry of Georgian England's Christmas music with Psalmody's enchanting album, Nativity: Christmas Music from Georgian England. Released on October 1, 2003, under the prestigious Hyperion label, this collection offers a unique blend of traditional carols and lesser-known gems, all meticulously arranged and performed with a sense of reverence and joy.
Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, the album features a diverse range of compositions, from the triumphant "Strike! Seraphs, Strike Your Harps of Gold" to the tender "The Branch, the Mighty Branch Behold." Psalmody's interpretations of classic pieces like "Joy to the World" and "Hark! What Mean Those Holy Voices?" are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the ensemble's ability to breathe new life into familiar tunes while staying true to their historical roots.
The album also includes several arrangements by notable composers such as Samuel Wesley and John Miller, adding depth and variety to the collection. Psalmody's precise harmonies and expressive phrasing bring a sense of warmth and intimacy to each piece, making this album a perfect companion for the holiday season.
Whether you're a seasoned fan of early music or a newcomer looking to explore the rich traditions of Georgian England, Nativity: Christmas Music from Georgian England is a captivating journey through time, offering a fresh perspective on the music that has defined Christmas celebrations for centuries.
Strike! Seraphs, Strike Your Harps of Gold "A New Christmas Piece"John Fawcett, Peter Holman, Psalmody, The Parley of Instruments
Arise and Hail the Sacred Day "A Carol"Joseph Stephenson, Peter Holman, Psalmody
The Branch, the Mighty Branch Behold "Nativity"William Marsh, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments, Psalmody
The People That Walked in Darkness "An Anthem"John Hill, The Parley of Instruments, Psalmody, Peter Holman
Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending (Arr. Miller, Interludes by S. Wesley)Samuel Wesley, Martin Madan, Luke Green, Peter Holman, Psalmody
Ode for Christmas: Angelic Hymns Thy Natal DayBenjamin Cooke, Claire Tomlin, Patrick McCarthy, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments, Timothy Kenworthy-Brown
Variations on Adeste fidelesThomas Adams, Luke Green
Come Celebrate th' Auspicious Morn "A Carol"Joseph Key, Psalmody, The Parley of Instruments, Peter Holman, Philippa Hyde
Hosanna to King David's Son "Hosannah"Richard Taylor, Philippa Hyde, Timothy Kenworthy-Brown, Julian Perkins, Luke Green, Patrick McCarthy, Peter Holman
In Bethlem Fields as Shepherds Kept "Hymn for Christmas Day"Thomas Tremain, Peter Holman, Psalmody, The Parley of Instruments
Light of Those Whose Dreary Dwelling "Christmas Hymn"Anonymous, Julian Perkins, Luke Green, Patrick McCarthy, Peter Holman, Timothy Kenworthy-Brown
How Beauteous Are Their Feet "Zion"William Matthews, Claire Tomlin, Peter Holman, Psalmody, The Parley of Instruments
Joy to the WorldAnonymous, Luke Green, Peter Holman, Psalmody
Hark! What Mean Those Holy Voices?Anonymous, Psalmody, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
Yorkshire "Stockport" (Interludes by Goodwin)Starling Goodwin, John Wainwright, Luke Green, Peter Holman, Psalmody
Angels from the Realms of Glory (Arr. Williams)Stephen Storace, Julian Perkins, Claire Tomlin, Patrick McCarthy, The Parley of Instruments, Philippa Hyde, Peter Holman
Adeste fideles (Arr. Novello)John Francis Wade, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments, Psalmody