Experience the enchanting sounds of the holiday season with "The Christmas Story," a captivating choral album curated and conducted by the renowned Paul Hillier. Released in 2011, this album is a unique blend of traditional carols, medieval chants, and folk songs from across Europe and America, meticulously arranged to tell the timeless story of Christmas.
Featuring the exquisite vocals of Theatre of Voices and Ars Nova Copenhagen, this album spans a rich tapestry of musical styles, from Gregorian chants to minimalist compositions. Paul Hillier's distinctive arrangements breathe new life into classic pieces like "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen" and "In dulci jubilo," while also introducing lesser-known gems such as "Dum deambularet Dominus in Paradisum" and "Voi ch'ai notturni rai."
"The Christmas Story" is a celebration of the season's musical heritage, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tunes and an introduction to new ones. With a duration of just over an hour, this album is perfect for setting the mood during the holiday season, whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home.
The album's 23 tracks, including both a cappella and accompanied pieces, showcase the versatility and skill of the performers. From the serene beauty of "O magnum mysterium" to the lively energy of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," each song is a testament to the enduring power of Christmas music.
Recorded in stunning Super Audio CD (SACD) quality, "The Christmas Story" is a delight for both classical music enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. The album's rich, immersive sound quality brings the music to life, making it a standout addition to any holiday playlist.
2011 harmonia mundi USA2011 harmonia mundi USA
Tracks
Rorate coeli desuperAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Veni veni Emanuel (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Es ist ein Ros entsprungen (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Dum deambularet Dominus in ParadisumTomasi Biasio, Theatre Of Voices, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Adam Lay YboundenHoward Skempton, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
In dulci iubilo (Arr. Pearsall)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Missus est GabrielAlessandro Grandi, Theatre Of Voices, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Puer natus estAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
O magnum mysteriumWilliam Byrd, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Voi ch'ai notturni raiGiovanni Francesco Anerio, Theatre Of Voices, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Dormi, dormi, o bel bambin (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Liebe Hirten (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Andachtsjodler (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
We Three KingsJohn Henry Hopkins, Theatre Of Voices, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Videntes stellamAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Personent hodie (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Herodes iratusAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Vox in RamaAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Uebers GebirgJohannes Eccard, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Maria wallt zum HeiligtumJohannes Eccard, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
The Holly and the Ivy (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Barn Jesus i en krybbe låNiels Gade, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
We Wish You a Merry Christmas (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier