Experience the enchanting sounds of the holiday season with "The Original Carols from Clare," a captivating collection of 28 traditional Christmas carols, beautifully performed by the Clare College (Cambridge) Singers and Orchestra, conducted by the renowned John Rutter. This 2010 reissue, released on Warner Classics, is a timeless celebration of the festive spirit, featuring both beloved classics and hidden gems.
Spanning a generous 88 minutes, this double album offers a rich tapestry of choral music that showcases the exquisite vocals of the Clare College Singers. From the familiar melodies of "Away in a Manger" and "The Twelve Days of Christmas" to the lesser-known but equally enchanting "Sans Day Carol" and "Gabriel's Message," each track is a testament to the enduring appeal of these seasonal favorites.
John Rutter, a master of choral composition, brings his signature warmth and precision to this collection, ensuring that every note resonates with clarity and depth. The album's diverse repertoire includes carols from various traditions, such as the traditional Moravian arrangement of "Angel Tidings" and the French "Noël nouvelet," providing a global perspective on the Christmas celebration.
Whether you're a longtime fan of John Rutter or a newcomer to his work, "The Original Carols from Clare" promises a delightful and uplifting listening experience. The album's high-quality production and the singers' impeccable performances make it a standout addition to any music collection, perfect for setting the mood during the holiday season or any time of the year.
Shepherd's Pipe Carol.John Rutter, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford
Infant holy, infant lowly.Traditional Polish, Simon Vaughan, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Angel tidings (Traditional Moravian arr. Rutter).Traditional, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Quelle est cette odeur agréable?17th-century French, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Once in royal David's city.Henry John Gauntlett, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Il est né le divin enfantTraditional, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Of the Father's love begottenJohn Rutter, Piae Cantiones, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford
I saw three shipsTraditional English, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Rutter: 8 Christmas Carols: No. 6, Down in Yon ForestJohn Rutter, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford
In dulci jubilo14th-century German, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Nativity carol.John Rutter, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford
Quem pastores laudavere.Traditional, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Rocking Carol (Little Jesus Sweetly Sleep)Traditional Czech, Roger Garland, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter, Orchestra of Clare College, Cambridge, Clare College Singers & Orchestra
The Twelve days of Christmas.Frederic Austin, Traditional, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Here we come a-wassailing.Traditional, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Away in a mangerWilliam J. Kirkpatrick, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
The coming of our KingTraditional, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Noël nouvelet.Traditional, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
The Infant King.Traditional Basque, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Shepherds' Noël.Traditional Catalan, Simon Vaughan, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
O come, O come, Emmanuel13th century, Simon Vaughan, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Past three a'clockTraditional English, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
O little town of Bethlehem - 2010 Remastered VersionTraditional, Simon Vaughan, Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, Orchestra of Clare College, Cambridge, John Rutter
Quittez, pasteursTraditional French, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Gabriel's Message.Traditional Basque, Simon Vaughan, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Sans Day CarolTraditional Cornish, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Stille Nacht (Silent Night)Franz Xaver Gruber, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Flemish CarolTraditional Flemish, Clare College Singers, Clare College Orchestra, Jeremy Blandford, John Rutter
Sir John Rutter, a revered figure in the world of choral music, is an English composer, conductor, and arranger whose works have captivated audiences globally. Born in London in 1945, Rutter's musical journey began at a young age, leading him to study at Clare College, Cambridge, where he honed his skills and first gained recognition as a composer. Known for his distinctive melodic gift and captivating harmonic style, Rutter's compositions span a wide range of genres, from epic choral works like the "Gloria" and "Requiem" to beloved Christmas carols and orchestral pieces.
Rutter founded the renowned Cambridge Singers in 1983, a professional chamber choir that has performed his music to critical acclaim and reached a broad international audience. His prolific career includes over 60 non-Christmas pieces and numerous hymn settings, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of choral music. Rutter's influence extends beyond composition, as he has also made significant contributions as an editor, arranger, and record producer, ensuring his music is accessible and performed to the highest standards.
In addition to his musical achievements, Rutter has been honored with a knighthood, reflecting his enduring impact on the music world. His works continue to inspire and delight, making him one of the most performed living composers today. Whether conducting, composing, or sharing his musical insights, John Rutter's passion and dedication to choral music are evident in every note he creates.
Vinylscout
John Rutter
