Bring It / Christmas Song

1. Christmas Song

2. Bring It

Editorial Reviews

Product Description:
A benefit CD for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) featuring two new cuts, Christmas Song and Bring It.

Tracks:

Deck The Halls With Broughs Of Holly
Lo, How A Rose E're Blooming
Bring A Torch, Jeanette, Isabella
The First Nowell
Angels We Have Hard On High
We Three Kings Of Oreint Are
O Come, All Ye Faithful
O Sanctissima
O Tannenbaum
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
Good King Weceslas
Silent Night, Holy Night
Joy To the World
The Twelve Days Of Christmas
Conventry Carol
God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
Good Christian Men Rejoice
O Holy Night
What Child Is This?
Wassial Song
O Little Town Of Bethlehem
Away In A Manger
We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Customer Reviews:

Nice music but..........2007-03-08

I liked the music and the performances a lot, but there is no booklet to depict the performers, nor analyse the music or the arrangements, which are superb

Great CD.......2007-02-16

This is a great holiday CD. We used it for several holiday dinners this year.

A Noble and Festive Christmas.......2007-01-21

This is the best Christmas album you could ever get. It is the most stable as you do not have to think about it. This is the album you really sing along to. Brass makes everything festive, grand and noble; so will your Christmas! A gem for every year!

Meat and Potatoes.......2007-01-18

Since the release of this fine recording in 1967 there have been many fine
brass groups:The Canadian Brass, the Empire Brass, just to name a few.
Whereas these latter groups have all resorted to "gimmicks" such as unique arrangements to sell their albums this group of brass players from the Philadelphia Orchestra give us an album of good old "meat and potatoes" playing spiced with fine tone,good ensemble playing, and good tempos.

Totally Awesome.......2007-01-12

I love listening to this cd at christmas. The brass is so crisp, almost like being right there. You have to add this to your holiday collection, and for those of you who like brass, you will love it. I play the french horn and I esp. love hearing the french horn in it.

A Christmas Celebration: Kathleen Battle

Average customer rating:

A Christmas Celebration: Kathleen Battle
One of the most beautiful Christmas albums
A Christmas Collection For The Ages
Kathleen Battle, My Madam Christmas
Pure Joy

A Christmas Celebration: Kathleen Battle
Kathleen Battle , traditional/various , Leonard Slatkin , and Orchestra of St. Luke's with New York Choral Artists & Harlem Boys' Choir
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Noels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Battle, Kathleen | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Opera & Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music

Opera & Vocal | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
Similar Items:

A Carnegie Hall Christmas Concert
Angels' Glory
Jessye Norman - Christmastide
The Best of Kathleen Battle
Kathleen Battle at Carnegie Hall

ASIN: B000002ROL
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

O Come All Ye Faithful
O Holy Night
Bring A Torch, Jeannette Isabelle
Fum, Fum, Fum!
Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming
Ave Maria
Gesu Bambino
Medley: I Saw Three Ships; The First Nowell; The Holly And The Ivy
Away In A Manger
Silent Night
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Mary's Cradle Song
Zither Carol
I Wonder As I Wander
Mary Had A Baby
Rise Up, Shepherd
What Child Is This?
Ave Maria
Finale and Reprise: Veni, Veni, Emmanuel; It Came Upon A Midnight Clear; O Little Town Of Bethlehem; Silent Night; O Come All Ye Faithful

Customer Reviews:

A Christmas Celebration: Kathleen Battle.......2007-01-19

what can i say about the best of the best? As always, Miss Battle makes me wonder how anyone else would dare to sing this music after her rendition. A beautiful CD

One of the most beautiful Christmas albums .......2005-11-22

I love Kathleen Battle's voice, and to get such a great collection of beautiful sacred music, it was like a dream come true. She sings many traditional carols like Holy Night, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night, which is possibly my favorite here, you may think you have heard this song so many times, but Kathleen's voice really shines in it. Her English diction is so incredible, you can understand every word, which is not something many opera singers can achieve. Her singing is always so natural and lovely. Many other songs are oustanding on this album, I love the two version of Ave Maria and the Italian song Gesu Bambino. If you are looking for a really beautiful collection of Christmas music, this album is a great choice.

A Christmas Collection For The Ages.......2005-11-13

If there is one performer I miss hearing on a regular basis, it is Kathleen Battle. Anytime I knew that she'd be in a Metropolitan Opera radio broadcast, I knew it would be a performance to remember and more often than not, I was correct. She has a light voice that reaches the upper reregisters with ease and has as a gorgeous sound. She not a regular at many opera houses these days, and in likelihood, if she still did perform on the world's opera stages, we'd be hearing critics say her voice was not what it once was, but thanks to her recorded legacy, her voice will, always have that youthful, energetic sound.

Overall I believe that Ms. Battle performs better in complete opera recordings than recital albums, but most of her recital recordings are of at least good quality and this Christmas collection is outstanding. She handles all of the works with apparent similar ease, but since the recording is so varied, this is a compliment to her skill as a performer. She begins and ends with "O Come All Ye Faithful" where she does a few vocal acrobatics but it's never overdone. Each time I think of what the bets part of the collection is, my mind changes. She brings her skills from the operatic stage in her renditions of "O Holy Night," "Gesu Bambino" (only Pavarotti sings this better, but it's a very close second), and "The Zither Carol" which sounds so much like something that could come from the mouths of Oscar from UN BALLO or Zurbinetta from ARIADNE AUF NAXOS, two of her signature roles. The music from the African American Spirituals tradition and American background are well done and the accompaniment of the Harlem Boys Choir, used to great advantage here adds so much.

With so many Christmas collections from the world of opera available, choosing one can be difficult, but this is one collection that has proven to be a joy for almost fifteen years and will continue to give holiday pleasure for years to come.

Kathleen Battle, My Madam Christmas.......2004-12-28

I probably have 50 Christmas albums. I love many of them. This is my favorite. Leaves me astounded and breathless every time I enjoy it.

Pure Joy.......2003-12-07

In a world where disturbing things are all too common, Christian scripture guides us to dwell on that which is lovely. Kathleen Battle's blessed voice is most certainly one of those lovely things.

I bought this CD in the early 1990's, and I am here to buy it again because I have worn out the original with scratches, etc. I only listen to it during the Christmas season, but I enjoy it enough to hear it all year.

The 'Christmas Celebration' CD should be enough to convince you to also purchase Kathleen's 'A Carnegie Hall Christmas Concert'. Ms. Battle's wonderful soprano voice is joined by that of the mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade, and the blending is more than memorable. There are a couple of songs which are on both CD's, but you'll want to hear both. In fact, the video of the PBS special is also available, and I recommend buying all three. You won't regret it.

Some of my favorite selections from 'Christmas Celebration' include 'Bring a Torch, Jeannette, Isabelle' and 'Fum, Fum, Fum', both of which are from a culture different from my own. I found such glimpses into unfamiliar favorites to enhance my own enjoyment of the Christmas season, as long as all of my traditional American favorites were included. They were. "I Wonder As I Wander" and "Oh Come, All Ye Faithful" are there among the other favorites.

Tracks:

Music Of The Latin Rite: Ave Maria
Music Of The Latin Rite: Loquebantur variis linguis
Music Of The Latin Rite: Miserere mei
Haec dies
Music Of The Latin Rite: Ave verum corpus
Music Of The Reformation: If Ye Love Me
Music Of The Reformation: Hide Not Thou Thy Face
Music Of The Reformation: Lord, For Thy Tender Mercy's Sake
Music Of The Reformation: O Clap Your Hands
Music Of The Reformation: Bow Thine Ear
Music Of The Reformation: Hosanna To The Son Of David
Music Of The Restoration: Lord, How Long Wilt Thou Be Angry
Music Of The Restoration: Thou Knowest, Lord
Music Of The Restoration: Hear My Prayer, O Lord
The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Beati quorum via
The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: This Joyful Eastertide
The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Sing Lullaby
The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: A Spotless Rose
The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: What Cheer?
The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: O Taste And See
The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: A Hymn To The Virgin
The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Jesus Christ The Apple Tree
The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Faire Is The Heaven
Anthems And Introits: Rejoice In The Lord
Anthems And Introits: Remember Not, Lord, Our Offences
Anthems And Introits: Come, Let's Rejoice
Anthems And Introits: When David Heard
Anthems And Introits: I Sat Down Under His Shadow
Anthems And Introits: These Are They That Follow The Lamb
Latin Motets: Christe Jesu, pastor bone
Latin Motets: O beatum et sacrosanctum diem
Latin Motets: Nunc dimittis
Latin Motets: O vos omnes
Latin Motets: Factum est silentium
Latin Motets: Justorum animae
Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Hail, Gladdening Light
Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: A Hymn To The Mother Of God
Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Hymn For The Dormition Of The Mother Of God
Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: They Are At Rest
Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: A Litany
Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Nolo mortem peccatoris
Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: O nata lux
Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Loving Shepherd Of Thy Sheep
Prayer Settings: The Lord's Prayer
Prayer Settings: In manus tuas
Prayer Settings: Bring Us, O Lord God

Customer Reviews:

My favorite album. English church music at its finest........2005-10-06

Whether you have a couple dozen albums of English choral music or whether you're looking for an introduction to English choral music, this two CD collection is a must. Here you will find a wide selection of sacred favorites, from Gregorian chant to Ralph Vaughan Williams. It's a misnomer to call it "Anglican," since this would exclude (in addition to, of course, the pre-Reformation Latin hymns) the likes of Thomas Tallis and William Byrd -- both Catholics that kept to the ancient faith despite Elizabeth's (albeit relatively mild) persecutions. Tallis and Byrd set the standard in the 16th century for the distinctive "Englishness" (as opposed to Continental European) style of English choral music, with its soaring majesty yet somehow coupled with a subtle and sustained beauty (as opposed to the Continental ups and downs and often tiresome exaggerations). For those of us in the English-speaking world, this is our heritage. Let's treasure it. As for the recording itself, the mixing is superb. While listening, it's quite easy to imagine yourself in the beautiful King's College Chapel or perhaps heaven itself.

The grand tradition of English music.......2005-09-23

Recorded in the Lady Chapel of Ely Cathedral, the Cambridge Singers under the direction of John Rutter produced a duo of discs dedicated to Music of the English Church previously issued as two separate discs, 'Hail, Gladdening Light', and its companion piece, 'Faire is the Heaven'. The discs here are straight copies of those discs; hence, if you have those already, there is no need to purchase this - on the other hand, if you do not have the other discs, this is a bargain.

--Music--
This is all unaccompanied music, sung in a cathedral chapel acoustically suited for such music. The first disc has four primary sections: Music of the Latin Rite; Music of the Reformation; Music of the Restoration; and Anglican Revival and the twentieth century. The most famous composers in English music history -- Tallis, Byrd, Gibbons -- combine with later masters such as Purcell, Stanford, Howells, Walton, Britten and Vaughan Williams to form a truly masterful collection. These are anthems, hymns and other liturgical pieces that have remained important in Anglican worship, and can be often heard in situ on Sundays around the world. However, the Cambridge Singers bring their special music talent to the task, producing a good standard bearer for music of the English Church.

On the second disc, there are six Latin motets, set by composers such as Taverner, Howells, Stanford, Vaughan Williams, Philips and Dering. Anthens and Introits include notables Tomkins and Purcell, and lesser-known composers such as Amner, Bairstow and Goss. Hymns span the range from old to modern, including a hymn by John Rutter himself. The disc ends with three prayer settings, including one by the underappreciated John Sheppard, and another from William Harris, whose hymn serves as the title to the companion disc. These anthems and hymns show a powerful range of music, yet show a consistent tone also that makes it rather distinctive of the music of the English church.

The group's power and grace is second to none, particularly when singing this kind of music in a place such as Ely Cathedral, arguably the most natural of settings possible.

--Liner Notes--
The notes for this recording include the titles and words of each anthem or hymn. The notes for each piece also includes brief biographical information of the composer, and unique information about each work, when particular composers are represented more than once. One thing conspicuously missing is much biographical information about John Rutter, or any descriptive information about the Cambridge Singers apart from the most basic of information.

--John Rutter--
Rutter was born in London and educated at Clare College, Cambridge. This was where his career as a composer, arranger and conductor began. His early work was with groups at King's College Chapel at Cambridge as well as the Bath Choir and Philharmonic Orchestra. He has worked for the BBC providing music for educational series such as 'The Archaeology of the Bible Lands', until in 1979 he began forming the Cambridge Singers, and has continued a remarkable career of performance and recording as their director ever since.

--The Cambridge Singers--
The Cambridge Singers are a mixed choir of voices, many of whom were members of choir of Rutter's college, Clare College, Cambridge. While they specialise in English and Latin liturgical pieces, they have a wide range of recordings that span from modern compositions (including a remarkable requiem by Rutter) to English folk songs of the Middle Ages. Many are former members of the choir of Clare College and other Cambridge collegiate choirs (hence the name, Cambridge Singers). In the quarter-century since the founding, the Cambridge Singers have produced an impressive body of recordings.

music of great beauty.......2005-04-24

Pop one of these CDs into your car stero, turn up the volume and feel yourself drift into a sublime peace. Can music manifest the existence of God?

Excellent Selection, Excellent Performance.......2004-07-28

This two-CD compilation by the Cambridge Singers is truly very good. The repertoire is very diverse and only the best representations of composers and time periods are performed. ALthough most of the pieces were not written with a mixed choir in mind, the Cambridge Singers sing it so well you would not have had any idea. Their performances are careful and exquisite.

Best all-in-one English music CD ever.......2004-04-20

This is a re-release, as one set, of two of my favorite CDs ever: "Faire is the Heaven" and "Hail Gladdening Light" by the Cambridge singers. This is a fabulous compilation of everyone's favorite works from the English Cathedral tradition, all the way from Taverner (16th century) to Tavener (21st century). The selection of works is great and touches all the most important genres. The performance is exquisite, elegant, faultless. The Cambridge Singers have a softer, less edgy sound than the Tallis Scholars, and are more expressive, which may make them easier for some people to listen to, especially for the more recent works. They are no less musical. The Parsons Ave Maria alone brings one to tears. If you want an introduction to English church music, this is the CD to start with. Also makes a great gift, if you already love this music and want to introduce someone else to it.

Average customer rating:

Beautiful Christmas music, relax and sip the eggnog!
background notes
A Classical Christmas Classic
Hark!!!!!
weird but wonderful

Rejoice! A String Quartet Christmas
Arturo Delmoni
Manufacturer: John Marks Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Classical Instrumental | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
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Rejoice! A String Quartet Christmas, Vol. 2
Rejoice: String Quartet Christmas, Vol. 3
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ASIN: B000003Y9D
Release Date: 1995-08-24

Tracks:

Joy To The World
The First Noel
Adeste Fideles
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
O Little Town Of Bethlehem
Silent Night
Angels From Realms Of Glory
Away In A Manger
Gaudeamus
Deck The Halls
Es is ein Ros' entsprungen
Angels We Have Heard On HIgh
Good King Wenceslas
The Goldne Carol
Here We Go A-Wassailing
Bring A Torch, Jeanette Isabella
The Holly And The Ivy
What Child Is This?
God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
Coventry Carol
Veni, veni, Emmanuel
In dulci jubilio
O Sanctissima
We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Amazon.com

There are, unfortunately, only a handful of truly great holiday CDs for lovers of instrumental classical music. Here's one of them. Violinists Arturo Delmoni and Alexander Romanul join violist Katherine Murdock and cellist Nathaniel Rosen on a blissfully sublime disc of holiday favorites. In addition to the usual suspects ("Joy to the World," "It Came upon a Midnight Clear," "Silent Night"), the string quartet throws some lesser-heard gems into the mix: "The Holly and the Ivy," a hauntingly gorgeous interpretation of "Veni, veni, Emmanuel," and the contemporary chorale piece "Gaudeamus," arranged here for string quartet by composer Antony Hopkins. Throughout, the playing is near perfect, with none of the marketing gloss or sentimental gimmicks found in many holiday CDs. Recorded under audiophile standards, the sound is impeccable and warm. A treat. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful Christmas music, relax and sip the eggnog!.......2007-01-10

This is a marvelous group of Boston area musicians who have come together and recorded beautiful arrangements of classic Christmas carols. The blending and intonation of this string ensemble is gorgeous!!

background notes.......2006-11-23

So someone wanted background on the musicians. I can give you some background on the second violinist, Alexander Romanul (you know the one they almost mixed out of this CD). Read it fast before he gets furious with me and tells me to take it down. (Well, I've never actually heard him even raise his voice, but even if he asks me nicely I'll honor his wishes.)

So there's the usual stuff. He was a child prodigy, won the BSO young artists at 13, debuted with some other orchestra at 11 or 12 playing the Mendelsson. Has done lots of solo performances in North America and Europe, played with the BSO a lot of years, yada. yada. A friend of his, who has been concertmaster of a couple New England orchestras once told me, "You understand, don't you, Margaret, that Alexander can really play? It's enough to drive a person completely nuts."

As a young man, he decided to try for the Wieniawski. He locked himself in a room in Germany for 5 months and played scales very slowly without vibrato seeking to play perfectly in tune. He only placed fifth, but the change in him could evidentally be felt and he caused something of a national sensation.

It was then that the process began which he describes as the quest for pure sound, something for which he has sacrificed a great deal. The process has brought him into deep states and he undergoes a constant, tortured struggle to reconcile its lure with the demands of the world. He still sometimes closes himself in a room for long periods of time, coming out only to shower and eat or take an evening stroll.

He claims to have hit a couple home runs in his life, but in my experience, he has never been fully satisfied with anything, so I wouldn't let the fact that he's not satisfied with this CD unsettle you too much. I define a good CD as one which I can listen to four times in a row and then come back to the next day. I think the difference has relatively little to do with the recording quality, the virtuosity, the genre. One can still miss even with technical perfection. It has to do with whether the performers can remain true to the calling and not go up into their heads as a refuge from doubt. I do feel that this music bears on its wings an authentic, "Peace on earth, Goodwill toward men."

Alexander has spent hundreds of hours with my son in tickle fights, swimming in the local reservoir and competing for the best rendition of Disney characters. "Hello, my name is Bruce! I know, why trust a shark?" He reads a lot. Some of his mainstays are Joseph Campbell, Tolkien and Krishnamurti. But at any given moment he might be into an analysis of the stock market or Sir Walter Scott, rammed earth housing, sun spots, Wampanoag Indians or the peculiar behavior of a stray dog in the local police reports. He's articulate and thoughtful and has a sort of zany mischievous sense of humor. He remembers his dreams, likes carnations and Indian food, watches the weather, can identify most of the North American raptors and lepidoptera, plays board games, swims long distances, gets attached to his shirts, makes a mean chocolate chip cookie and drives an old Civic.

A Classical Christmas Classic.......2003-12-11

When the first String Quartet Christmas CD was released a few years ago, it did not immediately catch my attention, until I was stuck in a major traffic jam a few days before Christmas. WCRB, a classical music station in Boston, often plays what they call "classic clusters" of short relaxing classical pieces and one was a holiday cluster with music from this disk. This particular cluster had selections from this CD. Though horns were honking from impatient drivers behind me, I felt relaxed while listening to this soothing music. I later purchased the recording knowing that it would become a favorite part of my Christmas collection.

The concept of this collection is not all that complex. Christmas carols are arranged for string quartet. Most of the arrangements sound like Christmas music of the great classical composers. It makes for wonderful background music for more sophisticated Christmas get together, or a relaxing collection to listen to at the end of a busy day preparing for the holidays. Ideally I imagine a person putting a few logs on the fire, turning down the lights, putting the disc in the player, and simply enjoying the melodious music of the holiday season.

Hark!!!!!.......2002-09-04

Tired of the same old Xmas caroles sung by the same singers I decided to try something a little different. Being a chamber music fan and finding this CD at a book store I purchased it having recognized the name John Marks.This was the best thing I did all year.I listen to this CD all year long. Summer, Spring, Winter and Fall.The artistry of the players is extraordinary as is the sound.5 Stars for each.I did not buy this CD,I invested in it.The dow falls and the music soars.

weird but wonderful.......2002-08-11

One doesn't think about string quartets and Christmas carols, but these folks do--and do a marvelous job of it! If you like "background music" during the Christmas season (let's trim that tree and boil the figgy pudding), this should be part of your collection. Also see the companion CD. Great set. Music well played and artistically arranged in a variety of styles.

Average customer rating:

The Best Ever!
Enchanted by Enchanted Christmas
LIKE ANGELS PLAYING FOR YOU
She Has Another One !!!
This is the best Christmas CD I own.

Enchanted Christmas
Ana Maria Mendieta
Manufacturer: Sugo Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music

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Classical Instrumental | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
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Christmas Classics for Guitar
Joy to the World
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Broadway, Center Stage

ASIN: B0000005Z6
Release Date: 1993-10-27

Tracks:

Angels We Have Heard On High (The Westminster Carol)
Carol Of The Bells (Czechoslavakian Melody)
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Coventry Carol (Ancient English Melody)
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
Concert Variations On 'Adeste Fidelis'
Silent Night (Stille Nicht)
Gesu Bambino (The Infant Jesus)
Ave Maria (Op.52, No.6)
Lo, How A Rose
Canon In D Major
Away In A Manger
Bring A Torch, Jeannette Isabella
A Ceremony Of Carols (Interlude, Op.28)
Amazing Grace

Album Description

Capturing the magic and celebration of the holiday season, Enchanted Christmas highlights the gifted harp arrangements of Anna Maria Mendieta along with her new chamber ensemble featuring strings, woodwinds and beautiful angelic sounscapes.

Customer Reviews:

The Best Ever!.......2003-11-10

I had to send from the UK to the States for this one... Heard it in a shop in NYC while on holiday, fell in love with it but could not get it anywhere! This is beautiful, nostalgic and easy to listen to....I must now buy the other CD about Broadway hits, can't wait!

Enchanted by Enchanted Christmas.......2000-12-04

This album contains some of the most beautiful harp music combined with Stevan Pasero's New Chamber Ensemble that I have ever heard. Ms. Mendieta's mastery of the harp is in this reviewer's thinking probably the best I have ever heard, and I believe harp truly is an angelic instrument. But it's not just her harp playing that makes it so good, it is also the arrangements made possible through the players of the ensemble that bring out her mastery, and make this must listening for the Christmas season, or any other time. One word of caution, however. As it is playing, you must sit down, relax, close your eyes and listen. You'll be rewarded with the most enduring listening pleasure you've ever heard!

LIKE ANGELS PLAYING FOR YOU.......1999-12-06

THIS IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS MUSIC I HAVE EVER HEARD. IT REALLY BRINGS THE TRUE FEELLING OF CHRISTMAS TO YOU, AND REMINDS YOU OF THE REAL REASON FOR CHRISTMAS AND ALL IT'S GLORY. I HAVE THIS CD, AND I AM BUYING 2 MORE! ONE FOR WORK AND ONE FOR MY CAR. YOU WILL NEVER REGRET HAVING THIS MASTERPIECE IN YOUR COLLECTION.

She Has Another One !!!.......1999-03-21

When I was in Caracas, I bought her '96 CD called Broadway Center Stage. It has memorable songs from some of the greatest Broadway musicals of our time. Such as Cats, Sound of Music, Les Miserables (my favorite), West Side Story, Evita, Man of La Mancha, Porgy & Bess, Fiddler on the Roof, Sunset Blvd., Jekyll & Hyde, Phantom of the Opera, and Miss Saigon! This is her BEST collection accompanied by the lush orchestral arrangement of Conni Ellisor, this selection of favorite stage repertoire includes works by Andrew Lloyd Weber, George Gershwin, Claude-Michel Schonberg, Leonard Bernstein and more. Great music! Too bad Amazon does not have this:(

This is the best Christmas CD I own........1999-01-10

I have played this CD over and over again. The harp music is very soothing and inspiring and it sounds good. This CD is a refreshing break from all of the Christmas hustle and bustle; it is like a quiet oasis. I especially enjoy the last song, Amazing Grace. It sums up our reason for the season--God's great love for us by sending his Son to earth to be our Savior. I searched the net to find other CDs by Anna Maria Mendieta but was disappointed to find that it is the only one.

Average customer rating:

Not that amazing.
Are you kidding?
Very nice!
The Holidays Never Sounded So Good!
Very pleased

50 Most Loved Christmas Carols
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Opera & Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
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More Than 50 Most Loved Hymns
The Best Carols in the World...Ever!
O Come All Ye Faithful: Christmas Carols at King's College, Cambridge
Songs of Angels - Christmas Hymns and Carols
Carols from Trinity

ASIN: B000A2H4J8
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

Joy To The World
O Come, All Ye Faithful
O Come, O Come Emmanuel
Deck The Halls
Away In A Manger (American Melody)
The Holly And The Ivy
Good Christian Men Rejoice
God That Madest Earth And Heaven
Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee (Ode To Joy)
What Child Is This (Greensleeves)
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
O Holy Night
Sussex Carol
Here We Come A-Wassailing
Up On The Housetop
I Wonder As I Wander
Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming
Infant Holy, Infany Lowly
Pat-A-Pan
Once In Royal David's City
O Christmas Tree
O Little Town Of Bethlehem
The Twelve Days Of Christmas
Good King Wenceslas
We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Tracks:

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Jingle Bells
The First Noel
Angels We Have Heard On High
Away In A Manger (European Melody)
Silent Night
Angels From The Realms Of Glory
O Sing A Song Of Bethlehem
'Hellelujah' Chorus From The Messiah
Jolly Old Saint Nicholas
We Three Kings
Ave Maria
I Saw Three Ships
I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day
Gloucestershire Wassail
Bring A Torch, Jeanette, Isabella
While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Lights
Sing We Now Of Christmas
In The Bleak Midwinter
Ukranian Bell Carol
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
Coventry Carol
Ding Dong! Merrily On High!
Auld Lang Syne

Tracks:

Jingle Bells
The First Noel
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Up On The Housetop
Ding Dong! Merrily On High
O Little Town Of Bethlehem
Sussex Carol
Jolly Old Saint Nicholas
'Hallelujah' Chorus From The Messiah
O Come All Ye Faithful
What Child Is This
O Holy Night
Away In A Manger
Joy To The World
We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Customer Reviews:

Not that amazing........2007-01-19

I bought this somewhat based on the glowing reviews others had given it. It's not bad, but not that fantastic either. I've heard much better versions of most of the music on it. Not quite worth the price.

Are you kidding?.......2007-01-05

While the musical arrangements are tolerably adequate and the orchestra is fair, this is some of the worst choral singing I've ever heard. They obviously have no concept of tuning and couldn't stay on pitch if their lives depended on it. I can't believe this is supposed to be a professional recording and the director didn't correct these glaring errors. I picked up this CD at an after-Christmas sale at 75% off, and I will forever mourn the loss of my $5.00. I guess it might suffice as a mediocre white elephant gift, but I pity whomever may be forced to listen to it. I suggest you not waste your money. If it's classical Christmas carols you want, search for more well-known and trustworthy music groups like the London Philharmonic and the Cambridge Singers.

Very nice!.......2007-01-02

I have to agree with the other reviewers that this is a very enjoyable CD of traditional carols. It contains a huge selection of songs. I was afraid that they might all sound the same, but to me, the orchestration and vocals are varied and well done. I bought this for Christmas, and it's one of my favorite new Christmas CDs in recent memory.

The Holidays Never Sounded So Good!.......2005-12-17

I loved the "50 Most Loved Piano Classics," so I decided to try another "50 Most Loved" collection, this time the Christmas Carols album. These are classics in their own right as the arrangements and orchestrations are enchantingly beautiful and the choir vocals provide perfect point-counterpoint. I hate to admit this, but I'll probably still be listening to this CD long after Christmas is over. There's a cinematic soundtrack quality that I find haunting. Have a great holiday with this one!

Very pleased.......2005-11-23

This is an excellent value. 3 CD's and 50 songs for under $20.00. If you're looking for traditional Christmas music, this is the collection to buy.

Average customer rating:

Carols of Christmas Past
from Solo Piano Publications
Really Big Shoes
Mystical Christmas Journey
A smooth ride to the holidays with this recording!

Carol: A Christmas Journey

Manufacturer: Really Big Shoes
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Paint the Forest Winter

ASIN: B0000C9ZA8
Release Date: 2003-09-03

Tracks:

A Virgin Most Pure
Coventry Carol: the Holy Innocents
Children's Song of the Nativity
Carol of the Birds
The Wexford Carol
Huron Carol
The Boar's Head Carol
Joyeaux Noel
Bring a Torch Jeanette, Isabella
The Dutch Carol
Ding Dong Merrily on High
Poverty
Silent Night

Customer Reviews:

Carols of Christmas Past.......2003-12-24

If you're tired of Christmas songs after hearing so many of the same ones over and over and are ready for something new here is the solution.
Zola Van's beautiful melodies give the Christmas spirit a new dimension. Carols from past centuries, seemingly lost in time, are brought to the present and surely must sound more beautiful than ever before.
These selectins are calming and soothing to the nerves. Highlights here are "Huron Carol", "The Boar's Head Carol" and "The Dutch Carol". But every song is played with remarkable excellence. For those longing to hear something more familiar, the timeless carol "Silent Night" completes this magnificent set of piano solos.

from Solo Piano Publications.......2003-11-08

When I slipped "Carol: A Christmas Journey" into my CD player, I expected to hear a collection of the usual Christmas pieces and carols with Zola Van's inspired solo piano interpretation. She had told me that this album was going to be different, and different it is! What sets "Carol" apart from other collections is the darkness and moodiness of the album. At first, it seemed almost bleak, but the more I listen, the more I hear the hope and anticipation in the music. Most of the carols are extremely old, going as far back as the twelfth century, and come from various European countries and traditions (one is Indian/Canadian). Van really did her homework on this album, researching the origins of the music as she collected the songs, and writing a short history of each piece in the liner notes. With all of the Christmas music I listen to and teach, I was amazed that I was familiar with only a small number of the carols, and because the collection is so unusual, I would think it would be easy to listen to it year-round without feeling silly about playing a Christmas album in, say, April while you're preparing your taxes!

The three familiar carols are "Coventry Carol," "Bring a Torch Jeanette, Isabella," and "Silent Night," all played lovingly true to the originals, but with fresh interpretations. "A Virgin Most Pure," is a hauntingly beautiful carol that tells of the prophecy and of three journeys to Bethlehem. Van's use of heavy chords in the deep bass of the piano accentuates the mystery and darkness of many of the pieces, this one included. "Children's Song of the Nativity" is a bit lighter, full of innocence and questions about traveling to Bethlehem - how far is it? what will we do when we get there? - a very sweet vignette. My favorite track is probably the darkest one of all, "Huron Carol". The words come from Huron droning, and were set to an Indian/Canadian tune by a Jesuit missionary who taught the Huron and Wendot in a wilderness outpost in Quebec. Van does an exquisite job with this piece - to the point that you can almost feel the chilling winds blowing through it. "The Boar's Head Carol" is a bit lighter and more festive. "The Dutch Carol" comes from about 1599, and is delicate, melancholy,and very beautiful. "Ding Dong Merrily on High" is probably the most upbeat piece - a dance that servants and peasants would perform for their employers' entertainment.

A very unusual collection of holiday music, "Carol" is certainly an antidote for too much Santa Claus. It makes you realize how far back our holiday traditions go, and the vastly different ways in which Christ's birth has been celebrated over the centuries. Historically, this is a fascinating collection - I learned so much from the liner notes. Musically, it is a spiritual and introspective journey to hear these haunting melodies played with such care and emotion. Zola Van has done an outstanding job with this album. Just be aware that this is not a happy-go-lucky album of "Jingle Bells" and "Santa Claus is Coming to Town."

Really Big Shoes.......2003-11-01

What I liked most was the powerful, suspenseful style of play, swirling with emotion, her embellishing style radiating a natural grandeur. I also liked the way her arrangements seemed to get to the heart of these Christmas melodies without being too precious. Her realization seemed to be much more about integrating Christmas into her musical vision than about trying to be a part of the sweet, tinkling chorus we'll be hearing soon enough. And it should be noted that she applied her style to a relatively unusual selection of carols, so there were significant segments where I could enjoy Christmas music without it being something I've heard over and over.

I found her treatments to be both relaxing and moving. And mind you, this--with the stereo on the fritz and my boombox at Lost Pines with my wife on a training mission--was first heard on the tinkly little computer speakers. I soon had to graduate it to the DVD player in the den to get the full surround, but its power is evident whatever the volume or acoustics.

I like this one a lot.

--Richard Banks, Christmasreviews.com

Mystical Christmas Journey.......2003-10-19

"I am a simple traveler. I am transported adrift a gentle, melodic seduction across hundreds of years to this place. Here in a shroud of feudal protection is common man, with reasoning and conduct conforming to his day, desperately seeking beauty, purity, and gentleness in an otherwise brutal world. Beyond dark stone walls of medieval thought, the allure of the beautiful virgin and the child-king's humble birth is the cherished focus of desire and intrigue." ~Zola Van

I first heard Zola Van's radiant music on a CD titled "The HeartAid Project." Her music captures hope, wonder, kindness and beauty. The fluidity of the fragile notes are balanced by the strength and depth of the message. Crisp, delicate and heart-felt notes mingle with images of Christmas memories and dreams.

There are lesser-known carols you might be hearing for the first time and a few beloved favorites that have survived in the hearts and minds of people across the centuries.

1. A Virgin Most Pure - Poignant and delicate rendition of an Old English carol.

2. Coventry Carol: the Holy Innocents - A 16th Century English carol with familiar strains and has grief and love intertwined.

3. Children's Song of the Nativity - A piece filled with questions and expectation. "How far is it to Bethlehem? Not very far. Shall we find the stable room lit by a star?" Zola plays this piece with precision and deep understanding. It is pure and beautiful.

4. Carol of the Birds is from Bas-Quercy, France. The peasants of the time told legends of enchanted animals who could speak on Christmas Eve. I can see birds swooping and soaring and following the "noel star."

5. The Wexford Carol is an Irish Carol known as the "Enniscorthy Carol."

6. Huron Carol is an Indian/Canadian tune - One of my favorites because it almost foretells sadness. Zola shows the full force of her interpretation as she alternates between spectacular lightness of hand and rich intensity. Zola has truly captured a moment in time with exquisite detail.

7. The Boar's Head Carol - A piece to take your breath away. The notes almost seem to be floating through the air like an invigorating breeze.

8. Joyeaux Noel - A French Carol sung at New Year's in the 1400s. Zola captures mystery and magic. You will recognize this sweet dream of new beginnings and hope for the future. This piece might delve into your memory and remind you of your most beautiful Christmas memories. I love how Zola tantalizes the listener with tiny raindrop notes and then just sends a downpour of notes to refresh your spirit.

9. Bring a Torch Jeanette, Isabella - A 15th Century French Provincial Carol with a playful twist. In the depth of night I can see little torches swirling in circles as Jeanette playfully dances instead of hurrying with the torches. There is a touch of humor here. It is as if time stops and this song could play forever.

10. The Dutch Carol - The beauty here is a solitary angel flying high above the earth. In the stillness of the night you can here "How sweet is love." The most comforting carol on this CD. It wraps you in warmth and you almost feel protected from all harm. Zola's playing dissolves all stress, this is a piece you could easily fall asleep to. As beautiful as a lullaby with a depth of caring that speaks of love and sweet dreams.

11. Ding Dong Merrily on High - A lighthearted piece. The emphasis here seems to be a joyous celebration.

12. Poverty - Spectacular depth and understanding. Zola shows her sensitivity in this interpretation. I hear a message so subtle it almost begs not to be explained but only to be felt with the heart. Perhaps this piece mostly evokes a sense of awe. We gaze at the tiny gift sleeping in the straw and are amazed at how a small child could be the hope of the world.

13. Silent Night - Instantly recognizable and a combination of all we love at Christmas Time. Zola plays this carol with an intricate beauty befitting this captivating story of heavenly peace.

Truly, I've never heard a collection of piano solos so delicate in magical beauty. Zola Van's music will quickly capture your heart. The universal messages of hope, peace and love have been captured in her interpretations of each carol. I highly recommend "Carol: A Christmas Journey" for the Holiday Season or anytime when you need a musical escape. It is timeless in its appeal and is a much needed escape from the harried pace of the holiday season or everyday life.

You may also enjoy "Paint the Forest Winter," and "River to River Trail: The Hike."

~TheRebeccaReview.com

A smooth ride to the holidays with this recording!.......2003-10-14

I have had the pleasure and priviledge of listening and reviewing Zola Van's 2 previuos releases. I am proud to say the the third release is just a entertaining as the other 2. Zola Van's talent seems with out limits in this release.

There are 13 tracks, totaling over 50 minutes of some of the best piano music out there today. The complete collection of Christamas music has you listening to all time favorites like Silent Night, which is my personal faovrite on this album.

You have some lesser known releases such as Carol of the Birds and the Wexford Carol. Even though the music is lsated for the holiday season, and it would make a perfect holiday gift, this cd could and should be listened to almost any timeof the year.

Having been given the rare oppurtunity to hear music that not only calms the situation but also relaxes you at the same is one of life simple pleasures. This recording is gentle in sound but large in volume as the music will resonante for more that just the Winter season.

Tracks:

Sleigh Ride
Christmas Fantasy
Away In A Manger
Unto Us A Boy Is Born
Fantasia On Greensleeves
Nativity Scenes
The Christmas Song
Carol Of The Drum
Gesu Bambino
White Christmas
Angels Among Us
Prelude On Veni Emmanuel
A Christmas Fancy On Bring A Torch
Go Tell It On A Mountain (From Rhapsody)
Toccata On God Rest You Merry Gentlemen

It's Christmas Again at Longwood Gardens

Average customer rating:

It's Christmas Again at Longwood Gardens

Manufacturer: Direct-to-Tape
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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A White Christmas at Longwood Gardens

ASIN: B000003JTS
Release Date: 2006-11-07

Tracks:

Bring a Torch, Jeannette Isabella (Keith Chapman)
Fantasia on Greensleeves (R. Vaughan Williams)
Adoration (Felix Borowski)
Good Christian Men, Rejoice (arr. John Rutter/Michael Stairs)
O Holy Night (Adolphe Adam/John Rutter)
Ding Dong! Merrily on High (arr. Michael Stairs)
The Virgin's Slumber Song (Max Reger)
Carol of the Drum (Katherine K. Davis)
Sleigh Ride (Leroy Anderson)
Jesus, Jesus Rest Your Head (arr. John Jacob Niles/Michael Stairs)
I Wonder As I Wander (arr. John Jacob Niles/Michael Stairs)
Two Nols (Nouveau Livre de Nols) (Louis Claude Daquin)
No. 7 Nol en Trio et en Dialogue
No. 12 Nol Suisse, Grand jeu et Duo
Il est ne le divin enfant (arr. John Rutter/Michael Stairs)
I Saw Three Ships (arr. David Willcocks/Michael Stairs)
Silent Night (Franz Gruber, arr. Michael Stairs & Davyd Booth)
Finale (Alleluja) from Concerto Gregoriano (Ottorino Respighi)

Album Description

Music for the Christmas season performed by two superb performers from The Philadelphia Orchestra on the unusual but enjoyable combination of violin and organ.

Average customer rating:

My Favorite Christmas CD
Superb, classical Christmas arrangements
You wont want to get rid of these.

Christmas Celebration

Manufacturer: Music Masters Jazz
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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A Robert Shaw Christmas - Angels on High

ASIN: B000000FQR
Release Date: 1993-08-17

Tracks:

Carol of the Bells
Ave Maria
Angels We Have Heard on High
Ay Ay Galegui
Christmas Concerto: Largo and Vivace
Gaudete (Piae Cantiones 1582)
O Come, All Ye Faithful
Star in the East
Rejoice and Be Merry (Gallery Carol)
Three Settings of "While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks": A. Carol (S.
Tantum Ergo/Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence
In Dulci Jubilo
Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1/Prelude in E-Flat Minor, S. 853
Deck the Hall
Christmas Carol
Wexford Carol
Hoy, JosSe os Da en el Suelo
Adagio
Hosanna to the Son of David
He Is King of Kings
First Noel
Silent Night

Customer Reviews:

My Favorite Christmas CD.......2005-12-01

This is without a doubt my favorite Christmas CD. Unlike traditional Christmas songs sung by "celebrities" - these renditions are timeless and classic.

The transitions from beautiful orchestral arrangements to the pure nakedness of a single voice is the perfect platform for quiet, reflective meditation.

Superb, classical Christmas arrangements.......2001-12-29

This two volume set is incredibly good. I came upon it in Target of all places. It looked like it might be good so I bought it and took it home. I was thrilled! The arrangements are terrific, the performers are top-notch, and what a variety! Everything from brass to voices to strings. One of my volumes mysteriously disappeard (I think my older son had something to do with it!) so I'm having to reorder it. I'm also going to get several as gifts.

You wont want to get rid of these........2001-09-15

I've bought a lot of christmas CD's and these are some that I am most pleased to listen to, any time of the year. The songs are not the same old familiar Christmas songs rearranged, but nice arrangements of a variety of songs done so anyone can appreciate them, especially the classical listener.

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