Customer Reviews

Jessye Norman - Christmastide

5 star:		(18)
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From the first bars of the CD's first track "O come Emanuel", it is obvious that this is not just another "enjoyable" Christmas CD. Not that this CD isn't enjoyable -- it certainly is. But, it is refreshing to have arrangements that are so sophisticated and well-crafted. And Jessye Norman gives these arrangements the full attention of her vocal gifts and considerable musicality. Her rich, sumptous voice caresses the soul and sends the spirit soaring.

You would be very hard pressed to find a better classical Christmas CD than this one. Jessye Norman's voice, which covers at least 2 octaves, has never sounded better. In O Holy Night, my favourite carol, she sustains a superb piano at "fall on your knees" while hitting the notes cleanly and accurately, and the inevitable later high C at full voice is that much more convincing and effective. Incidentally she sings both verses of this carol in English. The orchestral accompaniment is luminous, particularly in the woodwind solo playing, as is the choral contribution. The Philips digital recording is superbly balanced and wide ranging. A truly heartwarming record in every respect. Strongest recommendation.

It is as if God sent this CD down to make up for all of the secular Santa Claus Singing and Dancing mess. While you are listening to this CD you are transported to the largest chior and voice you can hear. The CD is a great buy and will be a great Christmas CD for years to come.

This is a very moving recording with Jessye Norman . I especially love "This Christmastide". The arrangement with Jessye and the American Boychoir is simply beautiful. This a wonderful CD to have or give to someone else next Christmas.

I am one of those people who will listen to Christmas music any time of year. I simply love it. I have so many famous singers and their "Christmas Albums." Some I like (Tebaldi, Te Kanawa, Leontyne Price), others do little for me, but I love the music just the same. This one I really love. I play it all the time. The choir performes so beautifully, and blends so well with Norman. Each section (it is divided like a symphony, into movements) has a certain "feel" to it, and each charms in its own way. Some old, not often sung, carrols are there (in the bleak mid winter) and shine so wonderfully. This is truly an album of Christmas music that doesn't appear in any way like it was "created for the season to sell records." I actually saw the entire thing on PBS as her Christmas Symphony. Some things in the PBS concert were slightly different, but the essence was the same. It was like we were there sharing Christmas with Jessye Norman, rather than just listening to her sing Christmas songs. This CD gives that very same feeling; we are sharing her love of Christmas with her.

This album is shockingly beautiful. Norman's voice is amazing. The first track alone brings tears to my eyes. This is one of my favourite Christmas albums of all time. If you like Jeysse Norman and you like beautiful, sacred Christmas music, then you should also check out Jeysse Norman At Notra Dame.

I neglected to mention in a previous review that the documentation includes the full texts of every track on this CD, and a cordial invitation from Jessye herself to sing along with her and the choir if one desires. Regardless of how well or (in my case at least) poorly one can sing, this invitation is very hard to resist.

I have had this CD for several years now and it is my absolute favorite of all my holiday CDs. Norman is at the peak of her powers, and the arrangements are innovative yet completely appropriate. I love it so much I've been known to pull it out in the middle of summer. If you only buy one holiday CD make it this one.

A mix of the sublime traditional Christmas music from one of the finest singers in the world. O Holy Night is exquisite, Hark The Herald and Adeste Fideles are superb, and everything else is just wonderful. The perfect Christmas CD for listening to or for background music while opening presents and visiting with friends.

This is one of the most perfectly beautiful recordings of any kind in existence. The pure glory of Jessye's voice is enhanced by the moving, glowing arrangements and thrilling accompanying performances. You will not find a better Christmas album, this is a true work of love and art in the spiritual realm. While it fills your ears with resplendant sound it fills your heart with love and hope.