Customer Reviews

Sing We Noël: Christmas Music from England and Early America

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

I have had this for years and it is by far the one that is played over and over. The voices and instrumentation are clear and beautifull without ever feeling sentimental. This authentically researched collection would probably suit the eclectic listener who appreciates classical and folk traditions.

I bought the cassette version of this recording in the 1980's and was charmed by it immediately. The recording contains primarily obscure music from the 12th through 20th centuries. The researcher's acumen in recognizing gems among dusty manuscripts is matched by the rich, heartfelt performances presented here. Two unique touches enhance this already enchanting material. First, the recording includes readings about the Annunciation and the Baby Jesus in Middle English from Wycliffe's 14th Century translation of the New Testament. Second, there are two couplings of carols that segue into each other with such sublime grace that they sound as if they were intended by a master composer as part of a single work. Those are "Lullay, Thou Tiny Little Child" (20th Century American) with "The Coventry Carol" (16th Century English) and "While Shepherds Watched" with "Sherburne" (two 18th Century works). Since I acquired the recording in the late 1980's, no Christmas celebration for our family would be complete without it. I also strongly recommend the Waverly Consort's "Christmas Story," told through medieval music, re-released on CD this year, and their Renaissance Christmas recording.

Wonderful medieval music for Christmas. (Even my kids like some of the tracks!).

Highly recommended.

The next to the last track is a lullaby to the Christ child. It may be mislabeled. The liner notes say that a soprano sings it, but it sounds like an alto to me. In any case, it is to die for. Have the tissue ready, for you won't be able to listen to this with dry eyes. The other tracks are also wonderful--not the same traditional songs one hears repeatedly during the season but a welcome, refreshing change. I prefer the Waverly Consort's rendition of the Gloucester Wassail Song, but that does not detract an iota from the quality of the rest of this CD. It's still worth all five stars!

Bought it as vinyl many years and have played it every Christmas ever since. Brings much pleasure every time we play it. Eventually we had to update to an electronic edition. The performances are vivid, joyful, vigorous, and lively.