Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of the holiday season with "A Christmas Festival" by The Cambridge Singers. Released on October 1, 2008, under the Collegium label, this captivating choral album spans a generous 73 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of Christmas classics and lesser-known gems.
The Cambridge Singers, renowned for their impeccable harmonies and expressive performances, bring a fresh and vibrant energy to these timeless pieces. The album features a diverse range of compositions, from traditional carols like "O Come All Ye Faithful" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" to contemporary arrangements by celebrated composers such as John Rutter and John Willcocks. Each track is meticulously crafted, showcasing the ensemble's dynamic range and emotional depth.
Highlights include the lively "New Year's Eve" and "I Wonder as I Wander," the soothing "Ave Maria," and the joyous "Rejoice and Be Merry." The album also introduces listeners to international flavors with pieces like "El Noi de la Mare" and "Esta noche," adding a global touch to the festive celebration.
Whether you're a choral music enthusiast or simply looking to enhance your holiday playlist, "A Christmas Festival" promises a delightful auditory experience. The Cambridge Singers' masterful interpretation of these beloved songs makes this album a perfect companion for the festive season and beyond.
2008 Collegium2008 Collegium
Tracks
O Come All Ye Faithful (Arr. D. Willcocks)John Francis Wade, The Cambridge Singers, Farnham Youth Choir, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
Piae cantiones: Gaudate (Arr. J. Rutter & M. Neaum)Anonymous, Farnham Youth Choir, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
The Shepherd's CarolBob Chilcott, John Rutter, The Cambridge Singers
New Year's Eve (Arr. J. Rutter)Traditional, Elin Manahan Thomas, The Cambridge Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
I Wonder as I Wander (Arr. J. Rutter) [1]Traditional, Melanie Marshall, Andrew Williams, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
Ave MariaJohn Rutter, The Cambridge Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day (Arr. J. Rutter)Traditional, Farnham Youth Choir, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
Rejoice and Be MerryJohn Rutter, The Cambridge Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
El Noi de la Mare (Arr. J. Rutter)Traditional, Clara Sanabras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
A Christmas OvertureNigel Hess, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
Born on a New Day (Arr. P. Knight)John David, The Cambridge Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
Magical KingdomJohn Rutter, Farnham Youth Choir, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Mary's Boy Child (Arr. J. Rutter)Jester Hairston, Melanie Marshall, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
Esta noche (Arr. J. Rutter)Traditional, Clara Sanabras, The Cambridge Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
3 Small Tone Poems, RT VI/7: No. 2, Winter Night (Sleigh Ride)Frederick Delius, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy (Arr. J. Rutter)Traditional, Melanie Marshall, Farnham Youth Choir, The Cambridge Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
New YearJohn Rutter, The Cambridge Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
I Wish You ChristmasJohn Rutter, Farnham Youth Choir, The Cambridge Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (After F. Menelssohn) [Arr. D. Willcocks]William Hayman Cummings, Farnham Youth Choir, The Cambridge Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (From "Meet Me in St. Louis") [Arr. J. Rutter]Hugh Martin, Melanie Marshall, John Anderson, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Rutter