Immerse yourself in the captivating world of James MacMillan's "Christmas Oratorio," a stunning live recording released on November 4, 2022, by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. This choral masterpiece, spanning 1 hour and 34 minutes, is a testament to MacMillan's extraordinary compositional prowess and the orchestra's virtuosic performance.
The album is a journey through the Christmas story, divided into six parts, each beginning with a Sinfonia, followed by a Chorus, an Aria, and a Tableau. MacMillan's unique blend of traditional and modern elements creates a rich, evocative soundscape that is both familiar and fresh. The powerful choruses, delicate arias, and dramatic tableaux are interspersed with sinfonias that showcase the orchestra's exceptional skill.
From the opening Sinfonia to the final Chorus, MacMillan's "Christmas Oratorio" is a profound exploration of the Christmas narrative, filled with moments of intense drama, tender intimacy, and soaring beauty. This album is not just a collection of songs, but a cohesive, compelling musical journey that will leave you breathless and inspired. Whether you're a longtime fan of choral music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album is a must-listen.
2022 London Philharmonic Orchestra2022 London Philharmonic Orchestra
Tracks
Christmas Oratorio: Sinfonia 1 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Christmas Oratorio: Chorus 1 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir
Christmas Oratorio: Aria 1 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, Lucy Crowe
Christmas Oratorio: Tableau 1 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, Lucy Crowe, Roderick Williams
Christmas Oratorio: Aria 2 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, Roderick Williams
Christmas Oratorio: Chorus 2 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir
Christmas Oratorio: Sinfonia 2 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Christmas Oratorio: Sinfonia 3 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Christmas Oratorio: Chorus 3 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir
Christmas Oratorio: Aria 3 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, Roderick Williams
Christmas Oratorio: Tableau 2 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, Lucy Crowe, Roderick Williams
Christmas Oratorio: Aria 4 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir, Lucy Crowe
Christmas Oratorio: Chorus 4 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Choir
Christmas Oratorio: Sinfonia 4 - LiveJames MacMillan, Sir Mark Elder, London Philharmonic Orchestra
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