Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Christmas with Paul Hillier's "The Christmas Story," a captivating choral album released on September 13, 2011, under the esteemed Harmonia Mundi label. This exquisite collection spans a rich tapestry of genres, including choral, minimalism, medieval, Gregorian chant, and avant-garde, offering a unique and diverse listening experience.
Hillier, renowned for his distinctive approach to choral music, curates a program that seamlessly blends traditional carols with lesser-known gems, all meticulously arranged to highlight the profound beauty of the Christmas narrative. The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Rorate coeli desuper" and closes with a festive rendition of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," arranged by Hillier himself.
Throughout the album, Hillier's arrangements and the performances by his choir shine, bringing a fresh perspective to familiar tunes and introducing listeners to enchanting, lesser-known pieces. The duration of the album is a concise 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it an ideal companion for your holiday season.
"The Christmas Story" is not just a collection of songs; it's a testament to Paul Hillier's artistry and his ability to breathe new life into traditional material. Whether you're a seasoned choral music enthusiast or simply looking to add some holiday cheer to your collection, this album promises a delightful and enriching experience.
2011 harmonia mundi USA2011 harmonia mundi USA
Tracks
Rorate coeli desuperAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Veni veni Emanuel (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Es ist ein Ros entsprungen (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Dum deambularet Dominus in ParadisumTomasi Biasio, Theatre Of Voices, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Adam Lay YboundenHoward Skempton, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
In dulci iubilo (Arr. Pearsall)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Missus est GabrielAlessandro Grandi, Theatre Of Voices, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Puer natus estAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
O magnum mysteriumWilliam Byrd, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Voi ch'ai notturni raiGiovanni Francesco Anerio, Theatre Of Voices, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Dormi, dormi, o bel bambin (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Liebe Hirten (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Andachtsjodler (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
We Three KingsJohn Henry Hopkins, Theatre Of Voices, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Videntes stellamAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Personent hodie (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Herodes iratusAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Vox in RamaAnonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Uebers GebirgJohannes Eccard, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Maria wallt zum HeiligtumJohannes Eccard, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
The Holly and the Ivy (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
Barn Jesus i en krybbe låNiels Gade, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier
We Wish You a Merry Christmas (Arr. Hillier)Anonymous, Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier