Carols For A Victorian Christmas
) | Label: GIFT OF MUSIC Catalog: CCLCDG1292 Format: COMPACT DISC Ives, Bill; Fine Arts Brass Ensemble; Ross, Lesley Echo; Magdalen College Choir, Oxford; Harrogate Choral Society; Koc, Jozik; Souter, MartinThe Victorians established the Christmas celebrations we enjoy today centred around Christmas trees and carol singing after decades of neglect of our major festival. This recording assembles a variety of Christmas songs and music from Victorian England from the sounds of street musicians to drawing room songs, from mechanical instruments and organs to bells and church choirs. This varied selection of music reflects both the pious and robust sides to the Victorian musical style. Vigorous carols such as “God rest you merry, gentlemen” mix with gentle ones such as “Sleep, holy babe,” and the beautiful and famous “See amid the winter’s snow.” Adam’s powerful “Cantique de Noel” contrasts with Liszt’s quiet arrangement of “In Dulci Jubilo.”  Price: $25.98 |