SKU: CA.966500
ISBN 9790007167707. Text language: Latin/English.
Interestingly, Ayres combines the Latin text of the hymn with his translation here: in the style of a free motet-like cantus firmus, he interprets the Latin text impressively in music, making use of glissandi, wide leaps and unison twelve-tone linear construction for the dramatic second verse with its deceptive vision of night. He places the motet sections after the translated text, but quite simply with the Gregorian cantus firmus and in the style of medieval organum, however with interesting, diatonically written dissonant sounds. This rewarding piece is challenging, but well worth singing in a concert or church service.
SKU: MN.50-1137
UPC: 688670511370. English.
A lilting choral accompaniment evokes pizzicato sounds surrounding the tenor melody in verse one. The other verses are set more conventionally but still reflect the goals of our Christmas with The Singers series: that the audience will enjoy the famliarity of the carol but be enchanted by the creativity of the arrangement. Challenging, but masterful in how Matthew Culloton treats the ensemble as a self-sufficient choral idiom. Duration 2:30.