Search - Katherine K. Davis, Franz Xaver Gruber, Christmas Traditional :: Christmas Goes Baroque

A different look at Christmas Carols

Presbyteros | 09/10/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"This album attempts in a very clever manner to answer the questions of what if Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi were to compose their versions of some well known and much loved Christmas carols this has been done with the help of Peter Breiner and the CSSRO. Most of the carols respond well to Mr. Breiners arraingements. This is a good disc to put on during a holiday gathering or for tree trimming. There is also a second album with more carols."

Well worth the price, 4 1/2 stars

Presbyteros | Glassboro, NJ USA | 12/12/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is an old favorite of mine. Don't expect so much, and you'll be very happy. Not that it isn't good, and rather better than the other critics think (I'm not quite sure what they're thinking). But it is what it is, clever arrangements in faux baroque style. I especially like "Jingle Bells". European radio orchestras playing in "baroque" style sometimes have intonation problems. They don't really play the style that much, so it's a little unfamiliar, and the tessitura for brass players can be a killer. .This recording is no exception (that is why I don't give it five stars), but I think that adds to its charm. Shell out a few bucks, and enjoy yourself."