Search - Jakub Jan Ryba, Frantisek Xaver Thuri, Josef Ksica :: Czech Christmas Mass

Great rustic music - but not the best version

09/07/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Ryba's christmas music is not really a mass in any sense - the different sections of a pastorale about a servant waking his master to go to Bethlehem may be named after sections of the Latin mass but the similarity(!) stops there. This unfortunately is not the best version. In 1998 the Czech branch of DG-Archiv recorded a more glossy version with Robert Hugo (and Magdalena Kozena singing three Ryba pastoral-songs in addition). It costs a little more, but includes the Czech texts and translations which are essential to enjoyment, which (unusually for Naxos) this release doesn't. The shorter 'Missa Pastoralis' coupling here is about the same length as the 3 songs on the Kozena disc.There is also a version on Supraphon - but I haven't heard it and don't know if it includes texts or not."

Mass or not, a great choral work

conquistador69 | 10/30/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"What a work, again like nothing ever done
during 18th century or before. A religious
work in the language of its composer, Czech!
of course at that time the second council
of the vatican had not yet been established.
The work follows the ordinary of the mass.The
melodies a very joyful, and sweet, Mr.Ryba must
have had his share of fun writing this work, it is
performed on modern intruments(not early instrument
regretably) but however, it is the best performance
available.The Missa Pastorilis also by Ryba is included
in this disc, receiving its world premiere recording
(first time ever recorded). Both are great works full
of lyric moments and lovely melodies, this is
a great gift for any classical music fan this holiday
season."

Excellent Sonic Experience

J. Heck | Philly, Pa USA | 03/16/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Brought this disc after hearing an excerpt on public radio and was not disappointed. The singing and orchestal sonics are clear and well paced and balanced. It's a beautiful piece of music which seems to become more interesting with frequent playing. Highly recommend this disc for one whose interest is in just hearing pleasant and different piece of music."