Search - George Frideric Handel, Johann Sebastian Bach, Gabriel Faure :: Sacred Classics - Messiah, Ave Maria, Pie Jesu, Zadok the Priest, L'enfance du Christ

A wonderful and varied compilation of Sacred Choral Works

imperatorsean | Pueblo, CO United States | 08/13/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a 2 CD set and is one of my favorites. While this CD contains several pieces that the general public probably hears often (Handel's Messiah, Bach's Jesu Bleibet mein freund) it also contains some not well known pieces. Of particular quality is the recording of Gregorio Allegri's MISERE MEI DEUS, a piece composed at the end of the Renaissance era. This piece, lasting roughly 13 minutes, is a master stroke of pure choral music. The piece is repetitive but Allegri builds up to a fantastic ending. Also of note is the glorious recording of Mozart's AVE VERUM CORPUS, Hadyn's DIE SCHOPFUNG, and Brahm's EIN DEUTCHES REQUIEM. A MUST for any choral music fan."

Some traditional religious favorites to bring you holiday ch

Sherri L. Miller | Palm City, FL USA | 08/08/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"During the lifetime of many of the composers included in this compilation, the patrons of classical (historical Western) music were a variety of European states, and/or the Catholic church exclusively, and humankind is fortunate to have these pieces as the result of such limitation on musical composition. This CD offers a nice variety on two disks of twenty-two selections by such greats as Bach, Brahms, Faure', Franck, Handel, Mozart, Verdi, and Vivaldi, with some lesser known cantatas. oratorios, and requiems, along with more well known selections such as Panis Angelicus, the Hallelujah Chorus from The Messiah, Miserere mei Deus, Ave Maria, and much more. A variety of orchestras are included on this CD, including the London Philharmonic and the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, which provide historically correct, lively performances. A great collection for both those new to classical music, and for those for whom it is well known and loved. With so many great pieces offered at a low price, this collection makes a great gift for those for whom it is usually difficult to buy gifts."