Search - Shaw :: Robert Shaw Chorale: Joy to the World

A Classic from the Master

nldmd | Ft. Walton Beach, FL USA | 12/04/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Any student of choral music knows what an enormous impact Robert Shaw had over several decades. This recording is a fine example of his early work, which so impressed Arturo Toscanini. The music on this CD was originally recorded in the late 40's or early 50's. For years it was the only Christmas music our family had...on 78 rpm records. Remember those? We literally played those records to pieces, and were overjoyed when my Dad found the same recordings remastered onto an LP record in 1963. We have since played that one to bits as well. I cried tears of joy when I found this music now on a CD, never to wear out again! I am so grateful that our technology is now saving the priceless recordings and performances of the past. If you love choral music, you will know after hearing this that newer is not always better."

Fifty-five years in print--and counting!

Lee Hartsfeld | Central Ohio, United States | 12/25/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"These magnificent 1945-1946 a cappella performances have remained in print, in one format or another, for more than half a century, and now we have them on compact disc! From 78-rpm records to 45-rpm "EP" boxed sets, from early monaural LPs to "fake" stereo editions on RCA Camden, these recordings have refused to die. Let's hope that they never give up the fight!"Carol of the Bells" is perhaps the most powerful rendition in the set, though choral music lovers are also likely to be spoiled for life by "Patapan," William Billings' "Shepherd's Carol," and the hautingly beautiful version of "I Wonder As I Wander." There is an extraordinary art to these performances and arrangements. In the 1940s, the popular audience had yet to reject everything "serious" in music; therefore, it was possible for musical leaders like Shaw to find a legitimate middle ground. Whatever happened to those days?The sound is better than one might expect, and the price is lower than anyone would imagine. Get this one!"

A great buy

Patrick D. Fleitz | Lakeland, Florida USA | 01/05/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Certainly the sound quality is not up to today's digital standards, but this is an historically significant early recording performed impeccably by one of the greatest choral groups of the recording era. And how can you beat the low price? This cd will definitely be included in future holiday listening."