Britten: Carols

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Ideally, Britten's A Ceremony of Carols should be performed with a choir of boys to fully capture the innocent playfulness of childhood suggested in the music and texts. But, if you want to put that job in the hands of adult female singers, the sopranos of Trinity College Choir should be the ones you choose. What you may lose in "innocence" you gain in mature, polished technique, especially noticeable in the quick turns in "Wolcum Yole," and in performance savvy. This generous 80-minute program, which features sopranos again in the Missa Brevis and the entire Trinity College Choir on Rejoice in the Lamb, A Hymn to the Virgin, Hymn to St. Cecilia, and Sacred and Profane, is a magnificently sung tribute to Britten's choral music. The Missa Brevis is electrifying. --David Vernier

Britten: Carols, Music, Britten, Marlow, Choir of Trinity College, Christmas / Chanukkah, Christmas Music, Classical
Essential Hyperion, Vol. 2
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Nothing but hits
Essential Hyperion, Vol. 2

Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. The Essential Hyperion (Label Highlight Compilation)
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  3. Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet

ASIN: B00004RITB
Release Date: 2001-01-09

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Nothing but hits.......2001-01-31

As with their first collection of label highlights, Hyperion's new two-disc collection provides a broad sampling of their exceptional catalogue and performers. Particularly rewarding are the selections from Beethoven (Scherzo from String Trio in C minor, op 9 no 3, performed by the Leopold Trio) and Thomas Tallis (Salvator mundi I, performed by the Winchester Cathedral Choir), but experienced and novice listeners alike will find much to enjoy on these discs. It's also a good value--more than 2 1/2 hours of music for less than $10.
Cambridge Singers Christmas Album
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Almost angelic
  • Great choir, but mostly recycled material
  • Glittering Chrismas Music
  • The Spirit of Christmas On CD
  • Superb voices!
Cambridge Singers Christmas Album

Manufacturer: Collegium
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. The John Rutter Christmas Album
  2. Christmas Star
  3. Christmas Night: Carols of the Nativity
  4. The Holly and the Ivy: Carols from Clare College
  5. John Rutter Collection

ASIN: B0000DJEOL
Release Date: 2003-10-07

Tracks:

  1. The holly and the ivy (arr. H. Walford Davies)*
  2. Blessed be that maid Mary (arr. David Willcocks)
  3. Somerset Wassail (arr. John Rutter)
  4. Shepherds, in the fields abiding (French, arr. Willcocks)*
  5. The Infant King (Basque, arr. Willcocks)
  6. What is this lovely fragrance? (French, arr. Healey Willan)
  7. Gabriel's message (Basque, arr. Willcocks)*
  8. Still, still, still (German, arr. Rutter)
  9. Quittez, pasteurs (French, arr. Rutter)
  10. Un flambeau, Jeannette, Isabelle (French, arr. Rutter)
  11. Personent hodie (German, arr. Rutter)
  12. The shepherds' farewell (Hector Berlioz)
  13. O holy night (Adolphe Adam)
  14. O magnum mysterium (T. L. de Victoria)
  15. Hodie Christus natus est (J. P. Sweelinck)
  16. For unto us a child is born (G. F. Handel)
  17. In dulci jubilo (Samuel Scheidt)
  18. Lully, lulla, thou little tiny child (Kenneth Leighton)*
  19. A New Year Carol (Benjamin Britten)
  20. Balulalow (Peter Warlock)
  21. I saw a fair maiden (Peter Warlock)
  22. The Lamb (John Tavener)
  23. Fantasia on Christmas Carols (Ralph Vaughan Williams)

Album Description

Christmas Never Sounded So Good!

For more than a decade, John Rutter and the Cambridge Singers have shared the Joy of Christmas with the world. The ethereal sound of perfectly blended voices, singing the most beautiful seasonal music ever composed never fails to touch the heart or lift the spirit. This year, John Rutter and the Cambridge Singers have assembled a NEW collection - compiled from the archives, including FOUR NEVER BEFORE RELEASED TRACKS! This is a holiday feast you will NOT want to miss!

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Almost angelic.......2007-01-18

Choral music by the Cambridge Singers is always top-notch. An older album that might have sounded better with newer technology but no complaints. Has great vocals and orchestral support.

4 out of 5 stars Great choir, but mostly recycled material.......2005-12-16

I have the utmost respect for John Rutter and his Cambridge Singers, probably the best choir in the world (at least, the English-speaking world). I have almost all their CDs. Two of their Christmas CDs are "desert-island" class for this listener.

Unfortunately, I cannot give this otherwise excellent CD the same high marks. If they wanted to release a "best of Cambridge Christmas" CD, this would not be it. It does a few of the absolute best Christmas selections, including Sweelinck's "Hodie", Willcocks's breathtaking arrangement of "The Infant King", and Rutter's own quirky reading of "Personent Hodie". And it does contain a few tracks not previously released.

However, if you want the best of Cambridge and Christmas, start with "Christmas Night", which is always the first CD I pull out the day after Thanksgiving. The sound of the famliar Persall setting of "In Dulci Jubilo" sets my holiday in motion. And that CD also has Rutter's own magical "There is a flower". After that CD, get "Christmas with the Cambridge Singers", which has "The Infant King" and some other treasures.

So, you can't really go wrong with this CD, especially if you just want an introduction to how this fine ensemble addresses the most choir-friendly holiday of all. But if you're serious about getting all the good stuff, start with the other two mentioned above, then add "Christmas Day in the Morning" and the early "Christmas Star".

5 out of 5 stars Glittering Chrismas Music.......2005-11-15

I own virtually all of the CD's of John Rutter (whom I greatly admire) and the Cambridge Singers, and I am a fan of English Choral music in general. If I were asked to recommend only one of the many Cambridge Singers Christmas albums, or indeed one of any English Christmas album, a hard choice, this would be it. As others have noted, this CD is a compilation of songs from previous cds with four new releases. It is, I believe, longer playing than the other Cambridge albums. In style, it is a mostly quiet sounding collection--in fact several carols are sung a cappella-- with pieces ranging from carols such as "The Holly and the Ivy" to the more robust "Fantasia on Christmas Carols". In sum, this is a sensitively arranged and performed collection of beautiful Christmas music.

5 out of 5 stars The Spirit of Christmas On CD.......2005-06-02

I have never been disappointed by any Cambridge Singers release, so it isnt surprising that I thoroughly enjoyed this offering as well. This CD is a compilation of songs from previous cds with one or two new tracks, so check your library to make sure you arent duplicating your collection in the order to complete your collection. I purchased this disk to obtain a copy of the Fantasia On Christmas Carols by Ralph Vaughn Williams which was originally released on Christmas Day In The Morning. As usual, every song is performed in a precise yet heartfelt manner. If you dont own any cds by the Cambridge singers I would personally recommend Christmas Night as the first disk to own, but if you know and love the Cambridge Singers as I do, then you will enjoy having this wonderful addition to your library.

5 out of 5 stars Superb voices!.......2003-12-22

This CD was beautifully sung by the Cambridge Singers, a boys/mens choir, mostly a' capela. It's the first Christmas CD I've bought that really tempts me to crank up the volume so I can revel in every note.
Britten: Choral Works
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • King's College Classic
  • Britten Brilliance
Britten: Choral Works

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by BrittenAll Works by Britten | Britten, Sir Benjamin | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Britten: A Ceremony of Carols
  2. Penderecki: Sacred Choral Works
  3. A Robert Shaw Christmas - Angels on High
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  5. Britten: Ceremony of Carols

ASIN: B0001HAHHS
Release Date: 2004-03-23

Tracks:

  1. I: In A Garden Shady This Holy Lady - Sir David Willcocks
  2. II: I Cannot Grow - Sir David Willcocks
  3. III: O Ear Whose Creatures Cannot Wish To Fail - Sir David Willcocks
  4. I: Procession - Sir David Willcocks
  5. II: Wolcum Yole! - Sir David Willcocks
  6. III: There Is No Rose - Sir David Willcocks
  7. IV: (a) That Yonge Child - Sir David Willcocks
  8. (b) Balulalow - Sir David Willcocks
  9. V: As Dew In Aprille - Sir David Willcocks
  10. VI: This Little Babe - Sir David Willcocks
  11. VII: Interlude (Andante Pastorale) - Sir David Willcocks
  12. VIII: In Freezing Winter Night - Sir David Willcocks
  13. IX: Spring Carol - Sir David Willcocks
  14. X: Deo Gracias! - Sir David Willcocks
  15. XI: Recession - Sir David Willcocks
  16. I: Kyrie - Sir David Willcocks
  17. II: Gloria - Sir David Willcocks
  18. III: Sanctus - Sir David Willcocks
  19. IV: Benedictus - Sir David Willcocks
  20. V: Agnus Dei - Sir David Willcocks
  21. Festival Te Deum Op.32 - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  22. Rejoice In God, O Ye Tongues - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  23. For I Will Consider My Cat Jeoffrey - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  24. For The Mouse Is A Creature Of Great Personal Valour - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  25. For The Flowers Are Great Blessings - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  26. For I Am Under The Same Accusation With My Saviour - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  27. For H Is A Spirit And Therefore He Is God - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  28. Hallelujah From The Heart Of God - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  29. Te Deum In C - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  30. Jubilate Deo - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars King's College Classic.......2004-10-11

Way back in the dark ages, before CDs roamed the earth, I purchased the LP of this recording. It remains my favorite performance of Britten's work. The voices of the choir, accompanied by one harp, weave an achingly beautiful tapestry of sound. It is a wonderful way to introduce children and friends to the English choral tradition of sacred music.

5 out of 5 stars Britten Brilliance.......2004-09-28

Captivating from start to finish: EMI has programmed & remastered this bounty of Britten choral work superbly. The Choir of King's College, Cambridge performs with stunning sensitivity, ethereal, heartbreaking & transcendent. A just classic disc
Britten: Ceremony of Carols
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • A Bountiful Gift of Britten's Choral Works
Britten: Ceremony of Carols
Choir of Christ Church Cathedral Oxford , and Grier
Manufacturer: Asv Living Era
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. The John Rutter Christmas Album
  2. Hildegard von Bingen: Canticles of Ecstasy

ASIN: B0000CEONG
Release Date: 2004-10-05

Tracks:

  1. Procession
  2. Wolcum Yole!
  3. There Is No Rose
  4. That Younge Child
  5. Balulalow
  6. As Dew In Aprille
  7. This Little Babe
  8. Interlude (Harp Solo)
  9. In Freezing Winter Night
  10. Spring Carol
  11. Adam Lay I-Bounden
  12. Recession
  13. Te Deum In C
  14. Hymn To St Peter, Op. 56A
  15. Hymn To The Virgin
  16. Hymn To St Cecilia, Op. 27

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A Bountiful Gift of Britten's Choral Works.......2006-11-14

Grateful we should be to ASV Living Era label for re-releasing this 1982 recording of what must be the finest performance of Benjamin Britten's A CEREMONY OF CAROLS on record. As performed by the Choir of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford under the direction of Francis Grier this delicate, otherworldly and penultimately Christmas work is sung by boys with the fine harp accompaniment by Frances Kelly. The ambience of the cathedral is captured in great beauty and the work, a model of simplicity and innocent devotion, is sung with exquisite sound and enunciation. The solos are by Edward Harris, Mark Slater, and Andrew Olleson and remind us of why this work was written for children's voices and not the women's choruses who try to imitate the beauty of prepuberal sound!

Included on this CD are Britten's rarely heard but very evocative TE DEUM in C major, HYMN TO ST. PETER, HYMN TO THE VIRGIN, and the ever-popular HYMN TO ST. CECILIA. The Organ accompaniment is in the capable hands (and feet) of Harry Bickett. Each of the works on the recording is superb and as a collection they are unbeatable, especially at the extremely low cost!

As the holidays approach there can be no more subtle way to greet them than with this recording of A CEREMONY OF CAROLS, breaking the usual routine of music that abounds. Highly recommended. Grady Harp, November 06
Treasures of English Church Music
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • My favorite album. English church music at its finest.
  • The grand tradition of English music
  • music of great beauty
  • Excellent Selection, Excellent Performance
  • Best all-in-one English music CD ever
Treasures of English Church Music

Manufacturer: Collegium
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. The Music of St. Paul's Cathedral
  2. A Vaughan Williams Hymnal
  3. Praise to the Lord - Hymns From St. Paul's Cathedral
  4. Abide With Me
  5. The Psalms of David from Kings Choir of Kings College, Cambridge, Vol. 1

ASIN: B0000031I6
Release Date: 1995-12-12

Tracks:

  1. Music Of The Latin Rite: Ave Maria
  2. Music Of The Latin Rite: Loquebantur variis linguis
  3. Music Of The Latin Rite: Miserere mei
  4. Haec dies
  5. Music Of The Latin Rite: Ave verum corpus
  6. Music Of The Reformation: If Ye Love Me
  7. Music Of The Reformation: Hide Not Thou Thy Face
  8. Music Of The Reformation: Lord, For Thy Tender Mercy's Sake
  9. Music Of The Reformation: O Clap Your Hands
  10. Music Of The Reformation: Bow Thine Ear
  11. Music Of The Reformation: Hosanna To The Son Of David
  12. Music Of The Restoration: Lord, How Long Wilt Thou Be Angry
  13. Music Of The Restoration: Thou Knowest, Lord
  14. Music Of The Restoration: Hear My Prayer, O Lord
  15. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Beati quorum via
  16. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: This Joyful Eastertide
  17. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Sing Lullaby
  18. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: A Spotless Rose
  19. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: What Cheer?
  20. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: O Taste And See
  21. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: A Hymn To The Virgin
  22. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Jesus Christ The Apple Tree
  23. The Anglican Revival And The Twentieth Century: Faire Is The Heaven
  24. Anthems And Introits: Rejoice In The Lord
  25. Anthems And Introits: Remember Not, Lord, Our Offences
  26. Anthems And Introits: Come, Let's Rejoice
  27. Anthems And Introits: When David Heard
  28. Anthems And Introits: I Sat Down Under His Shadow
  29. Anthems And Introits: These Are They That Follow The Lamb
  30. Latin Motets: Christe Jesu, pastor bone
  31. Latin Motets: O beatum et sacrosanctum diem
  32. Latin Motets: Nunc dimittis
  33. Latin Motets: O vos omnes
  34. Latin Motets: Factum est silentium
  35. Latin Motets: Justorum animae
  36. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Hail, Gladdening Light
  37. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: A Hymn To The Mother Of God
  38. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Hymn For The Dormition Of The Mother Of God
  39. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: They Are At Rest
  40. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: A Litany
  41. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Nolo mortem peccatoris
  42. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: O nata lux
  43. Settings Of Hymns And Other Poetry: Loving Shepherd Of Thy Sheep
  44. Prayer Settings: The Lord's Prayer
  45. Prayer Settings: In manus tuas
  46. Prayer Settings: Bring Us, O Lord God

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars My favorite album. English church music at its finest........2005-10-06

Whether you have a couple dozen albums of English choral music or whether you're looking for an introduction to English choral music, this two CD collection is a must. Here you will find a wide selection of sacred favorites, from Gregorian chant to Ralph Vaughan Williams. It's a misnomer to call it "Anglican," since this would exclude (in addition to, of course, the pre-Reformation Latin hymns) the likes of Thomas Tallis and William Byrd -- both Catholics that kept to the ancient faith despite Elizabeth's (albeit relatively mild) persecutions. Tallis and Byrd set the standard in the 16th century for the distinctive "Englishness" (as opposed to Continental European) style of English choral music, with its soaring majesty yet somehow coupled with a subtle and sustained beauty (as opposed to the Continental ups and downs and often tiresome exaggerations). For those of us in the English-speaking world, this is our heritage. Let's treasure it. As for the recording itself, the mixing is superb. While listening, it's quite easy to imagine yourself in the beautiful King's College Chapel or perhaps heaven itself.

5 out of 5 stars The grand tradition of English music.......2005-09-23

Recorded in the Lady Chapel of Ely Cathedral, the Cambridge Singers under the direction of John Rutter produced a duo of discs dedicated to Music of the English Church previously issued as two separate discs, 'Hail, Gladdening Light', and its companion piece, 'Faire is the Heaven'. The discs here are straight copies of those discs; hence, if you have those already, there is no need to purchase this - on the other hand, if you do not have the other discs, this is a bargain.

--Music--
This is all unaccompanied music, sung in a cathedral chapel acoustically suited for such music. The first disc has four primary sections: Music of the Latin Rite; Music of the Reformation; Music of the Restoration; and Anglican Revival and the twentieth century. The most famous composers in English music history -- Tallis, Byrd, Gibbons -- combine with later masters such as Purcell, Stanford, Howells, Walton, Britten and Vaughan Williams to form a truly masterful collection. These are anthems, hymns and other liturgical pieces that have remained important in Anglican worship, and can be often heard in situ on Sundays around the world. However, the Cambridge Singers bring their special music talent to the task, producing a good standard bearer for music of the English Church.

On the second disc, there are six Latin motets, set by composers such as Taverner, Howells, Stanford, Vaughan Williams, Philips and Dering. Anthens and Introits include notables Tomkins and Purcell, and lesser-known composers such as Amner, Bairstow and Goss. Hymns span the range from old to modern, including a hymn by John Rutter himself. The disc ends with three prayer settings, including one by the underappreciated John Sheppard, and another from William Harris, whose hymn serves as the title to the companion disc. These anthems and hymns show a powerful range of music, yet show a consistent tone also that makes it rather distinctive of the music of the English church.

The group's power and grace is second to none, particularly when singing this kind of music in a place such as Ely Cathedral, arguably the most natural of settings possible.

--Liner Notes--
The notes for this recording include the titles and words of each anthem or hymn. The notes for each piece also includes brief biographical information of the composer, and unique information about each work, when particular composers are represented more than once. One thing conspicuously missing is much biographical information about John Rutter, or any descriptive information about the Cambridge Singers apart from the most basic of information.

--John Rutter--
Rutter was born in London and educated at Clare College, Cambridge. This was where his career as a composer, arranger and conductor began. His early work was with groups at King's College Chapel at Cambridge as well as the Bath Choir and Philharmonic Orchestra. He has worked for the BBC providing music for educational series such as 'The Archaeology of the Bible Lands', until in 1979 he began forming the Cambridge Singers, and has continued a remarkable career of performance and recording as their director ever since.

--The Cambridge Singers--
The Cambridge Singers are a mixed choir of voices, many of whom were members of choir of Rutter's college, Clare College, Cambridge. While they specialise in English and Latin liturgical pieces, they have a wide range of recordings that span from modern compositions (including a remarkable requiem by Rutter) to English folk songs of the Middle Ages. Many are former members of the choir of Clare College and other Cambridge collegiate choirs (hence the name, Cambridge Singers). In the quarter-century since the founding, the Cambridge Singers have produced an impressive body of recordings.

5 out of 5 stars music of great beauty.......2005-04-24

Pop one of these CDs into your car stero, turn up the volume and feel yourself drift into a sublime peace. Can music manifest the existence of God?

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Selection, Excellent Performance.......2004-07-28

This two-CD compilation by the Cambridge Singers is truly very good. The repertoire is very diverse and only the best representations of composers and time periods are performed. ALthough most of the pieces were not written with a mixed choir in mind, the Cambridge Singers sing it so well you would not have had any idea. Their performances are careful and exquisite.

5 out of 5 stars Best all-in-one English music CD ever.......2004-04-20

This is a re-release, as one set, of two of my favorite CDs ever: "Faire is the Heaven" and "Hail Gladdening Light" by the Cambridge singers. This is a fabulous compilation of everyone's favorite works from the English Cathedral tradition, all the way from Taverner (16th century) to Tavener (21st century). The selection of works is great and touches all the most important genres. The performance is exquisite, elegant, faultless. The Cambridge Singers have a softer, less edgy sound than the Tallis Scholars, and are more expressive, which may make them easier for some people to listen to, especially for the more recent works. They are no less musical. The Parsons Ave Maria alone brings one to tears. If you want an introduction to English church music, this is the CD to start with. Also makes a great gift, if you already love this music and want to introduce someone else to it.
Britten: A Ceremony of Carols
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Buy This One
  • Better than Vienna Boys' Choir; essential for any Christmas or classical collection
  • The best version of this piece!
Britten: A Ceremony of Carols

Manufacturer: Hyperion
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Britten: Choral Works
  2. Hodie / Fantasia on Christmas Carols
  3. The Holly and the Ivy: Carols from Clare College
  4. The John Rutter Christmas Album
  5. A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

ASIN: B000002ZJC
Release Date: 1993-11-12

Tracks:

  1. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: Procession
  2. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: Wolcum Yole!
  3. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: There Is No Rose
  4. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: That Yonge Child - Robert Ogden
  5. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: Balulalow - Jeremy Unwin
  6. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: As Dew In Aprille
  7. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: This Little Babe
  8. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: Interlude - Sioned Williams
  9. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: In Freezing Winter Night - Jeremy Unwin/Francis Shepherd
  10. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: Spring Carol - Marc Stevens/Robert Ogden
  11. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: Adam Lay I-Bounden
  12. A Ceremony Of Carols, Op.28: Recession
  13. Missa Brevis in D, Op.63: Kyrie
  14. Missa Brevis in D, Op.63: Gloria - Benedict Rogerson/Robert Holmes/Robert Ogden
  15. Missa Brevis in D, Op.63: Sanctus And Benedictus - Marc Stevens/Robert Holmes
  16. Missa Brevis in D, Op.63: Agnus Dei
  17. A Hymn To The Virgin - Francis Shepherd/Robert Jones/Simon Davies
  18. A Hymn Of St. Columba (Regis Regum Rectissimi) - Gordon Jones
  19. Deus In Adjutorium Meum...
  20. Jubilate Deo in E flat

Amazon.com essential recording

Of the many accounts of Britten's Ceremony of Carols in the catalog, this one is the best. This was the first work Britten wrote for boys' voices, and with his keen ear and extraordinary imagination, he achieved many wondrous and memorable effects. At the heart of this 1986 performance are the boys of the Westminster Cathedral Choir, obviously a well-trained group. With their outstanding intonation and hearty sound, these London boys outclass all the competition. Their singing is free and expressive, yet very disciplined, even in the triple canon of "This Little Babe," which has a way of bringing all but the most skillful groups to grief. The playing of harpist Sioned Williams is especially accomplished--she delivers a superb realization of the solo interlude based on "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"--and David Hill's direction is right on the mark. The recording, made in Westminster Cathedral, is spacious and extremely appealing, right down to the comings-and-goings of the procession and recession, both of which work beautifully. A fine sampling of Britten's other choral music, including the beautiful Missa Brevis in D, rounds out the disc. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Buy This One.......2006-12-18

I just purchased this CD, and the performance of Ceremony of Carols is absolutely ravishing.

5 out of 5 stars Better than Vienna Boys' Choir; essential for any Christmas or classical collection.......2006-01-03

I have to agree with other reviewers that this is the best version of "A Ceremony of Carols" available. The piercing purity of the treble solo voice on "Balulalow" brings tears to my eyes nearly every time I listen to it, and the quality of the rest of the album matches that performance.

These are exceedingly well-trained children; I often get a little concerned when a choir approaches "This Little Babe," but this choir tosses off the difficult challenge with an ease that lets me forget the notes and instead be shaken by the poetry of young boys singing a fierce war-cry about the hero Christ-child who, in his naked, infinitely vulnerable infancy, is humanity's shield against all hell.

This is not "pretty" music - yes, it's just boys and a harp - but it's powerful, lulling, agressive, disarming. I can't stop talking about this recording to my friends and family.

5 out of 5 stars The best version of this piece!.......2000-09-23

This is the best version of the Ceremony of Carols available. It is sung completely by trebles and is accompanied only by harp, which is how it was written. Trebles = boys. I thought it was out of print and I am very happy to see that it is not. The only problem with this version is that it is very quiet, and needs to be turned up to double the usual volume, but it isn't a major problem. In case you're not familiar with this piece, it is a very beautiful set of carols written in old English (even though it was written in the 20th century). The songs are very complex, especially my favorite "This Little Babe" which has 3 sections of the choir singing the same lyrics a beat apart... very difficult, and very exciting. There is also the beautifully dissident "That Yonge Child", and practically everyone's favorite "Balulalow". The harp interlude is also very popular. I highly recommend this CD.
Wolcum Yule: Celtic and British Songs and Carols - Anonymous 4 with Andrew Lawrence-King
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Wolcum Yule
  • lovely and unusual Yule album
  • Goose Flesh!
Wolcum Yule: Celtic and British Songs and Carols - Anonymous 4 with Andrew Lawrence-King
John Tavener , Richard Rodney Bennett , Peter Maxwell Davies , Geoffrey Burgon , Henry VIII , Benjamin Britten , Anonymous 4 , and Andrew Lawrence-King
Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. American Angels
  2. On Yoolis Night: Medieval Carols & Motets - Anonymous 4
  3. Gloryland
  4. Legends of St. Nicholas: Medieval Chant & Polyphony
  5. The Origin of Fire: Music and Visions of Hildegard von Bingen

ASIN: B0000AZKK4
Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

  1. Awake, And Join The Cheerful Choir
  2. Good People All
  3. The Seven Rejoices Of Mary
  4. The Lamb
  5. A Scots Lilt
  6. Balulalow
  7. Balulalow
  8. The Holly And The Ivy
  9. The Reel Of Tullochgorum
  10. I Saw Three Ships
  11. A Calendar Of Kings
  12. Air: La Fuar Geimhreadh
  13. An Teicheadh Go Heigipt
  14. A God, And Yet A Man?
  15. Grene Growith The Holy
  16. Wel, Dyma'r Borau Gorau
  17. The Cherry Tree Carol
  18. Can Wassel
  19. A New Year Carol

Amazon.com

This offbeat disc of seasonal songs and carols by the Anonymous 4 will delight their fans and please everyone else. The 19 selections include traditional folk melodies and texts, some of which date back to the Middle Ages, interspersed with fitting selections by contemporary composers including John Taverner, Benjamin Britten, and Peter Maxwell Davies, whose ethereal a cappella A Calender of Kings gets its first recording. Andrew Lawrence-King, playing Irish harp, Baroque harp, and psaltery with his accustomed finesse, is a major reason for the disc's success, accompanying most of the vocals and contributing three lovely solos. The disc is crammed with highlight tracks, like the lilting Cornish Wassail song and the Irish Good people all, and haunting numbers like "Flight into Egypt," sung in Gaelic, and "Behold, here is the best morning," sung in Welsh. Excellent sonics and Harmonia Mundi's typically fine production values also help make this a Christmas disc that will give joy in July. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Wolcum Yule.......2006-01-17

The recording is fine . . . it just didn't appeal to me personally

5 out of 5 stars lovely and unusual Yule album.......2004-01-06

Anonymous 4 has brought us a beautiful selection of 19 traditional songs from England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. These include a lesser known work by Henry VIII as well as more contemporary songs by John Tavener, Richard Bennett, Geoffrey Burgon and Benjamin Britten, and a piece commissioned for the group from Peter Davies. Andrew Lawrence-King accompanies on Irish harp, Baroque harp and psaltery. There is a short essay on the traditions and legacy of the concept of Yule, a Cetic midwinter celebration, and this and the informative liner notes are given in English, French and German, accompanied by Celtic drawings.

The songs are pure, simple and very beautiful -- a welcome addition to your holiday listening.

5 out of 5 stars Goose Flesh!.......2003-12-09

This is a remarkable quartet, singing with purity and style, from the haunting to the merry, medieval chant to modern settings of Celtic religious texts. Where there are arrangements, they are lovely and the instrumental pieces are simple and beautiful. This is the first time I have heard this group of women, and I am enchanted. It's a cappella at its very best: look to your laurels, King's Singers and Chanticleer, here come the ladies!
A Robert Shaw Christmas - Angels on High
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Beautiful
  • Robert Shaw Chorale
  • a perfect Ceremony of Carols!
  • Brilliant compilation
  • Didn't care for it that much
A Robert Shaw Christmas - Angels on High

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Songs of Angels - Christmas Hymns and Carols
  2. A Festival Of Carols / Robert Shaw Chorale
  3. The Many Moods of Christmas (1963 RCA Victor Version) Robert Shaw Chorale and Orchestra
  4. Carols from Trinity
  5. O Come All Ye Faithful: Christmas Carols at King's College, Cambridge

ASIN: B000003D2M
Release Date: 1997-09-23

Tracks:

  1. O Come, Emmanuel
  2. Alleluia
  3. The First Nowell
  4. The Carol Of The Birds
  5. Allon, Gay Bergeres
  6. A Hymn To The Virgin
  7. O Magnum Mysterium
  8. Christmas Oratorio: Rejoice And Sing
  9. Ave Maria
  10. What Is This Lovely Fragrance?
  11. Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming
  12. Sing Lullaby
  13. While By My Sheep
  14. Christmas Oratorio: Break Forth, O Wondrous Heavenly Light
  15. Heavenly Light
  16. Adeste Fideles
  17. Ceremony Of Carols: Procession - Hodie Christus Natus Est
  18. Ceremony Of Carols: Wolcum Yole!
  19. Ceremony Of Carols: There Is No Rose
  20. Ceremony Of Carols: That Yonge Child
  21. Ceremony Of Carols: Balulalow
  22. Ceremony Of Carols: As Dew In Aprille
  23. Ceremony Of Carols: This Little Babe
  24. Interlude (Harp Solo)
  25. Ceremony Of Carols: In Freezing Winter Night
  26. Ceremony Of Carols: Spring Carol
  27. Ceremony Of Carols: Deo Gracias
  28. Ceremony Of Carols: Recession: Hodie Christus Natus Est

Amazon.com

In this beautifully chosen program of mostly a cappella arrangements, Robert Shaw and the Robert Shaw Chamber Singers deliver the Christmas story in tones of gentle and moving splendor. The carols and sacred settings recorded here are all of an intimate sort, and the rapturous, gently expressive realizations Shaw and his singers give them prove unfailingly appealing. Particularly moving is the newest work on the disc, a setting of "O magnum mysterium" by the American composer Morten Lauridsen. Franz Biebl's "Ave Maria" is another gem, as is the arrangement by Healy Willan of the French carol "What Is This Lovely Fragrance?" The offering includes a pair of chorales from Bach's Christmas Oratorio and two wonderful Christmas works by Benjamin Britten: "A Hymn to the Virgin" and A Ceremony of Carols, both well done, even if the sound of sopranos and altos (rather than boy trebles) in the latter takes some getting used to. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Beautiful.......2007-02-16

The music is beautiful of course. The Robert Shaw Chorale is a high quality group of singers, and the arrangements they sing are really nice. Because of the age of the recording today's standards of equpment and tonal quality simply weren't available but the upgrade from analog vinyl was well-done. I shall look for more of these.

5 out of 5 stars Robert Shaw Chorale.......2007-01-10

This is an excellent ablum. The music is lovely and quite varied. While there are many of the familiar favorites, there are also many new and different songs and the whole CD is a delight to listen to.

5 out of 5 stars a perfect Ceremony of Carols!.......2005-12-22

This is the finest recording of Britten's A Ceremony of Carols I've ever come across, and there are plenty of versions to choose from. The King's College Choir rendition suffers from overstuffed acoustics, a constant with that choir, and their recording of Ceremony of Carols falls short in the requisite rhythmic clarity and intensity. The Christ Church, Oxford version is plodding, and lacks sparkle. Harry Christopher's The Sixteen come close, with marvelous sonics and ecstatic diction, but fall apart in the exacting 'This Little Babe' round with uneven cohesion, and strange stressed notes that ruin the waterfall effect so felicitously construed by Britten. I've not heard Britten's own conducted version, but he scrupulously insisted on boy trebles, and it's difficult if not impossible to conjure a more perfect rendering than the one given here by Shaw and his Chamber Singers. 'This Little Babe' is incomparable in each and all of its rapid fire contours, which is no mean feat. Mezzo-soprano Nanette Soles deserves special mention for incandescent singing on 'That Younge Child". The luminous pacing of 'There is no rose of such virtue' is notable, and to his credit Shaw employs the ecclesiastical pronunciation of the various Latin passages, unlike The Sixteen (and most other English choir recordings of this piece) who insist on an idiomatic British pronunciation of Latin, which offers nothing but distraction. Some will prefer boy treble singers, an attractive option, but for high musical values and the art they inevitably enshrine, it's impossible to be disappointed with this profoundly wrought version of Ceremony of Carols. Bach's 'Break Forth, O beauteous heavenly light' is just right, and I'd not heard 'Heavenly Light' by Aleksandr Kopylov; both are favorable additions to an excellent recording. Recommended.

5 out of 5 stars Brilliant compilation.......2005-03-16

This is an absolutely outstanding collection of carols - some of them well-known, some of them obscure. As a choral singer, I've had the pleasure of singing many of these pieces, and I was delighted when I found them all in one place, and done by an ensemble so accomplished as the Robert Shaw Chamber Singers! It just isn't Christmas for me without this recording.

2 out of 5 stars Didn't care for it that much.......2004-12-27

I prefer to hear the voices and the words of the carols, and this one has too much other sound (maybe even the use of massed voices); I have a hard time hearing what they are singing.
Faire is the Heaven: Music of the English Church
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The best!!!!!!!!!!
  • Far more than faire...
  • "Treasures of English Church Music": same music, better buy
  • Beautiful
  • John Rutter Presents English Chruch Music Through the Ages
Faire is the Heaven: Music of the English Church

Manufacturer: Collegium
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by BrittenAll Works by Britten | Britten, Sir Benjamin | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Byrd, WilliamByrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Gibbons, OrlandoGibbons, Orlando | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Howells, HerbertHowells, Herbert | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Purcell, HenryPurcell, Henry | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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All Works by WaltonAll Works by Walton | Walton, Sir William | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Purcell, Henry | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Vaughan Williams, Ralph | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
Lullabies & BerceuseLullabies & Berceuse | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
AnthemsAnthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ChorusesChoruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
HymnsHymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MotetsMotets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
PartsongsPartsongs | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
PsalmsPsalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
A CappellaA Cappella | Folk | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Hail, Gladdening Light: Music of the English Church
  2. Stillness And Sweet Harmony
  3. Brother Sun, Sister Moon
  4. Treasures of English Church Music
  5. John Browne: Music from the Eton Choirbook

ASIN: B0000031H7
Release Date: 1993-09-11

Tracks:

  1. Ave Maria
  2. Loquebantur variis linguis
  3. Miserere mei
  4. Haec dies
  5. Ave verum corpus
  6. If Ye Love Me
  7. Hide Not Thou Thy Face
  8. Lord, For Thy Tender Mercy's Sake
  9. O Clap Your Hands
  10. Bow Thine Ear
  11. Hosanna To The Son Of David
  12. Lord, How Long Wilt Thou Be Angry
  13. Thou Knowest, Lord
  14. Hear My Prayer, O Lord
  15. Beati Quorum Via
  16. This Joyful Eastertide
  17. Sing Lullaby
  18. A Spotless Rose
  19. What Cheer?
  20. O Taste And See
  21. A Hymn To The Virgin
  22. Jesus Christ The Apple Tree
  23. Faire Is The Heaven

Amazon.com

There's no choir better than the Cambridge Singers for thoughtful, imaginative, cohesive programming, and for an ability to excel in performing music of various styles and periods. Here is a splendid example of this group's mastery of repertoire and choral technique, featuring some of the finest choral music ever written, from Tallis, Byrd, and Gibbons to Stanford, Howells, and Britten. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The best!!!!!!!!!!.......2006-06-02

I am fond of sacred choral music, and I have listened to several groups and CDs. But I have yet to find any group with the superb quality of the Cambridge Singers! Under the direction of John Rutter their smooth, flawless music flows so seemingly effortlessly (though we know that much effort must be made for such angelic quality). The acoustics are awesome as the recording was recorded in an ancient cathedral. They say a whisper will resonate 5 seonds after the whisperer stops. And the selection of music as well is wonderful! There is a progression from the 1500s to the 1900s, and though all the music is nice the first portion is especially melodic, enchanting, relaxing, and inspiring!!! Therefore as the chorus, the recording sound, and the song selections are all EXCELLENT I would definitely recommend this CD to anyone! :)

5 out of 5 stars Far more than faire..........2003-09-08

Recorded in the Lady Chapel of Ely Cathedral (the largest Lady Chapel in England), the Cambridge Singers under the direction of John Rutter produced a great work in this album. Originally produced as a vinyl album in 1982, it was remastered as a CD in 1988. The title derives from a hymn lyric, and the music consists of a sampling of the greatest English church music from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century. The music is meditative, uplifting, and elegant in simplicity and stunning vocal quality.

--Music--
This is all vocal music, unaccompanied by instruments. The disc has four primary sections: Music of the Latin Rite; Music of the Reformation; Music of the Restoration; and Anglican Revival and the twentieth century. The most famous composers in English music history -- Tallis, Byrd, Gibbons -- combine with later masters such as Purcell, Stanford, Howells, Walton, Britten and Vaughan Williams to form a truly masterful collection. These are anthems, hymns and other liturgical pieces that have remained important in Anglican worship, and can be often heard in situ on Sundays around the world. However, the Cambridge Singers bring their special music talent to the task, producing a good standard bearer for music of the English Church.

--Liner Notes--
The notes for this recording include the titles and words, in both Latin and English, for each of the pieces recorded here. It has a brief paragraph of introduction to each piece of music, relating it to its historic and musical contexts. One thing conspicuously missing is any significant biographical information about John Rutter, or any descriptive information about the Cambridge Singers apart from the basic, one-sentence description.

--John Rutter--
Rutter was born in London and educated at Clare College, Cambridge. This was where his career as a composer, arranger and conductor began. His early work was with groups at King's College Chapel at Cambridge as well as the Bath Choir and Philharmonic Orchestra. He has worked for the BBC providing music for educational series such as 'The Archaeology of the Bible Lands', until in 1979 he began forming the Cambridge Singers, and has continued a remarkable career of performance and recording as their director ever since.

--The Cambridge Singers--
The Cambridge Singers are a mixed choir of voices (about 28 voices for this recording), many of whom were members of choir of Rutter's college, Clare College, Cambridge. While they specialise in English and Latin liturgical pieces, they have a wide range of recordings that span from modern compositions (including a remarkable requiem by Rutter) to English folk songs of the Middle Ages.

5 out of 5 stars "Treasures of English Church Music": same music, better buy.......2002-02-01

Thinking of purchasing the "Faire" and "Hail" CDs together? You will save money if you buy them in another guise: "Treasures of English Church Music." This 2-disk set is a reissue that combines Rutter's "Faire" and "Hail" CDs into a single package. You get the same disks for $12-$15 less.

Whatever the package, the music is gorgeous. Highly recommended.

5 out of 5 stars Beautiful.......2001-08-22

Gorgeous sounding church music from early to 20th cent. A CD I play a lot - what more praise does it need?

5 out of 5 stars John Rutter Presents English Chruch Music Through the Ages.......2000-08-19

In this atypical, that is, non-Christmas collection, John Rutter presents English church music from the 16th through the 20th centuries. While one may miss the absence of one or two compositions by Rutter himself, his capacity to achieve a unique sound with a choir is certainly here.

One who has enjoyed Rutter's Christmas music would do well to acquire this collection as well.
Gabriel's Message: One Thousand Years of Carols
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Best Christmas CD available
  • best christmas music-on one cd!
  • Beautiful angel voices
Gabriel's Message: One Thousand Years of Carols

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by BrittenAll Works by Britten | Britten, Sir Benjamin | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by HolstAll Works by Holst | Holst, Gustav | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by RutterAll Works by Rutter | Rutter, John | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by TavenerAll Works by Tavener | Tavener, John Kenneth | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MendelssohnAll Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
HymnsHymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
NoelsNoels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
General ChristmasGeneral Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
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4-for-3 All Music4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Songs of Angels - Christmas Hymns and Carols
  2. The Mystery of Christmas
  3. Christmas with the Academy
  4. The Power & The Majesty: Essential Choral Classics
  5. O Come All Ye Faithful: Christmas Carols at King's College, Cambridge

ASIN: B00002EPSM
Release Date: 1999-10-26

Tracks:

  1. Once In Royal David'S City
  2. In The Bleak Midwinter
  3. In Dulci Jubilo
  4. Away In A Manger
  5. Coventry Carol
  6. Good King Wenceslas
  7. The Truth Sent From Above
  8. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
  9. Gabriel'S Message
  10. The Holly & The Ivy
  11. O Come All Ye Faithful
  12. King Jesus Hath A Garden
  13. Silent Night
  14. Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day
  15. Jesus Christ The Apple Tree
  16. What Sweeter Music
  17. Ding-Dong Merrily On High
  18. A Hymn To The Virgin
  19. God Is With Us
  20. Hark The Herald Angels Sing

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Best Christmas CD available.......2003-12-29

This enthralling CD is the best one out there. The arrangements and performances are top-notch. I only wonder why Naxos has chosen to make all the performances anonymous with its lack of liner notes. Only by going to the Naxos website can you find who is performing what. Among the choirs you will hear on this beautiful CD are the Worcester Cathedral Choir (4 numbers), the Elora Festival Singers (10 numbers) and the Tewkesbury Abbey Choir (6 numbers). If you only have one Christmas CD, this is the one to have.

5 out of 5 stars best christmas music-on one cd!.......2003-07-27

I am a christmas music fanatic. On this cd there are all, plus more, of the songs that I love. It starts with "once in royal david's city",thats sung by a choir and a treble. All the solos on this cd are absolutely amazing. Whether it is by a treble or a man chorister. All the emotions for the songs are right on. Most are sung by the cathedral or abbey choirs. Thats the only thing that bothers me, they don't give you any information on the performers. But I recognize a lot of them. I think Trinity is also on it. but really-its just beautifull. I have no words for it. The price isn't much, if you love christmas music buy it!

5 out of 5 stars Beautiful angel voices.......2002-12-11

I played this at work and EVERY person that passed my desk wanted to know what, who and where. By far one of the most moving collections of Christmas music I have ever heard and I have a collection of over a hundred Christmas Albums and CDs.

Music Review:

  1. Bruckner: Symphony No.3
  2. Cage: Sixteen Dances for Soloist and Company of 3
  3. Cancões, Vilancicos e Motetes Portugueses
  4. Cappuccino and Conversation
  5. Chopin: Etudes Opp. 10 & 25
  6. Christmas from Covent Garden
  7. Classics go Hollywood
  8. Conifer-The First Ten Years
  9. Cupid & Psyche
  10. Debussy: La mer, Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune, etc.

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