A Choral Fantasy

Fall 2000 Concert Notes

Tina Johns Heidrich, Conductor
Joe Jacovino, Accompanist
Connecticut Master Chorale Orchestra

Sunday November 12, 2000 - 3:00pm
St. Mary Church, Bethel, Connecticut

- Review - CD -
Vaughan Williams
Ralph Vaughan Williams
1872-1958
(with Foxy)

Fantasia on Christmas Carols by Ralph Vaughan Williams is a remarkable setting of four traditional English Carols that combines serene beauty with stirring jubilance. The manner in which the carols are elaborated and the gorgeous interwoven choral writing allow the composer to sweep us up into the "News of great joy and great mirth!"

A Choral Fantasy by Mark Riese is a unique and enlivening fantasy on the most popular of Christmas carols, "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen".

Let All the World in Every Corner Sing! also by Vaughan Williams is a magnificent outburst of praise that rings out this declamation with utmost brilliance.

Gloria by Randol Bass is a vigorous and exuberant number with a colorful contemporary flare.

The Word Was God, a rousing a cappella spiritual-style anthem with impressive and captivating techniques - based on John I: "In the Beginning".

Pie Jesu by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the most beloved and popular selection from his "Requiem".

A Honduras Alleluia, a joyful and rhythmic Spanish number with percussion.

The Lord Is My Shepherd  by Thomas Matthews, a staple in the repertoire of countless choirs and recordings in America and abroad.

What You Gonna Call Your Pretty Little Baby?, a gorgeous, moving arrangement of a gently rocking spiritual.

Children, Go Where I Send Thee by Mark Hayes - an exceptional and electrifying arrangement of this popular number with modulating keys and rhythmic energy that builds to a powerful finish - a real show stopper!