Rounds #1 & #2 Are Complete!
Two Christmas dinners down … two to go … ! If Rounds #3 & #4 go as smoothly – nay, magically – as the first two rounds, then this is going to be a very special Christmas indeed. Politics, fractiousness and tension were impossible to find at either event … amazing!
Details to follow – but it was midnight when I finally walked in the door and I am happy/exhausted. A good way to fall asleep on Christmas Eve.
If I could find it, I'd put Hank Snow's Reindeer Boogie here -but, no luck with that tonight! Instead, I leave you with two of my favourite choral Christmas selections.
The first, O Magnum Mysterium, does not refer to champagne. No. The words refer to the wonder that animals were present at the birth of Christ. I'm especially attached to this piece because my choir attempted to sing it a few years ago. We failed rather spectacularly, but the process of attempting it was extremely gratifying. I'm not sure I can describe what it is like for me to listen to this piece. It puts me in that same mental/emotional space I get into when I am reading a particularly engrossing novel that hits me on several levels. I close my eyes and visualize the notes, knowing what is coming next, and allow myself to taste the discordant and resolved harmonies, like rolling a fine scotch on my tongue. The basses and baritones just appear from time to time, adding foundation and depth to the structure just as it is about to fall apart. Rich alto voices carry the piece, which is unusual. I particularly like how this version ends so softly, with the power of a multitude of voices whispering a lullaby to Baby Jesus.
Franz Biebl's Ave Maria was a big hit a few years ago in choral circles when Chanticleer recorded it so beautifully. I
don't think this needs much explaining, really – just listen.
To all, a Merry Christmas and to all a good night!
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