Seasoned fans of earlier releases, as well as people new to Rutter and the Cambridge Singers will find much to enjoy in A CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL. For new listeners, the beauty will be astounding. For longtime fans, it has everything that made his earlier releases with both Clare College and the Cambridge Singers quality recordings but offers something different too. One noticeable difference in this collection from earlier releases is the accompaniment of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra which gives the orchestral arrangements a more fulsome sound. The majestic sound of the orchestra enhances the vocal beauty of the Cambridge Singers. The collection is enhanced as well by the addition of the Farnham Youth Choir and soloists Elin Manahan Thomas, Clara Sanabras, and Melanie Marshall. Most of the arrangements are by Rutter and he brings the music to life with the musicians at his disposal. The collection includes traditional carols, orchestral pieces including Delius' “Sleigh Ride” which differs from the better known compositions of Mozart and Anderson. The collection has a variety of titles and styles ranging from the traditional “Hark The Herald Angels Sing” to contemporary favorites such as “Mary's Boy Child” to the original such as the Caribbean “The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy.” We also have some compositions by Rutter himself with serenity and beauty that make any Rutter collection worthwhile.
