Composer: Various
Works: Story of Christmas, including contributions from Robert Cowper, Giovanni Palestrina, William Byrd, and John Tavener
Performers: Monteverdi Choir, John Eliot Gardiner
Recording: Church of St Peter and St Paul, Salle, Norfolk, May 1998
Label: Philips 462050-2
The “Story of Christmas,” as presented by John Eliot Gardiner and the Monteverdi Choir, is a remarkable tapestry of musical and literary traditions that reflect the multifaceted nature of the Christmas narrative. This recording, drawn from a village nativity play performed at Springhead, home to Gardiner’s family, encapsulates a rich historical context. Between 1935 and 1981, this annual event not only celebrated the festive season but also served as a familial and artistic ritual, intertwining performances with readings from the Gospels and works of notable poets like John Milton. The music selected for this album traverses centuries and borders, offering a panoramic view of the Christmas story through an array of styles, including plainchant, polyphony, and folk carols, thus illustrating the universality of the holiday’s themes.
The performance is marked by meticulous attention to detail, with Gardiner’s direction ensuring that each musical segment unfolds with clarity and purpose. The choice of repertoire is both thoughtful and evocative, featuring a blend of sacred and secular works that range from the ethereal plainsong “Ave Maria, gratia plena” to the lively English carol “Past three a clock.” The Monteverdi Choir offers a sound that is both polished and deeply expressive, displaying a remarkable blend of technical precision and emotional depth. Palestrina’s “Alma Redemptoris Mater,” for instance, is rendered with breathtaking clarity, showcasing the choir’s ability to navigate intricate counterpoint while maintaining a serene, contemplative atmosphere.
The technical aspects of the performance are commendable, with the choir’s diction and blend particularly striking. Each voice is discernible yet harmoniously integrated, allowing for a rich tapestry of sound that enhances the overall storytelling. The recording quality deserves special mention; the acoustics of the Church of St Peter and St Paul provide a natural reverberation that enriches the choral textures without overwhelming them. This acoustic setting complements the reflective nature of the selections, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the sacred narrative.
In drawing comparisons to other recordings of similar repertoire, Gardiner’s approach stands out for its seamless integration of readings and music, creating an unfolding tableau rather than a series of disparate performances. The inclusion of works such as Howell’s “A Spotless Rose” and Tavener’s “The Lamb” serves not only to elevate the musical discourse but also highlights contemporary interpretations of traditional themes. This recording, while perhaps appealing to a niche audience, is a testament to Gardiner’s commitment to reviving and celebrating historical performance practices and the broader cultural significance of Christmas music.
The “Story of Christmas” is not merely a collection of carols and motets but a thoughtfully curated experience that invites listeners into the heart of the holiday spirit. Gardiner’s vision, combined with the Monteverdi Choir’s exceptional artistry, offers a compelling reflection on the narrative of Christmas, making this recording a valuable addition to any serious collection of choral music. The interplay of text and music, along with the high production values, underscores the profound relevance of this age-old story, beautifully rendered for both the devout and the curious listener alike.
