The Mystery of Christmas – Greek Kalanda (Carols)
There is a tradition among the Greek peoples of the singing of carols (‘Kalanda’) on Christmas Eve. This album is a set of carols newly composed by Greek-Cypriot composer Cilia Petridou. As musical works they also qualify as art-song in fine performances by three excellent sopranos. For those who love Christmas music but want something new, this album will fit the bill.
The three sopranos each take a number of solo carols and form a trio for the last two; Lesley-Jane and Alison have both worked with the composer for some time and also made several highly-praised recordings for Divine Art and Metier.
Cilia Petridou was an accomplished pianist until her career was ended by major surgery, since when she has concentrated on composition. Though she moved to England in 1965, she is deeply affected by the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 and the still unresolved political situation on the island. While some of her music such as that included on the album “Sounds of the Chionistra” reflects this tragedy, her Kalanda are bright and full of joy.
The Carols are sung in Greek. texts and English translations included in the booklet.
Track Listing
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Cilia Petridou (b. 1945):
- The Veil (4:24)
- The Star (3:53)
- In the Manger (3:48)
- Children Awake! (4:05)
- Praise the Newborn (1:34)
- Christmas (1:50)
- The Joys of our Virgin! (3:52)
- Don't Say I Do Not Know! (2:52)
- Hail Mary! (9:42)
- Christ is Born! (4:36)
- Bells (4:47)
- Holy Night (5:14)
- Father Christmas! (4:04)
- Congratulations! (2:45)
Reviews
“These songs have a folk-like character that is appropriate to their subject matter… they are performed here with reverent artistry by capable performers. Exe¬cuted with great care and professionalism, and offers a compelling look at some unique vocal repertoire.
” —Krishan Oberoi
“Simple settings for soprano and piano for those who prefer a more restrained Christmas.
” —Jeremy Pound
“The Greek kalanda, or carols, an old format, are given new life by this modern Cyprus-born composer. If you are sated with Jingle Bells and all the faux-bonhomie pumped out by the likes of Magic FM, this soprano(s)-plus-piano recital will do especially well.
” —Brian Wilson
“Greek texts represent a slightly different view of the traditional Christmas, echoing the Greek Orthodox celebrations. [The composer’s] attractively melodic music has its own distinctive traditional elements to it too.
” —Robert Hugill
“This is a collection of songs for the festive season although you get year-round value. Celebrating the family is part of Christmas and this is lovely music to do that to.
” —Jeremy Condliffe
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