With Heart and Voice: Christmas Across America
Roger Wilhelm, music director
Peter DuBois, organ
With
Heart and Voice: Christmas Across America continues Madrigalia's explorations of American
sacred music as it focuses on the rich musical repertoire of the Christmas season. The
works of such well-known composers as Leo Sowerby, Daniel Pinkham, Emma Lou Diemer and
Robert Ward are presented along with those of a new generation of composers represented by
Cary Ratcliff,
Morten Lauridsen, David Hogan and K. Lee Scott.
These prominent composers have set Advent and Christmas
texts in a variety of styles. Some have sought inspiration from European or ethnic roots
while others have been moved by more uniquely American sounds and rhythms. From
new-romanticism to folk songs, from spirituals to aleatory music-- the result is a living
musical culture in which a new generation of composers writes sensitively for the
contemporary American choir.
Each of the composers and arrangers represented here has
contributed substantially to our unique musical tradition. There are many other American
composers who are equally deserving. Madrigalia hopes that this recording will help to
preserve the best of our rich heritage for future generations to admire and enjoy.