Experience the enchanting voices of Kathleen Battle and the New York Choral Artists, along with the Boys' Choir of Harlem, in this timeless collection of Christmas classics. Released in 1986, "A Christmas Celebration" is a captivating journey through beloved holiday carols and seasonal miniatures, expertly conducted by Leonard Slatkin.
This album features 19 tracks, including well-known favorites like "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Silent Night," and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," as well as lesser-known gems such as "Fum, Fum, Fum!" and "Zither Carol." Kathleen Battle's exquisite soprano voice shines throughout, complemented by the rich harmonies of the choral groups.
Spanning a duration of one hour and two minutes, "A Christmas Celebration" is a delightful blend of opera, choral, and classical genres, making it a perfect addition to any holiday playlist. The album's release under Universal Music Australia Pty. Ltd. ensures a high-quality listening experience, capturing the essence of the Christmas season with warmth and elegance. Whether you're a fan of Kathleen Battle or simply looking to enhance your holiday music collection, this album is sure to bring joy and festive cheer.
O Come All Ye FaithfulTraditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
O Holy NightTraditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Bring A Torch, Jeannette, Isabelle (Un Flambeau, Jeannette, Isabella)Traditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Fum, Fum, Fum!Traditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming (Es ist Ein' Ros' Entsprungen)Michael Praetorius, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Ave MariaFranz Schubert, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Gesù BambinoPietro Yon, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Three English Carols: I Saw Three Ships / The First Nowell / The Holly And The IvyTraditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Away In A MangerTraditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Silent NightFranz Xaver Gruber, Gibson, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Hark! The Herald Angels SingFelix Mendelssohn, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Marië Wiegenlied (Mary's Cradle Song)Max Reger, Robert Sadin, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Zither CarolRobert Sadin, Traditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
I Wonder As I WanderTraditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Mary Had A BabyWilliam Dawson, Traditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Rise Up, ShepherdRobert Sadin, Traditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
What Child Is This?Traditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Ave MariaGibson, Traditional, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Finale & Reprise: Veni, Veni Emmanuel / It Came Upon A Midnight Clear / O Little Town Of BethlehemTraditional, Phillips Brooks, Lewis Redner, Franz Xaver Gruber, Gibson, Kathleen Battle, Leonard Slatkin, The Boys Choir Of Harlem, Orchestra of St. Luke's, New York Choral Artists
Kathleen Battle, the acclaimed American operatic soprano, is celebrated for her distinctive vocal range and tone, which have captivated audiences worldwide. Born in Portsmouth, Ohio, Battle first gained recognition through her concert performances with major orchestras in the 1970s before making her opera debut in 1975. Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, she expanded her repertoire to include both lyric and coloratura soprano roles, solidifying her status as one of the finest sopranos of her time. Battle made history as the first African American female opera singer to win both a Grammy and an Emmy, and she has since garnered five Grammy Awards for her extraordinary contributions to the operatic and classical music scenes. After a notable hiatus from the Metropolitan Opera, Battle returned in 2016 and 2024 for memorable performances, showcasing her enduring artistry and vocal beauty. Her mesmerizing performances continue to inspire and enchant audiences, making her a legendary figure in the world of opera and classical music.
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Kathleen Battle
