"John Rutter: Music for Christmas" by Polyphony is a captivating choral album released in 2001, featuring the renowned composer and conductor John Rutter alongside the City of London Sinfonia and conductor Stephen Layton. This collection of 22 tracks offers a delightful blend of traditional and modern Christmas carols, all performed with Polyphony's signature vocal purity and maturity. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, showcasing a variety of styles within the choral genre, making it a perfect accompaniment for the holiday season.
The album includes well-known carols such as "Away in a Manger" and "Silent Night! Holy Night!" as well as lesser-known gems like "Shepherd's Pipe Carol" and "Star Carol." Rutter's arrangements, including those for "I Wonder as I Wander" and "Angel Tidings," add a fresh and innovative touch to the traditional melodies. The recording, produced by Mark Brown, was captured in January 2001 at All Saints, Tooting, United Kingdom, ensuring a high-quality listening experience.
Polyphony's approach to this music is both innocent and mature, capturing the essence of Christmas through their pristine vocal performances. Whether you're a fan of classical choral music or simply looking to enhance your holiday playlist, "John Rutter: Music for Christmas" offers a rich and enjoyable selection of carols that celebrate the spirit of the season.