This absolutely essential Christmas collection is actually a combination of two Trinity College Choir recordings originally released separately under the titles “Carols from Trinity” and “A Child Is Born,” the latter of which is still offered as a single CD. This two-disc set is a great value, both financially and musically. Here are 53 of the finest, most popular, best-loved, and best-sung Christmas carols, anthems, and motets from medieval times to the present, performed and recorded in the wonderful acoustic space of the Trinity College Chapel. Unlike the choirs of Trinitys famous Cambridge neighbors, Kings and St. Johns colleges–which consist entirely of men and boys, Trinity is a mixed ensemble with female sopranos and altos. The tone, blend, and balance are exquisite and the combination of the three stands as an ideal, and the choirs ensemble technique and musicianship are unsurpassed. –David Vernier

5 Responses to “Carols from Trinity – The Choir of Trinity College (2 CDs) (Conifer)”

1. Peter D. Thompson says:

   December 31, 2004 at 12:00 am

   The Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge has youthful energy and also mature musicality in this delightful, but still very serious recording of sacred choral Christmas music. Perfect diction, dynamics, and tone, led by Richard Marlow, director. The second disc is better than the first–it contains less traditional music and more unaccompanied British choral music, what the choir does best. A great gift for choral enthusiasts and traditional carol lovers alike.

   Best tracks: “What Cheer?” by William Walton, “The Three Kings” by Peter Cornelius, “Coventry Carol” by Kenneth Leighton, “Hymn to the Virgin” by Benjamin Britten, “Tomorrow shall be my dancing day” arr. by David Willcocks, “A Great and Mighty Wonder” arr. by Richard Marlow.
2. Wesley Bassett says:

   January 15, 2008 at 12:00 am

   This is familiar, traditional Christmas music, very well-crafted and performed in the Anglican style of hymnody. One of the best ever Christmas albums.
3. Anja MacDowell says:

   January 6, 2009 at 12:00 am

   As an avid collector of sacred Christmas music, this was a solid addition.
   
   Recording quality was excellent although DB level was on the soft side. The choice of carols included many rarely heard and a few classics. All were perfomed well with some refreshing arrangements. The organ solos were crisp and well done. Typically excellent as one can expect from this British mixed voice choir with John Marlow as director.