Search - Elisabeth von Trapp :: Christmas Song

Christmas Song is an imaginative blend of soothing medieval hymns, haunting Gregorian chants and sumptuous, centuries-old carols from around the world. Elisabeth, lead vocalist and guitarist, has arranged the selections along with the support of her talented collaborators, cellist Erich Kory and pianist Charles Eller. From the first cut, a 7th century Gregorian chant, Hodi Christus Natus Est, the sound is rich with quiet beauty. In Because all Men are Brothers [ a poem by Tom Glazer gorgeously set to J.S. Bach's Saint Matthew Passion ] Ms. von Trapp's ethereal, crystalline voice is tenderly illuminated by Mr. Kory's resonant cello. Throughout this captivating CD, luminous sensitivity combines with a rich musical pedigree. Elisabeth von Trapp. grand daughter of the famous Baroness, selected all 13 pieces in the collection. She says, " Music has permeated my childhood. We lived, breathed and studied music. My fondest memories are when our farmhouse filled with friends and family and the air resounded with Christmas song. This collection contains some of my favorites.? Mellifluous carols from the Basque, England, France, Austria and Appalachia are combined with popular favorites including Good King Wenceslas. Elisabeth's exquisite voice is accompanied by a superlative arrangement of guitar, cello, keyboard, piano, percussion and Native American flute. The only direct acknowledgement of her family's Sound of Music fame is a soulful rendition of Edelweiss. Elisabeth von Trapp?s Christmas Song, bends Christmas traditions - just a bit.