The Birth of Christ — A Christmas Cantata by Andrew T. Miller — This inspiring, musical celebration brings the Christmas story to vivid life as never before. Through song, the timeless characters beloved the world over: Mary... more », Joseph, Elizabeth and the Shepherds reveal their humanity and passion. Recorded live in Ireland, this historic premiere of The Birth of Christ brings together a chorus of Catholic and Protestant singers who for "One Blessed Night" put aside their sectarian differences and raised their voices in unity and peace around the central mystery of their faith. Featuring a narration of Luke's Nativity by Liam Neeson, this musical treasure will awaken you again to the startling wonder of Christmas.« less
The Birth of Christ
A Christmas Cantata by Andrew T. Miller
This inspiring, musical celebration brings the Christmas story to vivid life as never before. Through song, the timeless characters beloved the world over: Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth and the Shepherds reveal their humanity and passion. Recorded live in Ireland, this historic premiere of The Birth of Christ brings together a chorus of Catholic and Protestant singers who for "One Blessed Night" put aside their sectarian differences and raised their voices in unity and peace around the central mystery of their faith. Featuring a narration of Luke's Nativity by Liam Neeson, this musical treasure will awaken you again to the startling wonder of Christmas.
CD Reviews
An alternative to The Messiah
John M. Emlen | Seattle, WA USA | 11/16/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"For those who love The Messiah, but sometimes feel a bit saturated with it around Christmastime, here is a beautiful alternative. Andrew T. Miller's 'The Birth of Christ', a new Christmas cantata, is surely one of the most moving choral compositions to come along in years. It seems destined already to take its place alongside The Messiah as a Christmas staple. The soloists are superb, the chorus and orchestras good, and Liam Neesan's narration is excellent. The DVD, too, is worth purchasing. Here, we are treated not only to the music but to the beauty of ChristChurch Cathedral in Dublin, Ireland,where it was performed this past summer, only a few yards from where Handel first performed his Messiah."
Tears & Goosebumps
Edmund A. Poyneer II | Mountain Home, ID | 11/11/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'm proud to say that Andy Miller is a friend of mine. I was unfortunately unable to participate in any of the performances of this brand new "classic" about the birth of our Lord.
Immediately after hearing that the DVD and CD were being release on Nov. 6, I immediately ordered both. I was fortunate to receive them, Saturday, Nov. 10, and immediately started viewing the DVD.
The title of my review describes my experience in viewing and listening. The sheer magnificence of the music, with all its nuances, raised the goosebumps. Listening to the soaring, lyrical lines, especially as sung by Robert McPherson and Amy Bils, brought the fountain of tears. It was also great to see the interplay of facial expressions, between the soloists.
It was a true delight, to watch Andy in action, directing the entire ensemble. Hearing that the ensemble was truly international and ecumenical in scope, added to the beauty of the experience."
Truly reverent. Fully relevant.
marval | Tacoma, WA United States | 11/09/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The Birth of Christ: Narrated by Liam Neeson
The music is exciting and genuinely magnificent. The very idea that all of these people of such differing backgrounds came together in a land of historic conflict to celebrate unity in song. These are real people. This is real music. Even with all of the sheer vocal talent, the glorious instrumental movement "Journey to Bethlehem" alone will transcend even the most passive listener.
"
The Birth of Christ: CD Narrated by Liam Neeson
N. Shelly | Kent, WA USA | 11/17/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I am a longtime member of church choirs and have sung many cantatas over the years. This is, in my opinion, the most exciting and beautiful cantata I have ever heard. One song is sung in Hebrew (or is it Aramaic?) and is the prayer for the coming of the Messiah -- beautiful. The most stirring is the "Birth of Christ" song in the cantata where the people are shouting "Is this the one? Is this the one?". It as much highlights the faith of the Jewish people and their relationship with God as it tells the story of the birth of Jesus as the Christ (Messiah). I would recommend watching the DVD to enjoy the production and the CD to listen to with eyes closed in meditation."
Amazing
Stanley R. Becker | Cincinnati, OH United States | 12/05/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This Cantata is amazing and very moving. Mary's Canticle brought tears to
my eyes. This will surely become a Christmas Classic. Excellent preformances by all the soloist. If you like the Messiah this is a must have. I watched it daily for the first week."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1