The Oratorios of Paul Paray
This is a world premiere recording of the two oratorios of French composer and
conductor, Paul Paray.
Pastorale de Noël (A Christmas Pastoral) was an early work composed perhaps in
1908 and written in a single night. It has been orchestrated and the choral
parts have been arranged for mixed chorus by Eduard Perrone. The narrative tells
the whole Christmas story, from the expectation of the Redeemer through the
arrival of the Magi Kings. An alluring charm and melodic freshness permeate this
youthful work.
Performers:
Narrator/Angel
Gabriel/Joseph/Magus.......................................................................David
Troiano
The Virgin Mary/soprano soloist in concluding Gloria
......................................Leisa Marie Carzon
Ariettes..............................................................................................................Catherine
McKeever
Magi .................................................................Michael
Schuster, Richard Beckhold, Thomas Reid
Jeanne d'Arc is an oratorio in three parts with a short prologue, composed in
1913. The libretto relates the events in the heroic life and death of Joan of
Arc, manifesting her patriotism and deep religious convictions. The music is
scored for vocal solists, choir, organ and orchestra. Booklet containing the
complete bilingual text for both works is included.
Performers:
Joan of Arc
................................................................................................................Gina
D'Alessio
Narrator/Saint Michael
........................................................................................Domenico
Bertucci
Hauviette/Saint Catherine
.................................................................................Catherine
McKeever
Saint Margaret
..............................................................................................................Ruth
Lapeyre
Frère Isambart
........................................................................................................Steven
Henrikson
The Choir and Orchestra of Assumption Grotto Church, Detroit, Michigan led by
Eduard Perrone.
From the Critics:
"Eduard Perrone and his excellent Assumption Grotto ensemble have given us
stellar accounts of the oratorios Jeanne d'arc and Pastorale de Noël..."
American Record Guide
From the Critics...
"This (Jeanne d'arc) is a splendid work.....an exquisite work of the gifted
young composer. .....very French and very beautiful. The Assumption Grotto
Orchestra gives an admirable account of this luminous and highly lyrical work (Pastorale),
aided by the rich-sounding and full-bodied choir, all swept up in the passion
and ardor of Fr. Perrone, whose urgent mission on behalf of the Maitre has here
been realized in a treasurable and highly satisfying recording. For lovers of
French music...this is not merely a valuable addition to the recorded repertory:
it is an absolute necessity." American Record Guide