by Jay Bocook
Album Title: REFORMATION 500: GRACE FOR ALL NATIONS
Recording: Concordia University Chicago Wind Symphony; Concordia-Chicago Kapelle; Senior Choir of Grace Lutheran Church and School
Conductors: Richard R. Fischer; Charles P. Brown; Michael D. Costello
Publisher: MARK Masters 52742-MCD Purchase CD
The heavenly sounds of the Concordia University Chicago Wind Symphony herald the five hundredth anniversary of the Reformation. As in previous recordings by this superb ensemble, the program features various settings of sacred and secular music. Of special interest is African Harmony (Songs from Mama Africa) by Johan de Meij. This work is given two distinct performances; as an instrumental setting and an instrumental with choir setting. Also included is Psalm 46 by John Zdechlik (written before his popular Chorale and Shaker Dance) and To the Virgin-Born by Stephen M. Lounsbrough; a dance and chorale for two pianos, fiddle and wind ensemble. I highly recommend this magnificent recording.
