Christmas Mysteries
Donald Macleod explores how Latvian composers have engaged with the magic and mystery at the heart of the Christmas story, and discovers what Latvians like to eat at Christmas.
Donald Macleod visits the city of Riga to experience the seasonal music and Christmas traditions of Latvia β a country overflowing with choral excellence. Today, he visits Rigaβs central food market to discover what special dishes Latvians like to serve at Christmas Time, and he explores how different composers have engaged with the magic and mystery at the heart of the Christmas story.
PΔteris ButΔns: In the Beginning was the Word
State Choir of Latvija, conducted by MΔris Sirmais
PraulinΕ‘: Missa Rigensis: Credo
I Vocalisti, conducted by Hans-Joachim Lustig
Dubra: Mystery of His Birth
Δriks KirΕ‘felds, cello
LiepΔja Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Atvars LakstΔ«gala
Vasks: The Fruits Of Silence
Vestards Ε imkus, piano
Latvian Radio Choir, conducted by Sigvards Klava,
anon.: Gaude Maria
Schola Cantorum Riga, directed by Guntars PrΔnis
Dubra: Hail, Queen of Heaven
State Choir of Latvia, conducted by MΔris Sirmais
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