Holiday Music
Do you have a favourite holiday song, carol, or hymn? Seasonal music is something that you only listen to at certain times of year because it helps to create a special mood as well as elevate the spirit. Your local library has lots of seasonal music on cd available for you to borrow.
Composed in 1741 by George Frideric Handel, “Messiah” is one of the most popular choral works in the English-speaking world. The full performance takes about three hours but it’s okay to cheat and just listen to the highlights. The Library has a disc of highlights performed the London Symphony Orchestra and accompanied by the St. James 48 Voice Chorale.
Classical singer Andrea Bocelli lost his vision at the age of 12 and found that music was the only thing that comforted him. His seasonal album, entitled “My Christmas” contains an eclectic mix of old and new carols. Bocelli is accompanied by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Natalie Cole, Reba McEntire, and the Muppets.
“The Perfect Gift”, by the Canadian Tenors is aptly titled because the disc would make a wonderful present for anyone. The four members of the Canadian Tenors are accompanied by the Moscow Studio Symphony Orchestra and Sarah McLachlan. The cd offers new and traditional carols as well as a bonus track featuring Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”.
Sting formerly of The Police sings folk songs with a winter theme on the music cd “If On A Winter’s Night”. Sting’s voice is accompanied by violin, harp, and guitar. The result is an album filled with haunting, spiritual, and reflective music.
American country singer Faith Hill’s Christmas album is entitled “Joy To The World” and features beautiful new versions of ten traditional and modern classics, complete with horns, strings, woodwinds and percussion. The result is reminiscent of the big-band orchestras of the 40's and 50's.
Canadian country and folk singer Rita MacNeil says that her choice of songs on “Joyful Sounds: A Seasonal Collection” came from memories from Christmases past. The album contains 22 of MacNeil’s holiday favourites.
If you’re looking for holiday music with a little jazz, why not try Canada’s Diana Krall. Her album “Christmas Songs” showcases her vocal and piano talents. It’s a smooth and mellow way to cruise into the holidays.
The Library’s online catalogue is available on the internet at and allows you to place a hold on any item in the system.
Linda Kent is the Chief Librarian at the City of Kawartha Lakes Public Library
