Album Notes

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