STEREO CD-SDL 369

DIGITALRECORDING

ChristmasChant

Traditional Latin Plainchantfor Christmas from the

monks of Prinknash and the

nuns of Stanbrook Abbeys

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The monks & nuns of Prinknash & Stanbrook Abbeys

The monks of Prinknash were joined by the Bishops Cannings Schola for this recording

Choirmaster Fr Charles WatsonAll text translations © Stanbrook AbbeyRecorded at Stanbrook Abbey, June 1987

Recorded & Produced by Gef Lucena (Saydisc)& David Wilkins (Valley Recordings)

Cover illustrations by courtesy of Malvern PrioryBooklet designed by Genny Lucena

Recorded and edited using CLUE system, Sony PCM 701Digital encoder, AKG C414 microphones in crossed

hypercardioid configuration.

Printed and made in EC

ISRC: GBAJX87369 01 to 22

©1987, Saydisc Records, EnglandSAYDISC RECORDS, THE BARTON, INGLESTONE COMMON,

BADMINTON, S. GLOS GL9 1BX, ENGLANDFax: 01454 299858 Email: saydisc@aol.com

website: www.saydisc.com

Some of our SAYDISC unusual, traditional & exotic albums and Amon Ra authentic performances onoriginal instruments. Visit www.saydisc.com or write for more details and suppliers:CD-SDL 325 Like Waves Against The Sand - trad music from China - pipa, erhu, yanqin, percussionCD-SDL 327 Enchanted Carols - musical boxes, handbells, handbell choir, street pianos, brass bandCD-SDL 333 Ringing Clear - Handbell tune and change ringing in various stylesCD-SDL 343 On Kielder Side - Northumbrian Pipe music from Kathryn TickellCD-SDL 353 Fleur Du Jura - Parisian style cafe music from Danielle Pauly - French accordion QueenCD-SDL 358 Keep The Home Fires Burning - music of the 1st World War from the original recordings CD-SDL 360 Under The Greenwood Tree - Carols and dances from Thomas Hardy manuscripts, etcCD-SDL 367 Kurokami- Traditional music of Japan -koto/shakuhachi/shamisenCD-SDL 373 Music From The Time Of The Spanish Armada -The York Waits renaissance town bandCD-SDL 374 The Music Of The Hurdy Gurdy - Nigel Eaton & friends—bourreés to VivaldiCD-SDL 376 Disappearing World - Unique recordings of music from 17 endangered cultures CD-SDL 378 Church Bells Of England - 16 famous peals, Cotswolds, Bristol incl. St. Pauls, Westminster CD-SDL 383 Sing Lustily & With Good Courage - Favourite 18th c. hymns - Maddy Prior/ Carnival BandCD-SDL 387 Traditional Arabic Music - Hassan Erraji with Arabesque - ud, nay, saz, darbouka, bandir, etcCD-SDL 388 Music Of the Andes - Caliche - pan-pipes, charango, quena, bombo drum, etcCD-SDL 391 Traditional Songs of Scotland - Ray Fisher with bagpipe, violin, accordion etcCD-SDL 393 English Country Dances - The Broadside Band - favourite Playford dancesCD-SDL 396 Vocal Traditions of Bulgaria - exciting music from the Archives of Radio SofiaCD-SDL 400 English National Songs - Lucie Skeaping & John Potter with The Broadside BandCD-SDL 402 Traditional Songs of England - Jo Freya with fiddles, concertina, hurdy-gurdy, viols, etcCD-SDL 403 Spirit of Polynesia - The David Fanshawe trilogy of traditional Pacific music, volume 1CD-SDL 405 Sea Songs & Shanties - from the last days of sail -Bob Roberts, Cadgwith Fishermen, etcCD-SDL 406 Traditional Songs of Wales - Siwsann George with Welsh triple harp, crwth, hurdy-gurdy, etcCD-SDL 408 The Victorian Musical Box - numerous rare disc and cylinder musical boxesCD-SDL 409 Songs and Dances From Shakespeare - The Broadside Band and singersCD-SDL 413 Cockney Kings of Music Hall - the original recordingsCD-SDL 417 A Celtic Christmas - from Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Cornwall and BritannyCD-SDL 419 Old English Nursery Rhymes - Vivien Ellis / Tim Laycock and The Broadside BandCD-SDL 422 Compline & Other Chant: Latin & English, nuns of Stanbrook/monks of Prinknash AbbeysCD-SDL 427 Folk Music of Tibet - field recordings of songs and instrumental musicCD-SDL 429 Carillon Bells of Britain - Kilmarnock, Aberdeen, Perth, Bournville, LoughboroughCD-SDL 430 The Celtic Harp - The Celtic heritage of harp music from Wales, Ireland and ScotlandCD-SAR 10 Clarinet Collection - Alan Hacker (historic clarinets) with keyboard, etcCD-SAR 18 Guitar Collection - Nigel North (historic guitars) with Maggie Cole (keyboards)CD-SAR 53 Music For Mandolin - Alison Stevens - mandolin duets, mandolin & fortepianoCD-SAR 62 A Golden Treasury of Elizabethan MusicCD-SAR 63 A Golden Treasury of Medieval MusicCD-SAR 69 A Golden Treasury of Ancient Instruments

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21. Antiphon: HODIEHodie Christus natus est: hodie Salvatorapparuit: hodie in terra canunt Angelis,laetantur Archangeli: hodie exsultant justi,dicentes: Gloria in excelsis Deo, alleluia.

Today Christ is born, today the Saviour hasappeared, today angels sing on earth andarchangels rejoice; today the just are gladand say: ‘Glory to God in the highest,alleluia’.

22. Recessional: PUER NATUSPuer natus in Bethlehem, alleluia: Undegaudet Jerusalem, alleluia, alleluia.In cordis jubilo Christum natum adoremus,Cum novo cantico.Assumpsit carnem Filius, alleluia, DeiPatris altissimus. Per Gabrielem nuntium,alleluia, Virgo concepit Filium. Tamquamsponsus de thalamo, alleluia, ProcessitMatris utero. Hic jacet in praesepio,alleluia, Qui regnat sine terming. EtAngelus pastoribus, alleluia, Revelat quodsit Dominus. Reges de Saba veniunt,alleluia, Aurum, thus, myrrham offerunt.Intrantes domum invicem, alleluia, Novumsalutant Principem. Laudetur sanctaTrinitas, alleluia, Deo dicamus gratias,alleluia, alleluia.

A child is born in Bethlehem, alleluia, andso Jerusalem is glad, alleluia, alleluia.

In the joy of our hearts let us adore the newborn Christ, with a new song.The Father’s Son has taken flesh, alleluia.He is the Son of God Most High, alleluia,alleluia.As was revealed through Gabriel, alleluia, avirgin has conceived a Son, alleluia,alleluia.As bridegroom from his bridal room,alleluia, he came forth from his mother’swomb, alleluia, alleluia.In a manger crib he lies, alleluia, he whosereign shall never end, alleluia, alleluia.An Angel to the shepherds came, alleluia,revealing that he is the Lord, alleluia,alleluia.The kings of Saba make their way, alleluia,to give gold, frankincense and myrrh,alleluia, alleluia.In the joy of this great birth, alleluia, let ussing blessings to the Lord, alleluia,alleluia.Praise to the Holy Trinity, alleluia; let usproclaim our thanks to God, alleluia,alleluia.In the joy of our hearts let us adore thenew born Christ with a new song.

CHRISTMAS CHANT—Traditional Latin Plainsong

1 Sequence Laetabundus [3’14”]Extracts from Matins:

2 Invitatory Christus Natus Est. ps. 94 [9’38”]3 Hymn Christe Redemptor Melody from Ely MS [3’28”]4 Antiphon Dominus Dixit Ps.2 [4’19”]5. Lesson Isaiah. Ch.9. vv1-6 [3’11”]6 Responsory Verbum Caro [5’22”]7 Marian Anthem Alma Redemptoris Mater [1’57”]

Mass Chants:8 Introit Dominus Dixit Midnight Mass [3’02”]9 Kyrie Missa IV: Cunctipotens [1’59”]10. Gloria [3’51”]11 Gradual Omnes de Saba Epiphany [2’45”]12 Alleluia Dawn Mass [2’53”]13. Offertory Laetentur Midnight Mass [1’20”]14 Sanctus [1’41”]15 AgnusDei [1’20”]16 Communion In Splendoribus Midnight Mass [0’49”]

Short Hymns & Chants:17. Hymn: Angelus Ad Virginem [3’18”]18 Anthem: Ecce Nomen [1’13”]19 Antiphon: Quem Vidistis [0’48”]20. Antiphon: Angelus Ad Pastores [0’47”]21. Antiphon: Hodie [1’08”]22. Recessional: Puer Natus [4’34”]

Total duration: 62’48”

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CHRISTMAS CHANT

The celebration of the birth of Christhas inspired artists, poets and musicians formany centuries. Some of the more popularliturgical chants of the season have alreadybeen recorded, and those chosen for thisrecording are taken mainly from the Officeof Matins and the Mass. A few extra-liturgical pieces are included. Thecollaboration of the monks of Prinknashand nuns of Stanbrook here provides anopportunity for some antiphonal singing notusually possible to the communities in theirseparate monasteries. It enables them topresent an original and dramatic renderingof the antiphon ‘Hodie’ taken from IIVespers of Christmas.

The record opens with Laetabundus.This sequence (hymn following the alleluiabefore the Gospel) was written in thetwelfth century and is sometimes attributedto St Bernard or Adam of St Victor. The useof rhyme gives the text a flowinggracefulness. The contemporary musicalsetting maintains an F major tonality,exploiting different ranges within theverses.

Extracts from Matins. The long nightoffice of Matins is made up of manyelements. A selection of the most importantis given here. The Invitatory, so calledbecause it is an invitation to worship,

occurs near the beginning of Matins. TheRule of Benedict specifies the use of psalm94, settings of which show Gregorianrecitative at its most elaborate. In thethirteenth century Worcester Antiphonerthere are over a hundred invitatoryantiphons and thirteen special tones for thepsalm verses. The ancient character of theinvitatory is shown by the fact that the textis taken not from the Vulgate (St Jerome’sLatin translation of the scriptures) but fromthe older Itala version. The division intoverses is different, and the phrase ‘quondamnon repellet Dominus plebem’ is not foundin the Vulgate.

Christe Redemptor. This hymnprobably dates from the sixth century andfollows the Ambrosian pattern, focusingattention on the mystery of salvationinaugurated by Christ’s birth. The musiccomes from a thirteenth century manuscriptcompiled at Ely.

Dominus dixit is the first antiphon ofMatins and uses a line of psalm 2particularly appropriate to the feast. Thewords ‘filius’ and ‘genui’ are central to thecomposer’s interpretation of the text.

Lesson and Responsory. A rector singsthe ancient prophecy of Isaiah, ‘Unto us achild is born’, using a tone from theWorcester Antiphoner. The choir thenresponds with the words of St John’sGospel, ‘the Word became flesh and dwelt

Tuum exora Filium ut se nobis propitiumExhibeat, et defeat peccata: praestansauxilium Vita frui beata post hoc exsilium.

To the Virgin an angel came: as he enteredthe room he calmed her fear and said:Hail! Hail queen of virgins! You willconceive the Lord of heaven and earth. Noman will touch you, yet you will give birthto the salvation of mankind. You willbecome the gate of heaven, sin’s healing.To this the noble Virgin replied: I am alowly servant of the all-powerful God.Aware as I am of this great secret, I cantell you, heavenly one, that I give myassent, and long to see that which I haveheard come about. Most readily shall Iobey the will of God.Let us rejoice with you, Mother of the Lord:you brought peace to men and angels whenyou gave birth to Christ. Entreat your Sonto reveal himself to us in his mercy anddestroy our sins: his help will bring usthrough this exile to enjoy the blessing oflife.

18. Anthem: ECCE NOMENEcce nomen Domini Emmanuel, quodannuntiatum est per Gabriel, hodie apparuitin Israel: per Mariam Virginem est natusRex. Eia Virgo Deum genuit, ut divinevoluit clementia. In Bethlehem natus est, etin Jerusalem visus est, et in omnem terram

honorificatus est Rex Israel.

Behold! The Name of the Lord, Emmanuel,made known by Gabriel, has appeared inIsrael this day: he is born as king, of theVirgin Mary. Joy! A virgin has given birthto God; the kindness of God so willed it. Hehas been born in Bethlehem; he has beenseen in Jerusalem; he has received homagethroughout the whole earth, the king ofIsrael.

19. Antiphon: QUEM VIDISTISQuem vidistis, pastores? dicite: annuntiatenobis, in ferris quis apparuit? Natumvidimus, et choros Angelorum collaudantesDominum, alleluia, alleluia.

Shepherds, whom have you seen? Tell us,who has appeared on earth? We have seen anew born baby, and choirs of angels singingpraise to the Lord, alleluia, alleluia.

20. Antiphon:ANGELUS AD PASTORESAngelus ad pastores ait: Annuntio vobisgaudium magnum: quia natus est vobishodie Salvator mundi, alleluia.

The angel said to the shepherds: I bring younews of great joy. Today is born for you theSaviour of the world, alleluia.

Lord. Arise and be enlightened, Jerusalem!For the glory of the Lord has dawned uponyou.

12. ALLELUIA Dawn MassAlleluia. Dominus regnavit, decoreminduit: induit Dominus fortitudinem, etpraecinxit se virtute.

Alleluia. The Lord is king: he has clothedhimself in beauty, he has put on strengthand girded himself with power.

13. Offertory: LAETENTUR MidnightMassLaetentur caeli, et exsultet terra ante faciemDomini: quondam venit.

Let heaven rejoice and earth be glad at thepresence of the Lord, for he comes.

14. SANCTUS Sanctus Dominus Deus Sabaoth. Plenisunt caeli et terra gloria tua. Hosanna inexcelsis. Benedictus qui venit in nomineDomini.;

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God of Hosts.Heaven and earth are full of your glory.Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he whocomes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna inthe highest.

15. AGNUS DEIAgnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi:miserere nobis/dona nobis pacem.

Lamb of God, who take away the sins of theworld, have mercy on us. Lamb of God,who take away the sins of the world, havemercy on us. Lamb of God, who take awaythe sins of the world, grant us peace.

16. Communion: IN SPLENDORIBUSMidnight MassIn splendoribus sanctorum, ex utero anteluciferum genui te.

In the splendour of the holy ones before thedaybreak I begot you.

Short Hymns & Chants17. Hymn: ANGELUS AD VIRGINEMAngelus ad Virginem subintrans inconclave Virginis formidinem demulcensinquit: Ave, Ave, Regina virginum, caeliterraeque Dominum Concipies, et pariesintacta salutem hominum. Tu porta caelifacta, medela criminum. Ad haec virgo nobilis responders inquit ei:Ancilla sum humilis omnipotentis Dei. Tibicaelesti nuntio, tanti secreti conscioConsentiens, et cupiens videre factum quodaudio; Parata sum parere Dei consilio. EjaMater Domini, quae pacem reddidistiAngelis et homini, cum Christum genuisti:

amongst us’. The melismatic quality of themusic is aptly suited to the meditative moodof Matins and permits reflection on thewords as they are sung.

The Marian anthem Alma Redemp-toris mater is sung during Advent andChristmastide and is ascribed to Herman theCripple (+1054). Originally used as a psalmantiphon at Sext on the feast of theAssumption, the Alma lost its psalmodiccharacter in the thirteenth century and cameto be sung on its own at the end of the officeof Compline.

The Mass chants are sung in the orderin which they occur during Mass.

Introit: Dominus dixit. Three Massesare sung on Christmas Day, at midnight, atdawn and during the day hours. Eachconcentrates on a different aspect of theChristmas story— at midnight, the birth ofthe Son of God. The Introit takes up thetheme introduced at Matins and reworks itin a beautifully serene IInd mode setting.The repetition of melodic patterns, as in‘Dominus’ and ‘ego’, helps emphasise themeaning of the words.

Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Agnus Dei.The earliest extant manuscripts of Missa IVdate from the tenth century, but in allprobability the music is much older. In eachpiece melodic patterns recur and the effect

is one of sober joy.Omnes de Saba. The feast of the

Epiphany, known in the East as the Feast ofLights, is older than the feast of Christmas.This gradual (text sung after the firstreading) is based on lines from Isaiah 60which suggest two of the major Epiphanythemes: light, and the gifts brought by theMagi. The Alleluia, sung before theGospel, is one of a group of less than adozen in which the melody of the alleluiasection is not woven into the verse, yet it isone of the oldest known to us.

Laetentur. Verses from psalm 95 areused at the offertory to express the joy ofcreation at the coming of the Lord and thedawn of our redemption. The communionantiphon

In Splendoribus is set in the VIthmode. The simplicity of the treatment of thewords from psalm 109 speaks eloquently ofthe wonder and awe experienced at themystery of the Incarnation.

Angelus ad Virginem. This delightfulfourteenth century account of theAnnunciation was very popular in theMiddle Ages. In Chaucer’s ‘Miller’s Tale’ itwas sung of an evening by Nicholas, theClerk of Oxenford, to the accompanimentof his ‘gay suatrye’.

Ecce nomen. an attractive example ofthe medieval fondness for expressingtheology in rhyme and setting it to music.

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Two antiphons from Lauds have adramatic effect provided by their use ofdialogue and repetition, reflecting theliveliness of medieval liturgy whichreceived a great stimulus in the tenthcentury from the creation of liturgicaldrama. The repeated ‘hodie’ of theMagnificat antiphon is a vivid reminder ofthe fact that in the liturgy salvation historyis made actual.

Puer natus. This Christmas carol wasespecially popular in Germany but appearsalso in a sixteenth century Herefordcollection. First found in a fourteenthcentury Benedictine Processional, it wasprobably composed for the purpose it fulfilsin this recording.

1. Sequence: LAETABUNDUSLaetabundus exsultet fidelis chorus,Alleluia: Regem regum Intactae profuditthorus, Res miranda. Angelus consiliiNatus est de Virgine, Sol de stella: Soloccasum nesciens, Stella semper rutilans,Semper clara. Sicut sidus radium ProfertVirgo Filium, Pari forma. Neque sidusradio, Neque Mater Filio Fit corrupta.Cedrus alta Libani Conformatur hyssopoValle rostra. Verbum ens Altissimi,Corporari passum est, Carne sumpta. Isaiascecinit, Synagoga meminit, Numquamtamen desinit Esse caeca. Si non sudsvatibus, Credat vel gentilibus Sibyllinis

versibus Haec praedicta. Infelix propera,Crede vel vetera: Cur darunaberis, Gensmisera? Quem docet littera Natumconsidera: Ipsum genuit Puerpera. Alleluia.

Let the choir of the faithful sing for joy,alleluia. She whom no man has known hasbrought forth the king of kings, to cause uswonder. The Angel of God’s Counsel isborn of a Virgin, the Sun born of a Star—the Sun that never sets, the Star that alwaysshines most brightly. As a star radiatinglight, so did the virgin bring forth her Son,herself remaining a virgin. As a star is notdimmed by its light, neither was thismother touched by death in the birth of herSon. The tall cedar of Lebanon has bowedlow to our valley of bitter herbs. The Wordof the Most High has submitted to a bodyand become flesh. Isaiah told of this: thepeople of the synagogue were aware of it,but remained blind. If they will not listen totheir own prophets, let them believe theSibylline verses of the gentiles, for theyforetold these things. Come, unhappy one;believe what has been told from of old.Why be cast away, a race to be pitied? Lookat him, about whom the Scriptures taught,now newly-born: a maiden has given himbirth.

Extracts from Matins2. Invitatory: CHRISTUS NATUS

Mass Chants8. Introit: DOMINUS DIXIT MidnightMassDominus dixit ad me: Filius meus es tu, egohodie genui te. Quare fremuerunt gentes: etpopuli meditati sunt inania? Gloria Patri etFilio et Spiritui Sancto. Sicut erat inprincipio et nunc et semper et in saeculasaeculorum. Amen.

The Lord said to me: You are my Son.Today I have begotten you. Why are thenations stirring and the peoples cogitatinglies?

9. KYRIE Missa IV: CunctipotensKyrie eleison. Christe eleison. Kyrieeleison.

Lord have mercy. Christ have mercy. Lordhave mercy.

10. GLORIAGloria in excelsis Deo. Et in terra paxhominibus bonae voluntatis. Laudamus te.Benedicimus te. Adoramus te.Glorificamus te. Gratias agimus tibi proptermagnam gloriam tuam. Domine Deus, Rexcaelestis, Deus Pater omnipotens. DomineFili unigenite Jesu Christe. Domine Deus,Agnus Dei, Filius Patris. Qui tollis peccatamundi, miserere nobis. Qui tollis peccatamundi, suscipe deprecationem nostram.

Qui sedes ad dexteram Patris, misererenobis. Quoniam tu solus sanctus. Tu solusDominus. Tu solus Altissimus, JesuChriste. Cum Sancto Spiritu in gloriam DeiPatris. Amen.

Glory to God in the highest. And on earthpeace to men of good will. We praise you.We bless you. We adore you. We glorifyyou. We give you thanks for your greatglory. Lord God, king of heaven, God thealmighty Father. Lord Jesus Christ, theonly-begotten Son. Lord God, Lamb ofGod, Son of the Father. Who take away thesins of the world, have mercy on us. Whotake away the sin of the world, receive ourprayer. You are seated at the right hand ofthe Father: have mercy on us. For you aloneare holy. You alone are the Lord. You aloneare the Most High, Jesus Christ, with theHoly Spirit in the glory of God the Father.Amen.

11. Gradual: OMNES DE SABAEpiphanyOmnes de Saba venient, aurum et thusdeferentes, et laudem Dominoannuntiantes. Surge, et illuminareJerusalem: quia gloria Domini super te ortaest.

All will come from Saba bringing gold andincense and proclaiming the praise of the

Consiliarius, Deus Fortis, Pater futurisaeculi, Princeps pacis.

In former times the land of Zebulun and theland of Naphtali were considered of noimportance, but now the land by the sea ofGalilee on the other side of the Jordan, theland of the Gentiles, has received greathonour. The people that walked in darknesshave seen a great light; on those who livedin the shadow of death light has dawned.You have made the nation prosper andincreased their joy. They rejoice at yourpresence with the joy of harvest time, withthe delight of men dividing the booty ofwar. For you have lifted the burden from hisshoulder, broken the sceptre of hisoppressor as on the day of Midian. Forevery bloodstained cloak, all the plunder ofbattle will be burnt as fuel for the fire. For achild is born for us, a Son given to us, andthe kingdom is laid on his shoulder. HisName will be Wonderful Counsellor,Mighty God, Father of the Ages, Prince ofPeace.

6. Responsory: VERBUM CAROVerbum caro factum est et habitavit innobis: et vidimus gloriam ejus, gloriamquasi Unigeniti a Patre, plenum gratiae etveritatis. In principio erat Verbum, etVerbum erat apud Deum, et Deus eratVerbum. Et vidimus. Gloria Patri, et Filio,

et Spiritui Sancto.

The Word was made flesh and made hishome among us: and we saw his glory, theglory of the only Son of the Father, full ofgrace and truth. In the beginning was theWord and the Word was with God, and theWord was God. And we saw his glory, theglory of the only Son of the Father, full ofgrace and truth.Glory be to the Father and to the Son and tothe Holy Spirit.

7. Marian Anthem:ALMA REDEMPTORIS MATERAlma Redemptoris Mater, quae pervia caeliPorta manes, Et stella maris, succurrecadenti Surgere qui curat populo: Tu quaegenuisti, Natura mirante, tuum sanctumGenitorem: Virgo prius ac posterius,Gabrielis ab ore Sumens illud Ave,peccatorum miserere.

Kindest Mother of our Redeemer, you arethe gate of heaven and the star of the sea:raise up this fallen people and come to helpthem in their cares. You gave birth to theholy one who made you, while naturelooked on in wonder: for you remained avirgin, receiving that word of salutation byGabriel’s lips. Look with kindness on allwho sin.

EST. Ps. 94Christus natus est nobis: Venite, adoremus.Psalm 94Venite, exsultemus Domino, jubilemusDeo, salutari nostro: praeoccupemusfaciem ejus in confessione, et in psalmisjubilemus ei.Christus..Quoniam Deus magnus Dominus, et Rexmagnus super omnes deos: quondam nonrepellet Dominus plebem suam: quia inmenu ejus sunt omnes fines terrae, etaltitudines montium ipse conspicit. Venite.Quoniam ipsius est mare, et ipse fecit illud,et aridam fundaverunt menus ejus: venite,adoremus, et procidamus ante Deum:ploremus coram Domino, qui fecit nos,quia ipse est Dominus Deus noster; nosautem populus ejus, et oves pascuae ejus.Christus.Hodie, si vocem ejus audieritis, noliteobdurare corda vestra, sicut inexacerbatione secundum diem tentationisin deserto: ubi tentaverunt me patres vestri,probaverunt et viderunt opera mea. Venite.Quadraginta annis proximus fui generation)huic, et dixi: Semper hi errant corde; ipsivero non cognoverunt vies me as : quibusjuravi in ire mea: Si introibunt in requiemmeam. Christus.Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto.Sicut erat in principio, et nunc, et semper, etin saecula saeculorum. Amen.

Christ is born for us today, come, let usworship.Come, let us rejoice in the Lord, let us singfor joy to God, our salvation. Let us go intohis presence in adoration, and let us singpsalms to him. Christ is born.For the Lord is God, the great one; he is agreat king above all gods. The Lord doesnot reject his people; for in his hand are theends of the earth; the heights of themountains are known to him. Come.The sea belongs to him, for he made it; hishands laid the foundations of the earth.Come, let us go into the presence of Godand adore him; let us weep before the Lordwho made us, for he is the Lord, our God.We are his people, the sheep he pastures.Christ is born.Today, if you would hear his voice, do notharden your hearts as on that bitter day oftemptation in the desert, when your fathersput me to the test, when they subjected meto their scrutiny, to see my works. Come.For forty years I was with this people, andI said: In their hearts they are alwayswandering away; indeed, they do not knowmy ways. And so I made an oath to them inmy anger, if they would enter my rest.Christ is born.Glory be to the Father and to the Son and tothe Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning,is now and ever shall be, world withoutend. Amen.

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3. Hymn: CHRISTE REDEMPTORMelody from Ely MS.Christe Redemptor omnium, Ex PatrePatris unice, Solus ante principium Natusineffabiliter.Tu lumen, tu splendor Patris, Tu spesperennis omnium: Intende quas funduntpreces Tui per orbem famuli.Memento salutis Auctor, Quod nostriquondam corporis, Ex illibata VirgineNascendo, formam sumpseris.Sic praesens testatur dies, Currens per annicirculum, Quod solus a sede Patris Mundisalus adveneris.Hunc caelum, terra, hunc mare, Huncomne quod in eis est, Auctorem adventustui Laudans exultat cantico.Nos quoque, qui sancto tuo Redemptisanguine sumus, Ob diem natalis tuiHymnum novum concinimus.Gloria tibi Domine, Qui natus es deVirgine, Cum Patre et Sancto Spiritu, Insempiterna saecula. Amen.

Christ, redeemer of all, born of the Father asthe Father’s only Son, born alone, beforethe beginning, in a manner beyondwords—You are the light, you are thebrightness of the Father, you are the never-dying hope of all: listen to the prayerswhich your servants throughout the worldpour out to you. Source of our salvation,remember that in your birth from the sinless

virgin you were formed as we were, takingon yourself our own body. As the year moves on in its cycle this day iseager to bear witness to this: that you camealone from the kingdom of the Father to bethe salvation of the world. The sky, theearth, the sea and all that is in them rejoiceat the coming of their creator and praise youwith song. We too, who have been redeemed by yourholy blood, sing a new hymn for the day ofyour birth. Glory to you, Lord, born of the Virgin, withthe Father and the Holy Spirit for ever.Amen.

4. Antiphon: DOMINUS DIXIT. Ps. 2Dominus dixit ad me: Filius meus es tu, egohodie genui te.Psalm 2Quare fremuerunt Gentes, et populimeditati sunt inania? Astiterunt reges terrae,et principes convenerunt in unum adversusDominum, et adversus Christum ejus.Dirumpamus vincula eorum: etprodiciamus a nobis jugum ipsorum. Quihabitat in caelis, irridebit eos: et Dorninussubsannabit eos. Tunc loquetur ad eos in iresua, et in furore suo conturbabit eos. Egoautem constitutus sum Rex ab eo super Sionmontem sanctum ejus, praedicanspraeceptum ejus. Dominus dixit ad me:Filius meus es tu, ego hodie genui te.

Postula a me, et dabo tibi Genteshereditatem tuam, et possessionem tuamterminos terrae. Reges eos in virgo ferrea, ettamquam vas figuli confringes eos. Et nuncreges, intelligite: erudimini, qui judicatisterrain. Servite Domino in timore: etexsultate ei cum tremore. Apprehenditedisciplinam, nequando irascatur Dominus,et pereatis de via juste. Cum exarserit inbrevi ire ejus, beati omnes qui confidunt ineo Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto,sicut erat in principio et nunc et semper, etin saecula saeculorum. Amen.

The Lord said to me: You are my Son, Ihave begotten you this day.Psalm 2Why are the gentiles in ferment, why are thepeoples pondering over lies? The kings ofthe earth have arisen, their princes havecome together as one against the Lord andagainst his anointed: ‘Let us burst theirbonds and throw off their yoke’. He whodwells in the heavens will deride them; theLord will pour scorn on them. Then he willspeak to them in his anger; in his rage hewill throw them into confusion. For I havebeen enthroned as king by him on Sion, hisholy mountain, to make his will known. TheLord said to me: You are my Son; today Ihave begotten you. Ask from me, and I shallgive you the gentiles as your heritage andthe ends of the earth as your possession.

You will rule kings with a rod of iron andbreak them like an earthenware pot. Andnow, you kings, understand; submit toknowledge, rulers of the earth: serve theLord with awe and worship him with dread.Receive discipline, lest you provoke theanger of the Lord and fall from the rightway. But his anger quickly passes: blessedare those who trust in him. Glory be to theFather and to the Son and to the Holy Spiritas it was in the beginning, is now and evershall be, world without end. Amen.

5. Lesson: Isaiah. Ch. 9. vv1-6.Primo tempore alleviate est terra Zabulon etterra Nephtali: et novissimo aggravate estvia maris bans Jordanem Galilaeaegentium. Populus, qui ambulabat intenebris, vidit lucem magnam: habitantibusin regione umbrae mortis, lux orta est eis.Multiplicasti gentem, et non magnificastilaetitiam. Laetabuntur coram te, sicut quilaetantur in messe, sicut exsultant victores,capta praeda, quando dividunt spolia.Jugum enim oneris ejus, et virgam humeriejus, et sceptrum exactoris ejus superastisicut in die Madian. Quia omnis violentapraedatio cum tumultu, et vestimentummistum sanguine, erit in combustionem, etcibus ignis. Parvulus enim natus est nobis,et filius datus est nobis, et factus estprincipatus super humerum ejus: etvocabitur nomen ejus, Admirabilis

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3. Hymn: CHRISTE REDEMPTORMelody from Ely MS.Christe Redemptor omnium, Ex PatrePatris unice, Solus ante principium Natusineffabiliter.Tu lumen, tu splendor Patris, Tu spesperennis omnium: Intende quas funduntpreces Tui per orbem famuli.Memento salutis Auctor, Quod nostriquondam corporis, Ex illibata VirgineNascendo, formam sumpseris.Sic praesens testatur dies, Currens per annicirculum, Quod solus a sede Patris Mundisalus adveneris.Hunc caelum, terra, hunc mare, Huncomne quod in eis est, Auctorem adventustui Laudans exultat cantico.Nos quoque, qui sancto tuo Redemptisanguine sumus, Ob diem natalis tuiHymnum novum concinimus.Gloria tibi Domine, Qui natus es deVirgine, Cum Patre et Sancto Spiritu, Insempiterna saecula. Amen.

Christ, redeemer of all, born of the Father asthe Father’s only Son, born alone, beforethe beginning, in a manner beyondwords—You are the light, you are thebrightness of the Father, you are the never-dying hope of all: listen to the prayerswhich your servants throughout the worldpour out to you. Source of our salvation,remember that in your birth from the sinless

virgin you were formed as we were, takingon yourself our own body. As the year moves on in its cycle this day iseager to bear witness to this: that you camealone from the kingdom of the Father to bethe salvation of the world. The sky, theearth, the sea and all that is in them rejoiceat the coming of their creator and praise youwith song. We too, who have been redeemed by yourholy blood, sing a new hymn for the day ofyour birth. Glory to you, Lord, born of the Virgin, withthe Father and the Holy Spirit for ever.Amen.

4. Antiphon: DOMINUS DIXIT. Ps. 2Dominus dixit ad me: Filius meus es tu, egohodie genui te.Psalm 2Quare fremuerunt Gentes, et populimeditati sunt inania? Astiterunt reges terrae,et principes convenerunt in unum adversusDominum, et adversus Christum ejus.Dirumpamus vincula eorum: etprodiciamus a nobis jugum ipsorum. Quihabitat in caelis, irridebit eos: et Dorninussubsannabit eos. Tunc loquetur ad eos in iresua, et in furore suo conturbabit eos. Egoautem constitutus sum Rex ab eo super Sionmontem sanctum ejus, praedicanspraeceptum ejus. Dominus dixit ad me:Filius meus es tu, ego hodie genui te.

Postula a me, et dabo tibi Genteshereditatem tuam, et possessionem tuamterminos terrae. Reges eos in virgo ferrea, ettamquam vas figuli confringes eos. Et nuncreges, intelligite: erudimini, qui judicatisterrain. Servite Domino in timore: etexsultate ei cum tremore. Apprehenditedisciplinam, nequando irascatur Dominus,et pereatis de via juste. Cum exarserit inbrevi ire ejus, beati omnes qui confidunt ineo Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto,sicut erat in principio et nunc et semper, etin saecula saeculorum. Amen.

The Lord said to me: You are my Son, Ihave begotten you this day.Psalm 2Why are the gentiles in ferment, why are thepeoples pondering over lies? The kings ofthe earth have arisen, their princes havecome together as one against the Lord andagainst his anointed: ‘Let us burst theirbonds and throw off their yoke’. He whodwells in the heavens will deride them; theLord will pour scorn on them. Then he willspeak to them in his anger; in his rage hewill throw them into confusion. For I havebeen enthroned as king by him on Sion, hisholy mountain, to make his will known. TheLord said to me: You are my Son; today Ihave begotten you. Ask from me, and I shallgive you the gentiles as your heritage andthe ends of the earth as your possession.

You will rule kings with a rod of iron andbreak them like an earthenware pot. Andnow, you kings, understand; submit toknowledge, rulers of the earth: serve theLord with awe and worship him with dread.Receive discipline, lest you provoke theanger of the Lord and fall from the rightway. But his anger quickly passes: blessedare those who trust in him. Glory be to theFather and to the Son and to the Holy Spiritas it was in the beginning, is now and evershall be, world without end. Amen.

5. Lesson: Isaiah. Ch. 9. vv1-6.Primo tempore alleviate est terra Zabulon etterra Nephtali: et novissimo aggravate estvia maris bans Jordanem Galilaeaegentium. Populus, qui ambulabat intenebris, vidit lucem magnam: habitantibusin regione umbrae mortis, lux orta est eis.Multiplicasti gentem, et non magnificastilaetitiam. Laetabuntur coram te, sicut quilaetantur in messe, sicut exsultant victores,capta praeda, quando dividunt spolia.Jugum enim oneris ejus, et virgam humeriejus, et sceptrum exactoris ejus superastisicut in die Madian. Quia omnis violentapraedatio cum tumultu, et vestimentummistum sanguine, erit in combustionem, etcibus ignis. Parvulus enim natus est nobis,et filius datus est nobis, et factus estprincipatus super humerum ejus: etvocabitur nomen ejus, Admirabilis

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Consiliarius, Deus Fortis, Pater futurisaeculi, Princeps pacis.

In former times the land of Zebulun and theland of Naphtali were considered of noimportance, but now the land by the sea ofGalilee on the other side of the Jordan, theland of the Gentiles, has received greathonour. The people that walked in darknesshave seen a great light; on those who livedin the shadow of death light has dawned.You have made the nation prosper andincreased their joy. They rejoice at yourpresence with the joy of harvest time, withthe delight of men dividing the booty ofwar. For you have lifted the burden from hisshoulder, broken the sceptre of hisoppressor as on the day of Midian. Forevery bloodstained cloak, all the plunder ofbattle will be burnt as fuel for the fire. For achild is born for us, a Son given to us, andthe kingdom is laid on his shoulder. HisName will be Wonderful Counsellor,Mighty God, Father of the Ages, Prince ofPeace.

6. Responsory: VERBUM CAROVerbum caro factum est et habitavit innobis: et vidimus gloriam ejus, gloriamquasi Unigeniti a Patre, plenum gratiae etveritatis. In principio erat Verbum, etVerbum erat apud Deum, et Deus eratVerbum. Et vidimus. Gloria Patri, et Filio,

et Spiritui Sancto.

The Word was made flesh and made hishome among us: and we saw his glory, theglory of the only Son of the Father, full ofgrace and truth. In the beginning was theWord and the Word was with God, and theWord was God. And we saw his glory, theglory of the only Son of the Father, full ofgrace and truth.Glory be to the Father and to the Son and tothe Holy Spirit.

7. Marian Anthem:ALMA REDEMPTORIS MATERAlma Redemptoris Mater, quae pervia caeliPorta manes, Et stella maris, succurrecadenti Surgere qui curat populo: Tu quaegenuisti, Natura mirante, tuum sanctumGenitorem: Virgo prius ac posterius,Gabrielis ab ore Sumens illud Ave,peccatorum miserere.

Kindest Mother of our Redeemer, you arethe gate of heaven and the star of the sea:raise up this fallen people and come to helpthem in their cares. You gave birth to theholy one who made you, while naturelooked on in wonder: for you remained avirgin, receiving that word of salutation byGabriel’s lips. Look with kindness on allwho sin.

EST. Ps. 94Christus natus est nobis: Venite, adoremus.Psalm 94Venite, exsultemus Domino, jubilemusDeo, salutari nostro: praeoccupemusfaciem ejus in confessione, et in psalmisjubilemus ei.Christus..Quoniam Deus magnus Dominus, et Rexmagnus super omnes deos: quondam nonrepellet Dominus plebem suam: quia inmenu ejus sunt omnes fines terrae, etaltitudines montium ipse conspicit. Venite.Quoniam ipsius est mare, et ipse fecit illud,et aridam fundaverunt menus ejus: venite,adoremus, et procidamus ante Deum:ploremus coram Domino, qui fecit nos,quia ipse est Dominus Deus noster; nosautem populus ejus, et oves pascuae ejus.Christus.Hodie, si vocem ejus audieritis, noliteobdurare corda vestra, sicut inexacerbatione secundum diem tentationisin deserto: ubi tentaverunt me patres vestri,probaverunt et viderunt opera mea. Venite.Quadraginta annis proximus fui generation)huic, et dixi: Semper hi errant corde; ipsivero non cognoverunt vies me as : quibusjuravi in ire mea: Si introibunt in requiemmeam. Christus.Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto.Sicut erat in principio, et nunc, et semper, etin saecula saeculorum. Amen.

Christ is born for us today, come, let usworship.Come, let us rejoice in the Lord, let us singfor joy to God, our salvation. Let us go intohis presence in adoration, and let us singpsalms to him. Christ is born.For the Lord is God, the great one; he is agreat king above all gods. The Lord doesnot reject his people; for in his hand are theends of the earth; the heights of themountains are known to him. Come.The sea belongs to him, for he made it; hishands laid the foundations of the earth.Come, let us go into the presence of Godand adore him; let us weep before the Lordwho made us, for he is the Lord, our God.We are his people, the sheep he pastures.Christ is born.Today, if you would hear his voice, do notharden your hearts as on that bitter day oftemptation in the desert, when your fathersput me to the test, when they subjected meto their scrutiny, to see my works. Come.For forty years I was with this people, andI said: In their hearts they are alwayswandering away; indeed, they do not knowmy ways. And so I made an oath to them inmy anger, if they would enter my rest.Christ is born.Glory be to the Father and to the Son and tothe Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning,is now and ever shall be, world withoutend. Amen.

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Two antiphons from Lauds have adramatic effect provided by their use ofdialogue and repetition, reflecting theliveliness of medieval liturgy whichreceived a great stimulus in the tenthcentury from the creation of liturgicaldrama. The repeated ‘hodie’ of theMagnificat antiphon is a vivid reminder ofthe fact that in the liturgy salvation historyis made actual.

Puer natus. This Christmas carol wasespecially popular in Germany but appearsalso in a sixteenth century Herefordcollection. First found in a fourteenthcentury Benedictine Processional, it wasprobably composed for the purpose it fulfilsin this recording.

1. Sequence: LAETABUNDUSLaetabundus exsultet fidelis chorus,Alleluia: Regem regum Intactae profuditthorus, Res miranda. Angelus consiliiNatus est de Virgine, Sol de stella: Soloccasum nesciens, Stella semper rutilans,Semper clara. Sicut sidus radium ProfertVirgo Filium, Pari forma. Neque sidusradio, Neque Mater Filio Fit corrupta.Cedrus alta Libani Conformatur hyssopoValle rostra. Verbum ens Altissimi,Corporari passum est, Carne sumpta. Isaiascecinit, Synagoga meminit, Numquamtamen desinit Esse caeca. Si non sudsvatibus, Credat vel gentilibus Sibyllinis

versibus Haec praedicta. Infelix propera,Crede vel vetera: Cur darunaberis, Gensmisera? Quem docet littera Natumconsidera: Ipsum genuit Puerpera. Alleluia.

Let the choir of the faithful sing for joy,alleluia. She whom no man has known hasbrought forth the king of kings, to cause uswonder. The Angel of God’s Counsel isborn of a Virgin, the Sun born of a Star—the Sun that never sets, the Star that alwaysshines most brightly. As a star radiatinglight, so did the virgin bring forth her Son,herself remaining a virgin. As a star is notdimmed by its light, neither was thismother touched by death in the birth of herSon. The tall cedar of Lebanon has bowedlow to our valley of bitter herbs. The Wordof the Most High has submitted to a bodyand become flesh. Isaiah told of this: thepeople of the synagogue were aware of it,but remained blind. If they will not listen totheir own prophets, let them believe theSibylline verses of the gentiles, for theyforetold these things. Come, unhappy one;believe what has been told from of old.Why be cast away, a race to be pitied? Lookat him, about whom the Scriptures taught,now newly-born: a maiden has given himbirth.

Extracts from Matins2. Invitatory: CHRISTUS NATUS

Mass Chants8. Introit: DOMINUS DIXIT MidnightMassDominus dixit ad me: Filius meus es tu, egohodie genui te. Quare fremuerunt gentes: etpopuli meditati sunt inania? Gloria Patri etFilio et Spiritui Sancto. Sicut erat inprincipio et nunc et semper et in saeculasaeculorum. Amen.

The Lord said to me: You are my Son.Today I have begotten you. Why are thenations stirring and the peoples cogitatinglies?

9. KYRIE Missa IV: CunctipotensKyrie eleison. Christe eleison. Kyrieeleison.

Lord have mercy. Christ have mercy. Lordhave mercy.

10. GLORIAGloria in excelsis Deo. Et in terra paxhominibus bonae voluntatis. Laudamus te.Benedicimus te. Adoramus te.Glorificamus te. Gratias agimus tibi proptermagnam gloriam tuam. Domine Deus, Rexcaelestis, Deus Pater omnipotens. DomineFili unigenite Jesu Christe. Domine Deus,Agnus Dei, Filius Patris. Qui tollis peccatamundi, miserere nobis. Qui tollis peccatamundi, suscipe deprecationem nostram.

Qui sedes ad dexteram Patris, misererenobis. Quoniam tu solus sanctus. Tu solusDominus. Tu solus Altissimus, JesuChriste. Cum Sancto Spiritu in gloriam DeiPatris. Amen.

Glory to God in the highest. And on earthpeace to men of good will. We praise you.We bless you. We adore you. We glorifyyou. We give you thanks for your greatglory. Lord God, king of heaven, God thealmighty Father. Lord Jesus Christ, theonly-begotten Son. Lord God, Lamb ofGod, Son of the Father. Who take away thesins of the world, have mercy on us. Whotake away the sin of the world, receive ourprayer. You are seated at the right hand ofthe Father: have mercy on us. For you aloneare holy. You alone are the Lord. You aloneare the Most High, Jesus Christ, with theHoly Spirit in the glory of God the Father.Amen.

11. Gradual: OMNES DE SABAEpiphanyOmnes de Saba venient, aurum et thusdeferentes, et laudem Dominoannuntiantes. Surge, et illuminareJerusalem: quia gloria Domini super te ortaest.

All will come from Saba bringing gold andincense and proclaiming the praise of the

Lord. Arise and be enlightened, Jerusalem!For the glory of the Lord has dawned uponyou.

12. ALLELUIA Dawn MassAlleluia. Dominus regnavit, decoreminduit: induit Dominus fortitudinem, etpraecinxit se virtute.

Alleluia. The Lord is king: he has clothedhimself in beauty, he has put on strengthand girded himself with power.

13. Offertory: LAETENTUR MidnightMassLaetentur caeli, et exsultet terra ante faciemDomini: quondam venit.

Let heaven rejoice and earth be glad at thepresence of the Lord, for he comes.

14. SANCTUS Sanctus Dominus Deus Sabaoth. Plenisunt caeli et terra gloria tua. Hosanna inexcelsis. Benedictus qui venit in nomineDomini.;

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God of Hosts.Heaven and earth are full of your glory.Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he whocomes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna inthe highest.

15. AGNUS DEIAgnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi:miserere nobis/dona nobis pacem.

Lamb of God, who take away the sins of theworld, have mercy on us. Lamb of God,who take away the sins of the world, havemercy on us. Lamb of God, who take awaythe sins of the world, grant us peace.

16. Communion: IN SPLENDORIBUSMidnight MassIn splendoribus sanctorum, ex utero anteluciferum genui te.

In the splendour of the holy ones before thedaybreak I begot you.

Short Hymns & Chants17. Hymn: ANGELUS AD VIRGINEMAngelus ad Virginem subintrans inconclave Virginis formidinem demulcensinquit: Ave, Ave, Regina virginum, caeliterraeque Dominum Concipies, et pariesintacta salutem hominum. Tu porta caelifacta, medela criminum. Ad haec virgo nobilis responders inquit ei:Ancilla sum humilis omnipotentis Dei. Tibicaelesti nuntio, tanti secreti conscioConsentiens, et cupiens videre factum quodaudio; Parata sum parere Dei consilio. EjaMater Domini, quae pacem reddidistiAngelis et homini, cum Christum genuisti:

amongst us’. The melismatic quality of themusic is aptly suited to the meditative moodof Matins and permits reflection on thewords as they are sung.

The Marian anthem Alma Redemp-toris mater is sung during Advent andChristmastide and is ascribed to Herman theCripple (+1054). Originally used as a psalmantiphon at Sext on the feast of theAssumption, the Alma lost its psalmodiccharacter in the thirteenth century and cameto be sung on its own at the end of the officeof Compline.

The Mass chants are sung in the orderin which they occur during Mass.

Introit: Dominus dixit. Three Massesare sung on Christmas Day, at midnight, atdawn and during the day hours. Eachconcentrates on a different aspect of theChristmas story— at midnight, the birth ofthe Son of God. The Introit takes up thetheme introduced at Matins and reworks itin a beautifully serene IInd mode setting.The repetition of melodic patterns, as in‘Dominus’ and ‘ego’, helps emphasise themeaning of the words.

Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Agnus Dei.The earliest extant manuscripts of Missa IVdate from the tenth century, but in allprobability the music is much older. In eachpiece melodic patterns recur and the effect

is one of sober joy.Omnes de Saba. The feast of the

Epiphany, known in the East as the Feast ofLights, is older than the feast of Christmas.This gradual (text sung after the firstreading) is based on lines from Isaiah 60which suggest two of the major Epiphanythemes: light, and the gifts brought by theMagi. The Alleluia, sung before theGospel, is one of a group of less than adozen in which the melody of the alleluiasection is not woven into the verse, yet it isone of the oldest known to us.

Laetentur. Verses from psalm 95 areused at the offertory to express the joy ofcreation at the coming of the Lord and thedawn of our redemption. The communionantiphon

In Splendoribus is set in the VIthmode. The simplicity of the treatment of thewords from psalm 109 speaks eloquently ofthe wonder and awe experienced at themystery of the Incarnation.

Angelus ad Virginem. This delightfulfourteenth century account of theAnnunciation was very popular in theMiddle Ages. In Chaucer’s ‘Miller’s Tale’ itwas sung of an evening by Nicholas, theClerk of Oxenford, to the accompanimentof his ‘gay suatrye’.

Ecce nomen. an attractive example ofthe medieval fondness for expressingtheology in rhyme and setting it to music.

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CHRISTMAS CHANT

The celebration of the birth of Christhas inspired artists, poets and musicians formany centuries. Some of the more popularliturgical chants of the season have alreadybeen recorded, and those chosen for thisrecording are taken mainly from the Officeof Matins and the Mass. A few extra-liturgical pieces are included. Thecollaboration of the monks of Prinknashand nuns of Stanbrook here provides anopportunity for some antiphonal singing notusually possible to the communities in theirseparate monasteries. It enables them topresent an original and dramatic renderingof the antiphon ‘Hodie’ taken from IIVespers of Christmas.

The record opens with Laetabundus.This sequence (hymn following the alleluiabefore the Gospel) was written in thetwelfth century and is sometimes attributedto St Bernard or Adam of St Victor. The useof rhyme gives the text a flowinggracefulness. The contemporary musicalsetting maintains an F major tonality,exploiting different ranges within theverses.

Extracts from Matins. The long nightoffice of Matins is made up of manyelements. A selection of the most importantis given here. The Invitatory, so calledbecause it is an invitation to worship,

occurs near the beginning of Matins. TheRule of Benedict specifies the use of psalm94, settings of which show Gregorianrecitative at its most elaborate. In thethirteenth century Worcester Antiphonerthere are over a hundred invitatoryantiphons and thirteen special tones for thepsalm verses. The ancient character of theinvitatory is shown by the fact that the textis taken not from the Vulgate (St Jerome’sLatin translation of the scriptures) but fromthe older Itala version. The division intoverses is different, and the phrase ‘quondamnon repellet Dominus plebem’ is not foundin the Vulgate.

Christe Redemptor. This hymnprobably dates from the sixth century andfollows the Ambrosian pattern, focusingattention on the mystery of salvationinaugurated by Christ’s birth. The musiccomes from a thirteenth century manuscriptcompiled at Ely.

Dominus dixit is the first antiphon ofMatins and uses a line of psalm 2particularly appropriate to the feast. Thewords ‘filius’ and ‘genui’ are central to thecomposer’s interpretation of the text.

Lesson and Responsory. A rector singsthe ancient prophecy of Isaiah, ‘Unto us achild is born’, using a tone from theWorcester Antiphoner. The choir thenresponds with the words of St John’sGospel, ‘the Word became flesh and dwelt

Tuum exora Filium ut se nobis propitiumExhibeat, et defeat peccata: praestansauxilium Vita frui beata post hoc exsilium.

To the Virgin an angel came: as he enteredthe room he calmed her fear and said:Hail! Hail queen of virgins! You willconceive the Lord of heaven and earth. Noman will touch you, yet you will give birthto the salvation of mankind. You willbecome the gate of heaven, sin’s healing.To this the noble Virgin replied: I am alowly servant of the all-powerful God.Aware as I am of this great secret, I cantell you, heavenly one, that I give myassent, and long to see that which I haveheard come about. Most readily shall Iobey the will of God.Let us rejoice with you, Mother of the Lord:you brought peace to men and angels whenyou gave birth to Christ. Entreat your Sonto reveal himself to us in his mercy anddestroy our sins: his help will bring usthrough this exile to enjoy the blessing oflife.

18. Anthem: ECCE NOMENEcce nomen Domini Emmanuel, quodannuntiatum est per Gabriel, hodie apparuitin Israel: per Mariam Virginem est natusRex. Eia Virgo Deum genuit, ut divinevoluit clementia. In Bethlehem natus est, etin Jerusalem visus est, et in omnem terram

honorificatus est Rex Israel.

Behold! The Name of the Lord, Emmanuel,made known by Gabriel, has appeared inIsrael this day: he is born as king, of theVirgin Mary. Joy! A virgin has given birthto God; the kindness of God so willed it. Hehas been born in Bethlehem; he has beenseen in Jerusalem; he has received homagethroughout the whole earth, the king ofIsrael.

19. Antiphon: QUEM VIDISTISQuem vidistis, pastores? dicite: annuntiatenobis, in ferris quis apparuit? Natumvidimus, et choros Angelorum collaudantesDominum, alleluia, alleluia.

Shepherds, whom have you seen? Tell us,who has appeared on earth? We have seen anew born baby, and choirs of angels singingpraise to the Lord, alleluia, alleluia.

20. Antiphon:ANGELUS AD PASTORESAngelus ad pastores ait: Annuntio vobisgaudium magnum: quia natus est vobishodie Salvator mundi, alleluia.

The angel said to the shepherds: I bring younews of great joy. Today is born for you theSaviour of the world, alleluia.

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21. Antiphon: HODIEHodie Christus natus est: hodie Salvatorapparuit: hodie in terra canunt Angelis,laetantur Archangeli: hodie exsultant justi,dicentes: Gloria in excelsis Deo, alleluia.

Today Christ is born, today the Saviour hasappeared, today angels sing on earth andarchangels rejoice; today the just are gladand say: ‘Glory to God in the highest,alleluia’.

22. Recessional: PUER NATUSPuer natus in Bethlehem, alleluia: Undegaudet Jerusalem, alleluia, alleluia.In cordis jubilo Christum natum adoremus,Cum novo cantico.Assumpsit carnem Filius, alleluia, DeiPatris altissimus. Per Gabrielem nuntium,alleluia, Virgo concepit Filium. Tamquamsponsus de thalamo, alleluia, ProcessitMatris utero. Hic jacet in praesepio,alleluia, Qui regnat sine terming. EtAngelus pastoribus, alleluia, Revelat quodsit Dominus. Reges de Saba veniunt,alleluia, Aurum, thus, myrrham offerunt.Intrantes domum invicem, alleluia, Novumsalutant Principem. Laudetur sanctaTrinitas, alleluia, Deo dicamus gratias,alleluia, alleluia.

A child is born in Bethlehem, alleluia, andso Jerusalem is glad, alleluia, alleluia.

In the joy of our hearts let us adore the newborn Christ, with a new song.The Father’s Son has taken flesh, alleluia.He is the Son of God Most High, alleluia,alleluia.As was revealed through Gabriel, alleluia, avirgin has conceived a Son, alleluia,alleluia.As bridegroom from his bridal room,alleluia, he came forth from his mother’swomb, alleluia, alleluia.In a manger crib he lies, alleluia, he whosereign shall never end, alleluia, alleluia.An Angel to the shepherds came, alleluia,revealing that he is the Lord, alleluia,alleluia.The kings of Saba make their way, alleluia,to give gold, frankincense and myrrh,alleluia, alleluia.In the joy of this great birth, alleluia, let ussing blessings to the Lord, alleluia,alleluia.Praise to the Holy Trinity, alleluia; let usproclaim our thanks to God, alleluia,alleluia.In the joy of our hearts let us adore thenew born Christ with a new song.

CHRISTMAS CHANT—Traditional Latin Plainsong

1 Sequence Laetabundus [3’14”]Extracts from Matins:

2 Invitatory Christus Natus Est. ps. 94 [9’38”]3 Hymn Christe Redemptor Melody from Ely MS [3’28”]4 Antiphon Dominus Dixit Ps.2 [4’19”]5. Lesson Isaiah. Ch.9. vv1-6 [3’11”]6 Responsory Verbum Caro [5’22”]7 Marian Anthem Alma Redemptoris Mater [1’57”]

Mass Chants:8 Introit Dominus Dixit Midnight Mass [3’02”]9 Kyrie Missa IV: Cunctipotens [1’59”]10. Gloria [3’51”]11 Gradual Omnes de Saba Epiphany [2’45”]12 Alleluia Dawn Mass [2’53”]13. Offertory Laetentur Midnight Mass [1’20”]14 Sanctus [1’41”]15 AgnusDei [1’20”]16 Communion In Splendoribus Midnight Mass [0’49”]

Short Hymns & Chants:17. Hymn: Angelus Ad Virginem [3’18”]18 Anthem: Ecce Nomen [1’13”]19 Antiphon: Quem Vidistis [0’48”]20. Antiphon: Angelus Ad Pastores [0’47”]21. Antiphon: Hodie [1’08”]22. Recessional: Puer Natus [4’34”]

Total duration: 62’48”

2 15

The monks & nuns of Prinknash & Stanbrook Abbeys

The monks of Prinknash were joined by the Bishops Cannings Schola for this recording

Choirmaster Fr Charles WatsonAll text translations © Stanbrook AbbeyRecorded at Stanbrook Abbey, June 1987

Recorded & Produced by Gef Lucena (Saydisc)& David Wilkins (Valley Recordings)

Cover illustrations by courtesy of Malvern PrioryBooklet designed by Genny Lucena

Recorded and edited using CLUE system, Sony PCM 701Digital encoder, AKG C414 microphones in crossed

hypercardioid configuration.

Printed and made in EC

ISRC: GBAJX87369 01 to 22

©1987, Saydisc Records, EnglandSAYDISC RECORDS, THE BARTON, INGLESTONE COMMON,

BADMINTON, S. GLOS GL9 1BX, ENGLANDFax: 01454 299858 Email: saydisc@aol.com

website: www.saydisc.com

Some of our SAYDISC unusual, traditional & exotic albums and Amon Ra authentic performances onoriginal instruments. Visit www.saydisc.com or write for more details and suppliers:CD-SDL 325 Like Waves Against The Sand - trad music from China - pipa, erhu, yanqin, percussionCD-SDL 327 Enchanted Carols - musical boxes, handbells, handbell choir, street pianos, brass bandCD-SDL 333 Ringing Clear - Handbell tune and change ringing in various stylesCD-SDL 343 On Kielder Side - Northumbrian Pipe music from Kathryn TickellCD-SDL 353 Fleur Du Jura - Parisian style cafe music from Danielle Pauly - French accordion QueenCD-SDL 358 Keep The Home Fires Burning - music of the 1st World War from the original recordings CD-SDL 360 Under The Greenwood Tree - Carols and dances from Thomas Hardy manuscripts, etcCD-SDL 367 Kurokami- Traditional music of Japan -koto/shakuhachi/shamisenCD-SDL 373 Music From The Time Of The Spanish Armada -The York Waits renaissance town bandCD-SDL 374 The Music Of The Hurdy Gurdy - Nigel Eaton & friends—bourreés to VivaldiCD-SDL 376 Disappearing World - Unique recordings of music from 17 endangered cultures CD-SDL 378 Church Bells Of England - 16 famous peals, Cotswolds, Bristol incl. St. Pauls, Westminster CD-SDL 383 Sing Lustily & With Good Courage - Favourite 18th c. hymns - Maddy Prior/ Carnival BandCD-SDL 387 Traditional Arabic Music - Hassan Erraji with Arabesque - ud, nay, saz, darbouka, bandir, etcCD-SDL 388 Music Of the Andes - Caliche - pan-pipes, charango, quena, bombo drum, etcCD-SDL 391 Traditional Songs of Scotland - Ray Fisher with bagpipe, violin, accordion etcCD-SDL 393 English Country Dances - The Broadside Band - favourite Playford dancesCD-SDL 396 Vocal Traditions of Bulgaria - exciting music from the Archives of Radio SofiaCD-SDL 400 English National Songs - Lucie Skeaping & John Potter with The Broadside BandCD-SDL 402 Traditional Songs of England - Jo Freya with fiddles, concertina, hurdy-gurdy, viols, etcCD-SDL 403 Spirit of Polynesia - The David Fanshawe trilogy of traditional Pacific music, volume 1CD-SDL 405 Sea Songs & Shanties - from the last days of sail -Bob Roberts, Cadgwith Fishermen, etcCD-SDL 406 Traditional Songs of Wales - Siwsann George with Welsh triple harp, crwth, hurdy-gurdy, etcCD-SDL 408 The Victorian Musical Box - numerous rare disc and cylinder musical boxesCD-SDL 409 Songs and Dances From Shakespeare - The Broadside Band and singersCD-SDL 413 Cockney Kings of Music Hall - the original recordingsCD-SDL 417 A Celtic Christmas - from Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Cornwall and BritannyCD-SDL 419 Old English Nursery Rhymes - Vivien Ellis / Tim Laycock and The Broadside BandCD-SDL 422 Compline & Other Chant: Latin & English, nuns of Stanbrook/monks of Prinknash AbbeysCD-SDL 427 Folk Music of Tibet - field recordings of songs and instrumental musicCD-SDL 429 Carillon Bells of Britain - Kilmarnock, Aberdeen, Perth, Bournville, LoughboroughCD-SDL 430 The Celtic Harp - The Celtic heritage of harp music from Wales, Ireland and ScotlandCD-SAR 10 Clarinet Collection - Alan Hacker (historic clarinets) with keyboard, etcCD-SAR 18 Guitar Collection - Nigel North (historic guitars) with Maggie Cole (keyboards)CD-SAR 53 Music For Mandolin - Alison Stevens - mandolin duets, mandolin & fortepianoCD-SAR 62 A Golden Treasury of Elizabethan MusicCD-SAR 63 A Golden Treasury of Medieval MusicCD-SAR 69 A Golden Treasury of Ancient Instruments

STEREO CD-SDL 369

DIGITALRECORDING

ChristmasChant

Traditional Latin Plainchantfor Christmas from the

monks of Prinknash and the

nuns of Stanbrook Abbeys

© 1987 SAYDISC RECORDS, THE BARTON, INGLESTONE COMMON, BADMINTON, S.GLOS. GL9 1BX, ENGLAND.

Fax: +(0)1454 299 858 E-Mail: Saydisc@aol.com Website: www.saydisc.comMade in EC

CD-SDL 369

CD

-SD

L369

1 Sequence Laetabundus [3’14”]Extracts from Matins:

2 Invitatory Christus Natus Est. ps. 94 [9’38”]

3 Hymn Christe Redemptor Melody from Ely MS [3’28”]

4 Antiphon Dominus Dixit Ps.2 [4’19”]5. Lesson Isaiah. Ch.9. vv1-6 [3’11”]6 Responsory Verbum Caro [5’22”]7 Marian Anthem

Alma Redemptoris Mater [1’57”]Mass Chants:

8 Introit Dominus Dixit Midnight Mass [3’02”]

9 Kyrie Missa IV: Cunctipotens [1’59”]10 Gloria [3’51”]

11 Gradual Omnes de Saba Epiphany [2’45”]12 Alleluia Dawn Mass [2’53”]13 Offertory Laetentur Midnight Mass [1’20”]14 Sanctus [1’41”]15 AgnusDei [1’20”]16 Communion In Splendoribus

Midnight Mass [0’49”]Short Hymns & Chants:

17 Hymn: Angelus Ad Virginem [3’18”]18 Anthem: Ecce Nomen [1’13”]19 Antiphon: Quem Vidistis [0’48”]20 Antiphon: Angelus Ad Pastores [0’47”]21 Antiphon: Hodie [1’08”]22 Recessional: Puer Natus [4’34”]

Total duration: 62’48”

ChristmasChant

Christm

as Chant - P

rinknash and Stanbrook Abbeys

CD

-SD

L369

Christm

as Chant - P

rinknash and Stanbrook Abbeys

TM

Traditional Latin Plainchant for Christmas from the monks ofPrinknash and the nuns of Stanbrook Abbeys