The Coming of Christ is the first of a series of three CDs using the exquisite music of Gregorian chant to describe and illuminate the life of Christ. Sung by the Gloriae Dei Cantores Schola and conducted by Dr. Mary Berry, CBE, these reknowned experts bring a wealth of experience and worship to the interpretation of the chant. Well-known pieces alternate with numerous antiphons to bring us closer to the time of Christ's birth and early childhood. The prophetic announcements, the longing and anticipation of Christ's birth as well as the joy of the angels' message are all vividly portrayed in the chant. Chant-based organ works by French composers Alexandre Guilmant and Charles-Marie Widor frame this program celebrating the life of Christ. These are the first recordings to be made in the superb acoustics of the Church of the Transfiguration, a modern-day abbey stone church.
