Sacred Songs

CD Details

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This lovely CD features Renée Fleming singing religious music in an unaffected, lovely manner. Many favorites are here: both the Bach/Gounod and Schubert versions of “Ave Maria,” each offered with long breaths and soft tone; “Rejoice Greatly” from Messiah, delivered with virtuosity and gleaming sound, and “He Shall Feed His Flock,” also from Messiah, sung in a smooth, laid-back manner. Bits of the Fauré Requiem and Poulenc Gloria are welcome, as is the gorgeous “L’Adieu des Bergers” from L’Enfance du Christ. In the prayer from Humperdinck’s Hansel und Gretel, Fleming is joined by the splendid Susan Graham, and a version of “Amazing Grace” features Mark O’Connor on violin. Two excerpts from Mozart’s Mass in C Minor, pieces by Reger and Franck, and a few surprises round out this devotional CD. –Robert Levine

Product Description

Renee Fleming, America’s Beautiful voice, follows the phenomenal success of Haunted Heart with an inspiring collection of her favorite sacred and spiritual repertoire. Songs include “Ave Maria,” “Laudate Dominum,” ” and “Panis “Angelicus.” Violinist Mark O’Connor joins her for a special performance of Amazing Grace. Fleming is accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Andreas Delfs.