November 29, 2021

• A Dash of Holiday Music

  If you are a Christmas music junkie, but tired of hearing the same old arrangements, then this follow-up to Navona's 2016 Dashing
  is for you.  Vol. 2-More Sounds from the Season (Navona 6374) is a digital download release featuring new arrangements of familiar carols as well as new pieces for the season by a host of composers.

  There are two fun new orchestral miniatures like the opening Christmas Wayfarer by Sarah Wallin Huff and a Sleigh Ride by David Solomons.  Some new versions of familiar carols (Good King Wenceslas--one for solo piano, and later one for solo cello; Silent Night; God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman; and Lo How A Rose.  The latter features cellist Elizabeth J. Start who also is heard in a little medley (Three Ships and Three Kings) and in a brief performance of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.  The second part of the album features guitar versions of Carol of the Bells and Greensleeves performed by Alan Rinehart.  He also explores some global music with a French tune by Michel Corrette and a villancico by Augustin Barrios.  There is some Vince Guaraldi in the mix and things come to a close with an arrangement for organ and brass from Bach's Christmas Oratorio.  

  A good mix of classical pieces and familiar carols in interesting new dress and arrangements will make this a collection worth adding to your Spotify Holiday playlist.

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