Recorded Music Society

We heard a variety of music, from very early carols and composers, to the 20th century. The evening began with the carole Stille Nacht, recorded in 1973 in the Notre Dame, Paris. This was followed by There were Shepherds Abiding from Handel's Messiah. Three pieces from Hindemith's Tuttifantchen - music for Childrens' Christmas made a pleasant contrast - Tanz der Holzpuppen, Melodrama and Schleisslied.

John Rutter, born in London in 1945, is a composer with a special interest in composing for young people. From his Christmas album we heard Gabriel's Message and Donkey Carol.

Ariel Ramirez, the Argentinian composer, is best known for his Misa Criolla but he also composed Navidad Nuestra, a series of songs about the nativity characterised by different Latin American dance rhythms. Three of these were chosen.

Another contrast followed with early carols from Magdalen College, and an unusual organ solo Under the Mistletoe, played by Carlo Curly. The composer Bach was chosen by three members. Among the works played was music from his Christmas Oratorio. The programme ended in the 20th century with Mel Torme singing The Christmas Song.

Following the music, members enjoyed a seasonal buffet organised by the ladies of the Society.

A vote-of-thanks was proposed by the vice chairman to everyone who had contributed to making the evening so successful. He ended the evening by wishing us all a happy Christmas and a healthy and peaceful new year.

The next meeting will be on January 5, 2006, when Mr John Edwards will present a programme Come Dancing. SK