DESCRIPTIONS

Review ...beautiful voice and stunning interpretive skills a magnificent singer different Christmas CD will surely inspire repeat listenings highly recommended. -- Classical Voice North Carolina, December 21, 2002, John Houston's voice is generous CD tells a story of love that does not deny pain a true story for any season. -- The News Tribune, December 04, 2001 Jen Graves, arts critic Janeanne Houston's clear, richly shaded soprano illuminates this unusual collection of 20th-century British and American songs . thoughtful choices, lovely singing -- Seattle Times, November 23, 2001, Melinda Bargreen So delicate, so profound the soprano voice that belongs to Janeanne Houston! -- Carol Swanson, ChristmasReviews.com From the Artist This collection reflects a long held and lasting interest in the marriage of poetry with song. The texts of these songs relate to Christmas, incarnation, birth, joy, wonder, and the prophecy of Christ's death and resurrection. None of the songs has a traditional melody, but some have archaic texts. They represent the exemplary work of 20th Century British and American composers and mystics. As the year 2001 marks the centenary of the birth of Gerald Finzi, it gives me special pleasure to include to songs from his splendid work Dies Natalis. The title of this recording is excerpted from Thomas Traherne's poem The Rapture used in that suite which is also scored for high voice with string orchestra. I hope this music brings as much joy to you as it has to me. Peace on Earth - Janeanne Houston Recorded July 21 and 22, 2001 in Lagerquist Concert Hall, Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, Wa.