Lauda per la Nativita del Signore (Laud to the Nativity)

Vocal Score

By Ottorino Respighi

Respighi's "Lauda per la Nativita' del Signore" is one of his more successful neo-"baroque" compositions and is not performed as often as it should. Though I ordered this score to use in my thesis research and not for performance, I would highly recommend it for choirs of great...

ability and artistry looking for obscure repertoire. A real gem!

I had the pleasure of performing the soprano section of this beautiful musical score with my university choir several years ago. This was the most challenging choral work I have ever performed and was extremely rewarding. The score tells the story of the nativity from the view of the shepherds...

and includes solos for the parts of Mary and the angel, as well. There is much contrast in mood throughout the work from solemn reflection to great joy in the climactic gloria chorus. The lovely piano part alone is worth getting this score. I hope that one day I will be able to find a recording of this masterpiece by Respighi. Highly recommended!

This lovely Christmas choral work is not as well known as it should be. It is somewhat challenging for an amateur choir, and calls for a soprano with the technique to float a pianissimo B flat (I think!) The entire work is sumptuous, but the final movement is absolutely incandescent...

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