VocalEssence – Philip Brunelle, artistic director

Clarion CLR931CD

The world premiere recording of Carol Barnett and Marisha Chamberlain's bluegrass mass — a joyful affirmation of life expressed in sophisticated choral sound and jubilant bluegrass harmonies written especially for the VocalEssence Ensemble Singers and bluegrass band Monroe Crossing. Plus ten American masterworks spanning the centuries, originally recorded for the national radio program Saint Paul Sunday, from Billings to Bolcom and beyond.

The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass
Carol Barnett, composer
Marisha Chamberlain, librettist

1. Ballad Refrain
2. Kyrie
3. Ballad, First Verse
4. Gloria
5. Ballad, Second Verse and Refrain
5. Credo
7. Sanctus
8. Ballad, Third & Fourth Verses and Refrain
9. Agnus Dei
10. Interlude: "Art Thou Weary?"
11. Benediction
12. Conclusion

13. O Praise the Lord of Heaven (William Billings)
14. The Paper Reeds by the Brooks (Randall Thompson)
15. Beneath These Alien Stars (Libby Larsen)
16. The Day Is Done (Stephen Paulus)
17. I Cannot Dance, O Lord (Aaron Jay Kernis)
18. Sing, My Soul, His Wondrous Love (Ned Rorem)
19. Heritage (William Bolcom)
20. Zuni Sunrise Song (Brent Michael Davids)
21. Water Night (Eric Whitacre)
22. My Soul's Been Anchored (Moses Hogan)