"Christus Natus (2014)" by Saunder Choi- Philippine Madrigal Singers

Christus Natus (2014)
*world premiere
Performed by the Philippine Madrigal Singers
Mark Anthony Carpio, choirmaster
"In Excelsis" concert
December 21, 2014
Cultural Center of the Philippines
A jubilant celebration of Christ's birth that combines the traditional Latin texts Hodie Christus natus est and Gaudete with reworked quotations from J.M. Neale's English version of the traditional German/Latin carol In Dulci Jubilo.
The piece starts with a joyous wash of sound that announces the birth of Christ. A texture of 'bells' follows, above which a choir of angels sing 'Good Christian Men Rejoice' that is reworked in a style reminiscent of an early Renaissance lilt, inflection, and flavor. Text from the verses of Gaudete introduces a reverent, lyrical section that eventually leads to an explosive celebration of voices.