Our Review
I smile as I listen to Palm Court Christmas. It is engaging, fun, and unfolds gracefully, with each little orchestral surprise more fetching than the last. It begins with an unassuming O Tannenbaum, which gains momentum and emotional mass as it gracefully and seemlessly segues into a lively Bring a Torch Janette, Isabella.
Although the Miami Palm Courtiers have chosen to stick with traditional selections, they have fortified them with novel arrangements and lively pacing. Arranged primarily by James Carlson (although I was particularly pleased by the Joplinesque Jingle Bells, arranged by Charles Lindberg), this CD's integration is obviously the work of thoughtful and talented musicians.
The musicianship stands out without overpowering the fun of this record, just as each surprising musical turn is followed by a flash of recognition of the appropriateness of the chosen phrasing. Bearing a tremendous musical range and depth, the work reminds me of a brightly colored painting, with its contrasting colors drawing attention to each detail.
But most of all are feelings of admiration and respect, that this group of Music Professors from the University of Miami in Ohio has chosen to put their talents and their ideas to the test.
I hope this is what they are teaching their students.
--Richard Banks
(Reviewed in 1999)
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Miami Palm Courtiers
Palm Court Christmas
Artist link
Label: Platinum CD
Length: 55 minutes
Genre: Classical
Release: 1999
Track List
| Song Title |
|---|
| O Tannenbaum |
| Bring A Torch Janette Isabella |
| Hark the Herald Angels Sing |
| Jingle Bells |
| In Dulci Jubilo |
| I Saw Three Ships Sailing |
| White Christmas |
| We Wish You A Merry Christmas |
| It Came Upon A Midnight Clear |
| Slient Night |
| Adeste Fidelis |
| O Holy Night |
| Joy to the World |
| Winter Wonderland |