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Our Review

The Early Light Consort's holiday CD is an embraceable instrumental stunner. The album's name, Christmas Past says a lot--this early music offering encompasses the best seasonal memories in a classic, classy way. The consort consists of principal Werner John (recorders, flute, crumhorn, double ocarina, pan flute, percussion) and five other superb musicians (Robert Anders on guitar, lute; Jud Barry on oboe; Beth Youngblood-Petersen on violin; Julie Mascarella on harpsichord; Judith Glixon Kutt on cello). In addition, Eugene Friesen makes a special guest appearance on cello. Marvelous music!

First, I must admit that I liked Werner John before I ever heard a note. The fellow emphasizes instruments that are special favorites of mine--I love tooling around on recorders and double ocarinas. In addition, the guy makes Native American Flutes, another passion. So how could Christmas Past not be a winner?

Christmas Past lived up to my very high expectations. The musicianship is remarkable, and the recording quality is top notch, too. The strings and wind instruments seem to burst with clarity; you are right there in the room with them. The mix of early music instruments is such a great match for the holiday season-- warm and emotive, bright and joyous. I especially loved the deep voices of the oboe and cellos. The music selection is excellent, too; the nine tracks largely feature ancient carols, including terrific gems like "A Rose Unfolding" (Praetorius' "Es Is Ein Ros") and a marvelous closing "Angels Rejoice!" medley of seven carols.

What a delightful album! Consider pulling the Early Light Consort's Christmas Past into your holiday future!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2005)

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From the liner notes:

The Early Light Consort:
Werner John: recorders, flutes, crumhorn, double ocarina, pan flute, percussion
Robert Anders: guitar, lute
Jud Barry: oboe
Beth Youngblood-Petersen: violin
Julie Mascarella: harpsichord
Judith Glixon Kutt: cello

Featuring special guest:
Eugene Friesen: cello

Concept and producer: Werner John

From the Web site:

Since 1980 Werner John has been totally absorbed in the rich and varied world of the wooden flute. A versatile performer and recording artist, he has produced a number of beautiful CDs featuring recorders, wooden transverse flutes, Native American flutes and ocarinas.

CHRISTMAS PAST features the Early Light musicians with special guest Eugene Friesen of the Paul Winter Consort in beautiful new arrangements of carols and classics. Christmas with a peaceful Early Music sound - instruments include recorders, flute, guitar, lute, oboe, violin, cellos, and harpsichord. Perhaps you will join the thousands who count this one among their Christmas favorites!

Early Light Consort

Christmas Past

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Track List