The Sunday School Choir of the Moscow Representation Church of the Holy Trinity-St. Sergius Monastery has been given high marks by us before (see cat. No. B120). On this Paschal CD they demonstrate the same high level of choral sound, near-impeccable intonation, clear diction, and expressive nuances, incorporating the best traditions of Russian Orthodox liturgical singing in Moscow, and in Russia generally. This is credit, no doubt, to the entire structure of religious and musical education that has been established at this urban monastery, headed in the choral realm by the Chief Choir Director Vladimir Gorbik (see his CDs: our Cat. Nos. B069, B114, B116, B117, D132, D134, D139). Over the years, in addition to his professional mens choir, he has built up choirs made up of the monastic brethren, lay parishioners, and children of the parish, led by capable assistants, who impart musical training to those who desire it. This is not only re-building the traditions of sacred Orthodox singing ruined by decades of Communism, but also building for the future! On this CD, the choir of approximately 20 childrens voices vibrantly sing the standard Paschal Matins and Liturgy hymns of in the Moscow tradition, mostly in three-part harmony, but some in unison and two-part chant. Their singing is not only a joy to listen to but is also an inspiration to all who work with childrens voices, showing the high level of excellence that can be achieved in a parish setting, given the proper vision and leadership. The titles are in Russian only.--V.M.
