06 Dec Review: Noel, Noel
Les Délices welcomes the festive season with “Noel, Noel” (Dec. 7)
FROM CLEVELANDCLASSICAL.COM:
“Once December kicks in, an almost overwhelming number of holiday programs pop up around Northeast Ohio. But Les Délices’ offering should draw your attention.
While other festive concerts may create the atmosphere of a bustling party by the fireplace, “Noel, Noel” is like observing a snowy evening from the warmth of the indoors. This is music best enjoyed in quiet contentment, and especially live — so it’s no surprise that the early music ensemble brought back this signature program for three performances this month.
On December 7 at West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, the six-member group presented a lovely ninety-minute program, which is also available on CD and via streaming until the end of the year.
There’s much to explore beyond the traditional selections, but there are a number of familiar tunes — a highlight being The Holly and The Ivy. Soprano Elena Mullins Bailey began the piece accompanied only by a steady viola da gamba note from Rebecca Landell, one of many moments to appreciate Bailey’s sweet and beautifully supported voice…”