The project title 'Carols after a Plague' was intentionally ambiguous, allowing the twelve commissioned composers to interpret 'plague' as either the pandemic or ongoing societal issues like racism and gun violence.
Interpretation
None of the pieces on this album are 'carols' in the traditional sense; instead, they are contemporary responses to current issues, aiming to address wounds and bring people together.
Performer Biography
Donald Nally, the conductor of The Crossing, has commissioned over 180 works and has 28 recordings with the choir, including two Grammy Awards and seven nominations.
Album & Artwork
The album's cover art, titled 'The New Normal', along with other artworks like 'Astronaut Terrier' and 'Big Fish', was created by Sasan Pix.
Performer Biography
The Crossing, conducted by Donald Nally, is a Grammy-winning professional chamber choir dedicated to new music, with nearly 150 commissioned premieres addressing social, environmental, and political issues.
Composition History
This album, 'Carols after a Plague', is a project of twelve commissioned works that premiered at The Crossing @ Christmas 2021 concerts.
Recording & Production
The album was recorded over several days in August 2021 and August 2022 at St. Peter's Church in the Great Valley, Malvern, Pennsylvania.
