I recently completed a long road trip which gave me the opportunity to listen through the set of four CD's several times. The clarity of the voices, the rich sound of the instruments and the variety of settings for Luther's music is tremendous. The period instruments are especially beautiful as they allow us to hear the music as the composer did. Most of all the content rivets our attention on Jesus Christ as our only Lord and Savior. God's Word of Law and Gospel is clearly presented and the distinction between the two is dramatic. In an age when much of modern music turns people in on themselves, Luther's music directs to a gracious and merciful God who loves us and gave His only begotten Son into death for us. This is a powerful antidote for the narcissism of today and every generation. Luther's catechetical hymns are an excellent way of teaching the faith and recalling what we have learned. This is a great devotional aid. &
—Timothy Scharr, Pastor Trinity Lutheran Church Nashville, Illinois
A monumental achievement of Concordia Publishing House—For the first time ever, all of Luther's music, not only his hymns but his ballads, carols, chants, and songs--have been recorded and made available as a boxed set. The collection, on 4 CDs, features the music not just in big chorale productions, but in performances in English featuring period instruments and young classical singers. The result is stunning, a reminder that Luther was not only a great theologian but a great musical artist.
I have been listening to the music for much of yesterday and hearing all of Luther's music together, most of which I had never heard before, was eye-opening and ear-opening. While some of the songs are stirring, like "A Mighty Fortress," others are joyously serene. While Luther's music rewards the closest attention, especially for the lyrics, it also works well as a calming backdrop to a busy day. Interspersed are readings from Luther's quite extensive comments on the value of music and the arts. (No, Luther did not just take over "bar tunes"--the term "bar form" refers to a musical structure, not something sung in a tavern.)
—Dr. Gene Edward Veith Milwaukee, Wisconsin |