JAN DISMAS ZELENKA (1679-1745): Missa Nativitatis Domini in D, ZWV 8, Dixit Dominus in D, ZWV 68, Magnificat in D, ZWV 108.

Description: A rich, full and celebratory atmosphere inhabits all three of these works from 1705 (Magnificat) and 1726 with a full orchestral complement - flutes, oboes, bassoon, trumpets and drums along with the strings. The Sanctus, Benedictus and Agnus Dei were missing from the manuscript and are replaced by those from the Missa Charitatis of 1727. Only the Magnificat has any current CD competition. Katia Plaschka (soprano), Anne Bierwirth (alto), Christian Dietz (tenor), Markus Flaig (bass-baritone), Marburg Bach Choir, L'arpa festante; Nicolo Sokoli.