Each piece on this recording possesses the magical quality to teach us how to live: "Amazing Grace," which was born out of human despair, shows us that faith, hope, and belief can help even the most darkened spirit. Morten Lauridsen's "O magnum mysterium" shows us in sound the awe and wonder of things we cannot explain but can experience. The stunningly simple setting by Benjamin Britten of "A New Year Carol" possesses a sheer beauty that causes the listener to see a much simpler world.

This recording is the first in the GIA Choral Works series and embodies the highest possible standards of performance and recording. The choir Anam Cara, founded by noted author and conductor James Jordan from Westminster Choir College of Rider University, takes its name from the Celtic phrase for "soul mate." This choir not only shares tremendous musical talent but also possesses a spiritual connection to one another that results in a choral blend of such beauty and magnitude one can't help but be transfixed.