The Swiss Choral Tradition – Choral Folk Music MH (52/1984)

MUSICA HELVETICA (52/1984) "La Chanson du Rhône" Choir with its conductor Jean Daetwyler (2nd from left) swissmusic

Choral folk singing in Switzerland reflects the linguistic and cultural diversity of this country.

Each of the four main regions is rich in its own choral tradition. This edition’s programme ranges from Romantsch and roundelays to yodel and youth choirs.

Musical content

1. “Genève chante” Mixed Choir: Tout simplement
(E. Jacques-Dalcroze)
Claude Yvoire, conductor
2. Ligia Grischa Male Choir of Ilanz: Il paun palus – Hard-earned Bread
(G. Schmid von Grüneck)
Ernst Schweri, conductor
3. Vos da Locarno Choir: Son vegnü da Montebel – I’ve come from Montebello
(Trad.)
Fernando Bonetti, conductor
4. “Luzerner Singer” (Lucerne Singers): O du liebs Aengeli – My Dear Little Angel
(Trad.)
Hansruedi Willisegger, conductor
5. Schötze Choir of Stein: Am Jock sim silbrige Hochzig – Jock’s Silver Wedding
(Trad.)
Hansueli Wälte, conductor
6. Combined Yodeling Choirs of Unterwalden: Aelggi-Juitz (natural yodel)
(Trad.)
Edy Gasser, conductor
7. Emmental Yodeling Choir, Konolfingen: Emmentaler Kuhreihen – Cow’s Roundelays
(O. Schmalz)
Heinz Rothen, conductor
8. Wohlhusen Youth Choir: Aelplertanz – Alpine Herdsmen’s Dance
(T. Zyböri, arr. H. Waldvogel)
Josef Scheidegger, conductor
9. La Chanson du Rhône Choir: Le Rhône danse
(J. Daetwyler / A. Theytaz)
Jean Daetwyler, conductor

Production information

Musica Helvetica MH 52. The Swiss Choral Tradition. Choral Folk Music. Produced 1984 for SBC / SRI by Lance Tschannen.

Background information

Switzerland is a small alpine nation shaped and influenced by great cultural cross-currents that have swept through Europe over centuries. Out of elements of diversity, the people of this country have forged a distinctly Swiss identity. And music is one of its most eloquent expressions. “Musica Helvetica” explores different facets of music in Switzerland from its earliest beginnings to the latest works of modern Swiss composers, from folk music to rock and jazz. This historical series span the years 1973 to 1998. These recordings are not available.