This is an older news item from November 10th, but still relevant to the holiday season. And it’s far too unique for me to pass on posting here.
Telegraph.co.uk reports:
An album featuring for the first time the voice of Pope Benedict XVI [entitled Music from the Vatican: Alma Mater] was to be launched on Tuesday by [Geffen Records] that counts among its artists the rapper Snoop Dogg, The Eagles, Nirvana, Guns ‘N Roses, The Cure and Mary J Blige.
The CD, which is being released in time for Christmas, features the Pope reciting and singing prayers and litanies in five languages, including Latin, Italian and his mother tongue, German.
The Pontiff, who is said to have a good voice, is accompanied on the album by the Royal Philarmonic Orchestra, with the classical music recorded at Abbey Road studios in London. It is the first time that he has ever collaborated in producing an album.
The Pope himself did not have to go into a studio – recordings of his singing and recitals were provided by Vatican Radio.
Proceeds from the album will help fund musical education for underprivileged children around the world.
