With its debut album, Stillpoint (1997), the Adagio Trio established itself as a first-rate chamber group capable of bringing a deep sense of spirituality to familiar classical and folk tunes. The group’s second album, Sanctuary, firmly reinforced this reputation.  (Their rendition of Schubert’s “Ave Maria” must be counted among the finest on record.)  Now this ensemble – which is made up of Virginia Symphony cellist Mike Daniels, flutist Kathryn Daniels, and harpist Linda Grieser has released a superb collection of Christmas music.

     From start to finish, the music glistens like virgin snow in the morning sun.  I do, however have my own favorites.  At the top of the list is the first cut, “What Child Is This?”  The piece opens with a Daniels’ statement of the melody over soft arpeggios from Grieser’s harp. It is at once straightforward and laden with mystery.  Then, as if in answer to the question expressed in the song’s title, Kathryn plays a lovely, feather-light variation on the theme.  The solo is imbued with innocence and understated devotion.  Indeed, as I closed my eyes and let the notes wash over me I was reminded of lines from the Gospel According to Luke: “Be not afraid; for behold I bring you good news of great joy.”

     Among the album’s 16 other selections are many Christmas standards, including “Silent Night,” “O Holy Night,” “ Away In A Manger,” and “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.”  All are performed with a striking freshness and perfect emotional balance: the emotional essence of each composition is fully drawn out but never exaggerated.

Equally noteworthy are the less familiar tunes.  Especially memorable is “In the Bleak Midwinter,” which glows with the warmth and light of a well-tended hearth fire.

If you buy one Christmas album this year, buy this.  You won’t be disappionted. And while you’re at it, pick up some copies of Stillpoint and Sanctuary to give as gifts. I know many people who received them this way and cherish them still.  For more information visit www.adagiotrio.com.

                              Tom Robotham, Port Folio Weekly, Dec.10, 2002