By Susan Brinkmann, OCDS
Staff Journalist

Anyone looking for the perfect gift for Catholic friends and family this year may want to consider a new CD from the Vatican which includes a hymn sung by Pope Benedict XVI and prayers recited by him in five languages.

According to the Christian Science Monitor, the CD is entitled, “Alma Mater – Music from the Vatican” and contains Gregorian chant as well as specially commissioned classical music. It was produced by the Geffen record company which also produces the music of Snoop Dog, Nirvana, and Guns ‘n Roses.

The music was written by three composers, including Briton Simon Boswell, who has composed scores for more than 90 feature films, including several directed by Oscar-winner Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire).

Britain’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra provided accompaniment on the production, recording its contribution at the Abbey Road studios in London, made famous by its links with The Beatles. 

“We are honored to be partners on this historic production which will, for the first time, bring the voice of Pope Benedict XVI to a worldwide audience through these stunning musical compositions,” said Colin Barlow, president of Geffen Records UK. “It is something that has never been done before.”

Recordings of the pope’s singing and recitals were provided by Vatican Radio.

When asked how well the Pope can carry a tune, Monsignor Pablo Colino, conductor of the choir of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, said, “I have known six popes. Not one of them sings and knows music as he does.”

During a recent press conference, Father Federico Lombardi, the Vatican’s official spokesman, said “The pope is open to new ways of evangelization … to experiment with new ways to transmit a spiritual message that the world greatly needs.”

Proceeds from the CD, which can be preordered at Amazon.com, will help fund musical education for underprivileged children around the world.

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