The 'Angel' Oratorio was written over 10 months in 1996, using texts from the Jewish Bible, the New Testament, and the Book of Enoch. Conceived in three parts, the dramatic structure deals with statements from and about angels, including angels of light, fallen angels, and angels used as messengers (original meaning of the word in Greek). Also included are poems of John Milton, William Shakespeare and William Blake. The work was first performed on April 26, 1998 with Mary Jane Newman conducting. The oratorio is dedicated to the memory of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, certainly the greatest 'angel' of our time. - Anthony Newman Orchestra of Bedford Chamber Concerts conducted by Mary Jane Newman Soloists: Kate Webber, soprano on The Hymn Allesandria Visconti, soprano - Amy Butler, alto - James Worthy, tenor - Russ Ashley, bass on The Angel Appeared to Moses Joan Krause, soprano on How Sweet the Moonlight, Rage, Blow Your Trumpets Angels Michael Steinberger on Ave Maria