London, Friday 31 July 2009: Geffen / Universal has signed an unprecedented worldwide record deal to release a new album with the Voice of Pope Benedict XVI.
 
The album, released worldwide on 30 November 2009, will be an enchanting blend of Lauretan Litanies and Marian popular chants with eight original pieces of modern classical music. What makes this release especially unique is that this is the very first time that the Voice of Pope Benedict XVI, here speaking and singing in Latin, Italian, Portuguese, French and German, will be heard on an album, thanks to the audio-recordings of Vatican Radio.

Proceeds from the album sales will be used to provide music education for underprivileged children around the world.
 
The album will feature His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, reciting and singing passages and prayers, accompanied by The Choir of the Philharmonic Academy of Rome, conducted by Monsignor Pablo Colino, Maestro Emeritus of St. Peter’s Basilica and recorded in St Peter’s Basilica. The world famous Royal Philharmonic Orchestra plays on all of the specially commissioned contemporary tracks, with the recording session taking place at the iconic Abbey Road studios.
 
Colin Barlow, President of Geffen UK said: “ We are honoured 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.”
 
Don Vito Fracchiolla, Multimedia San Paolo General Manager said: "This agreement was made possible by Multimedia San Paolo in conjunction with Vatican Radio. The album will be released on a global scale, reflecting the original mission of the St Paul group."

Press release from LD Communications