Album Description14 Gregorian Chants for Advent and Christmas from the Cathedral of Padua in the 12th-15th centuries The Liber Ordinarius from the cathedral of Padua is an extraordinary source. It outlines the distinctive character of the Paduan liturgy, provides detailed testimony concerning performances of remarkable complexity, and even gives some indications for "stage directions." This wealth of information was probably intended for the chorarii, to whom fell the task of conducting the rites, and it efficaciously expands upon and specifies the principal function of this liturgical book: that of gathering together whatever was to be recited, sung, or executed during the year. For this reason, readings, songs, and prayers can only be referred to by the first words of the text.