Mixed Voice Christmas Choral Recordings

Bob Chilcott : The Twelve Days of Christmas

Review: This work is classic Chilcott - vibrant, fresh, and great fun. It is an exuberant setting of the well-known carol in which the 'five gold rings' refrain is re-written to appear in an array of guises: gentle soprano solo, swinging barbershop quartet, hard funk, and rock gospel style. This version is for an SATB choir but retains the flexibility to include 'guest' performers. Even the audience can join in!

Songlist: The Twelve Days of Christmas

Bob Chilcott & David Blackwell : Carols for Choirs 5

Review: Carols for Choirs 5 continues the tradition of its predecessors by providing a complete resource for choirs from Advent through to Epiphany. Featuring brand new carols and arrangements of classic tunes, the collection showcases the very best established and new names in choral composition today.

Songlist: A Heavenly Song, A little child there is yborn, A Patre Unigenitus, Adam lay ybounden, Away in a manger (UK tune), Away in a manger (US tune), Blest Mary wanders through the thorn, Candlelight Carol, Carol, Ding dong! merrily on high, Glory to the Christ Child, God rest you merry, gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Hark! the herald-angels sing, Hush! my dear, I saw a stable, I saw three ships, I sing of a maiden, In dulci jubilo, It came upon the midnight clear (UK tune), It came upon the midnight clear (US tune), Joy to the world!, Lo, how a Rose e'er blooming, Lullay, my liking, My Lord has Come, New Year, O come, all ye faithful, O come, O come, Emmanuel, O little town, Old Christmas Returned (or Hospitality Revived), and more

By Carol Ann Duffy and Sasha Johnson Manning : The Manchester Carols

Review: The story of the birth of Jesus is a remarkable one on many levels---whether we see it as an account of the divine made human or simply as a tale of human endeavor. These carols celebrate a child's birth in exceptional circumstances, and what that child was to become: a man who loved his fellow humans and who lived by a humble, selfless creed, championing the marginalized in a society in which life was fraught with political tensions. These carols are for everybody: for the believer and non-believer, for people of various faiths, and simply for the curious.

Chanticleer : A Chanticleer Christmas

Review: Chanticleer's beloved Christmas tradition is now available in this collection of printed music, featuring a foreword by Tom Brokaw. Edited by Chanticleer Music Director Joseph Jennings and Chanticleer tenor Matthew Oltman. Includes extensive notes and pronunciation guide.

Songlist: Nesciens Mater, Quem Vidistis Pastores, Serenissma Una Noche, Sa Qui Turo Zente Pleta, Noel Nouvelet, Tu Scendi Dalle Stelle, Kristallen Den Fina, Lulajze Jezuniu, O Come, O Come Emamanuel, Star Of Wonder/We Three Kings, A Lullaby/Away In A Manger, In The Bleak Mid-Winter, Glory To The Newborn, Silent Night

Choir of King's College, Cambridge : Christmas at King's College

Review: Every Christmas Eve for decades, the world-renowned Choir of King's College Chapel, Cambridge has broadcast the Festival o Nine Lessons and Carols worldwide on BBC Radio (Carols from King's is also televised by the BBC every Christmas annually). It never fails to inspire and appeal by bringing together readings from the Christmas story with the singing of traditional carols in which all may join: classic Christmas arrangements for the choir and exciting newly-composed anthems that often become choral classics. For countless people the broadcast of Nine Lessons and Carols is a major part of the Christmas experience. 

Now the King's College Director of Music, Stephen Cleobury, has created this album of forty-six of the most enduring choral pieces from the Festivals. Thirteen are published here for the first time, ten were specially commissioned for King's and seven are carols for choir and congregation. Wide ranging in sources, this collection includes arrangements by King's directors of music David Wilcocks, Philip Ledger and Stephen Cleobury and leading contemporary composers such as Richard Rodney Bennett, Bob Chilcott, Jonathan Dove, John Joubert, Roxanna Panufnik, Arvo Part, John Rutter, Peter Sculthorpe, John Tavener, and Judith Weir.

Christmas at King's includes a preface by Stephen Cleobury and a useful appendix of readings with relevant repertoire from the collection for those choirs who want to present their own Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.

Songlist: Once In Royal David's City, A Great and Mighty Wonder, A Tender Shoot, A Virgin Most Pure, Adam Lay Ybounden, Alleluya, A New Work Is Come On Hand, Away In A Manger, Be Merry, Benedicamus Domino, The Birthday of Thy King, Bogoroditsye Dyevo, Christo Paremus Cantica, God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing In, I Wonder As I Wander, I Sing Of A Maiden, Illuminare, Jerusalem, In Wintertime, Infant Holy, Infant Lowly, The Infant King, It Came Upon The Midnight Clear, Jesus Christ The Apple Tree, The Lamb, Morning Song For The Christ Child, Myn Lyking, No Small Wonder, Love Came Down At Christmas, Noel nouvelet, Nowel, and more

Dale Warland : The Dale Warland Christmas Editions Vol 1

Review: Here's a striking collection of superbly arranged carols. Simple yet distinctive instrumentation provides added depth and excitement. Use them individually or perform them as a concert set. "The First Nowell" and "Of Our Fathers Love Begotten" are a cappella.

Songlist: What Child Is This?, Away In A Manger, What Is This Fragrance?, The Angels And The Shephers, Bring A Torch, Jeannette Isabella, The First Nowell, Of Our Fathers Love Begotten

Dale Warland : The Dale Warland Christmas Editions Vol 2

Review: A collection of stunning arrangements featured on the Dale Warland Singers album "Sing We of Christmas". "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" and "Jesus Christ, The Apple Tree" are a cappella

Songlist: Manger Dance, Christmas Lullaby, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, It Came Upon The Midnight Clear, We Three Kings, Ding Dong! Merrily On High, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, Jesus Christ, The Apple Tree

David Chase : Sing Christmas - The Carol Arrangements of David Chase

Review: As David Chase says in his bio, Christmas has been very, very good to me. And indeed, because of his good fortune, his arrangements have been very, very good for all of us. Here is a value collection containing 5 of his exceptional arrangements: Angels We Have Heard on High, The First Noel, God Rest Ye, Cradle Hymn, and Yuletide Carols (includes Deck the Halls and We Wish You A Merry Christmas).

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard on High, The First Noel, God Rest Ye, Cradle Hymn, Yuletide Carols

David Hill (Editor) : Noel 2 - Carols and Anthems for Advent, Christmas and Epiphany

Review: Noel 2 is an exciting collection of Advent, Christmas and Epiphany music for mixed voice choirs, from the easy to learn to the more challenging and unconventional. The contents range from the Renaissance to the present: from Bach and Sweelinck, familiar settings of traditional and lesser known carols through the ages to Howells and Leighton and works by today's composers include Richard Rodney Bennett, Eric Whitacre, John Tavener, Tarik O'Regan and Richard Allain. Among the 43 anthems, mixed voice choirs of all levels will find new arrangements of favorite carols, hymns with new descants, as well as stimulating original works for the Christmas season.

Songlist: Ubers Gebirg Maria Geht, Adam Lay Y Bounden, Angelus ad Virginem, Away In A Manger, Bethlehem Down, Coventry Carol, Ding Dong! Merrily on High, E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come, Gallery Carol, Gaudete!, Gloria, Dei Sir Gesungen, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Hodie Christus Natus Est, I Wonder As I Wander, I Wonder As I Wander, In Dulci Jubilo, Jesus Christ The Apple Tree, Lasset Uns Frohlocken, Long, Long Ago, Love Came Down At Christmas, Lullay My Liking, Lux Aurumque, 'O' Antiphon, O Come, All Ye Faithful, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, O Jesulein, Of A Rose, Once In Royal David's City, Puer Nobis, Resonet In Laudibus, and more

David Hill (Editor) : Noel! - Carols and Anthems for Advent, Christmas and Epiphany

Review: Noel! is an exciting collection for mixed voice choirs, selected and edited by David Hill. The contents range from the Renaissance to the present: the polyphony of Victoria and Byrd, via Bach, familiar settings of traditional and lesser known carols through the ages, and works by today's composers including Richard Rodney Bennett, Judith Bingham, John Tavener and Judith Weir. Mixed voice choirs of all levels will find here new arrangements of favourite carols as well as stimulating works for the Christmas season, from the easy to learn to the more challenging and unconventional.

Songlist: Epiphany (Bingham), Out Of Your Sleep (Nelson), Adam Lay Ybounden (Ord), Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day (Gardner, John), Sing Lullaby!, There Is No Rose (Bax/Dawkes), No Small Wonder (Edwards), It Came Upon The Midnight Clear (Sullivan, Arthur), O Magnum Mysterium (De Victoria, Tomas Luis), Once In Royal David's City (O'donnell), Silent Night (Gruber, Franz), Noel Nouvelet (Jackson), Still, Still, Still (Gant), There Is No Rose (Joubert, John), Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, We Wish You A Merry Christmas (Allwood), The Twelve Days Of Christmas (Carter), The Angel Gabriel From Heaven Came (Pettman), The Clouded Heaven (Bingham), On Christmas Day (Bennett), O Come, All Ye Faithful, In The Bleak Midwinter, Bethlehem Down (Warlock, Peter), The Kings (Nicolai/Cornelius), Jingle Bells (Pierpont, J.) (Allwood, Ralph), Away In A Manger, It Came Upon The Midnight Clear (Willis, Richard Storrs), In Dulci Jubilo (Bach, Johann Sebastian), Rocking (Hill), We Three Kings, and more

David Willcocks : A Celebration in Carols

Review: Sir David Willcocks: A Celebration in Carols marks the 95th birthday of one of the most acclaimed choral conductors, editors, and arrangers of our time. A survey of his work, the collection brings together many of Willcocks's best-loved carol arrangements, spanning his career as co-editor of Carols for Choirs and as conductor of the UK's finest choirs. It includes a selection of his original compositions too, and gives an overview of the styles and traditions that have enhanced the Christmas musical experience of thousands of singers and listeners. As an affectionate birthday tribute, A Celebration also includes specially-commissioned new carols by John Rutter, Bob Chilcott, and Jonathan Willcocks.

Songlist: Away in a manger, I saw three ships, O come, all ye faithful, Sussex Carol, Infant holy, infant lowly, Tomorrow shall be my dancing day, Hark! the herald-angels sing, Quelle est cette odeur agreable?, Gabriel's Message, Birthday Carol, Resonemus laudibus, Jingle, Bells, Lullay, my liking, High Word of God, eternal Light, Starry night, Rejoice and sing!, Nowell, nowell, There is no rose

David Willcocks (editor) : Carols for Choirs Vol 3

Review: The volumes of Carols for Choirs have established themselves as the quintessential carol books for carol-singers around the world. Each volume presents a wide range of carols to suit every occasion, from well-known tunes superbly arranged to the best original compositions. Carols for Choirs 3 includes Fifty varied carols including a selection of Baroque and Medieval carols. Also favorites from Gustav Holst and Tchaikovsky.

Songlist: A Babe Is Born, A Babe Is Born In Bethlehem, A Child This Day Is Born, A Little Child On The Earth Has Been Born, A Little Child There Is Y-born, Ah! Dearest Jesu, Holy Child, All In The Morning, Angel Tidings, Angelus ad Virginem, As I Sat On A Sunny Bank, Bethlehem, Of Noblest Cities, Birthday Carol, Boar's Head Carol, Child In A Manger, Christ Was Born On Christmas ay, Christe, Redemptor Omnium, Christmas Oratorio, Three Extracts from, Come All You Worthy Gentlemen, Come, Rock The Cradle For Him, The Cradle Song, Cradle Song, The Crown Of Roses, Deck The Hall, Donkey Carol, Donkey Riding Over The Bumpy Road, Eatrh Has Many A Noble City, Earth This Glad Day Rejoices, Flemish Carol, Gabriel To Mary Came, Gabriel's Message, and more

Douglas Nolan : A Song Is Born

Review: Especially designed to enable quick and easy learning, this celebrative choral cantata is an ideal choice for churches with limited rehearsal times. Beautifully crafted carol arrangements combine with best-selling seasonal anthems to create a pleasing and meaningful holiday presentation. With a 20-minute performance time, this work can be used as the centerpiece of a carol singing service or a hanging of the green event. Composed for 2-Part or SAB voices, this work is appropriate for choirs of any size or ability level.

Songlist: Tapestry of Joyful Carols, The King Is Coming Soon, Baby in a Manger, Echo Gloria, I Give My Song, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Edited Bob Chilcott & Ken Burton : Christmas Spirituals For Choirs

Review: Christmas Spirituals is a fresh and inspiring collection of new spiritual arrangements and orginal pieces in a gospel style for SATB groups of every size and ability. All the best-loved spirituals are here including "Mary Had A Baby", "Go Tell It To The Mountain" and "Rise Up, Shepherd and Follow", whilst the new songs are sure to become tomorrow's "classics". Together, the 12 pieces represent a wonderful diverse telling of the Christmas story to delight and inspire choirs and their audiences throughout this season of the year.

Songlist: And His Name Shall be Called, Away in a Manger, Behold that Star, Children, go where I Send Thee, Go, Tell It on the Mountain, Mary had a Baby, Mighty Wonder, Remember, O Thou Man, Rise Up Shepherd and Follow, Star of the Night, The Virgin Mary had a Baby Boy, Wasn't that a Mighty Day!

Einojuhani Rautavaara : Our Joyful'st Feast

Review: This Christmas carol, commissioned by the Finnish broadcasting company Yle and first performed in Helsinki by Helsinki Chamber Choir, conducted by Nils Schweckendiek, is based on three texts, two by William Shakespeare and one by George Wither. The largely homophonic textures combine with Rautavaara's characteristically rich and often chromatic harmonies to form a very effective and satisfying work, a bit different from the usual Christmas offering.

Emily Crocker : The Other Wise Man

Review: A classic Christmas story by Henry Van Dyke takes wings in this time-honored cantata by Emily Crocker. Music, narration and message speak to the very heart of Christmas in this approachable yet highly effective testament to grace. Songs include:Who Would a Wise Man Be?; God of Truth and Light; A Tiny Child; Prince of Peace.

Songlist: A Tiny Child, God Of Truth And Light, Prince Of Peace, Who Would A Wise Man Be?

Francis Poulenc : Quatre motets pour le temps de Noel

Review: Completed in 1952, Poulenc often returned to traditional forms of French church music popular in the Renaissance, such as the motet, that had fallen out of favor in the late eighteenth century. Following the narrative of the nativity, Poulenc intended that the movements be performed together.

Songlist: O magnum mysterium, Quem vidistis pastores dicite, Videntes stellam, Hodie Christus natus est

Frank Ferko : A Festival of Carols

Review: "A Festival of Carols for mixed chorus and harp is based on five Christmas carol texts by 19th century American poets and hymn writers. Although it was my intention to use earlier American texts, I found that most Christmas carols sung in America prior to the 19th century were carols brought to this country by immigrants from their homelands in Europe. Thus, many of the early carols sung here did not originate in this country. The 19th century, however, did produce an abundance of new texts by American writers, and these were also set to music by American composers. Some of these carols have become quite well-known while others have remained relatively obscure. In the present work all of the music is new whether or not the texts are familiar. Thus, the carols herein are not arrangements of previously existing tunes but entirely new melodies and harmonizations with the harp used both as an accompanying instrument and as an intrinsic thread within the larger musical fabric." -Frank Ferko

Fred Waring and his Pennsylvanians : Fred Waring Christmas Songbook

Review: This excellent Christmas carol collection supplements Hawley Ades' best-selling general collection, the Fred Waring Songbook. Hawley Ades, long regarded as one of America's most skillful arrangers of music for singing, has been associated with the Fred Waring organization since 1937. This long and fruitful relationship is reflected in the imaginative treatment of the music in this book and in the many other published settings by Mr. Ades. Over 30 a cappella carols for either SATB, SSA and TTBB.

Songlist: Angels From The Realms Of Glory, As Lately We Watched, Bring A Torch, Jeannette Isabella, Christ Was Born On Christmas Day, The First Noel, Friendly Beasts, Fum, Fum, Fum, Glad Christmas Bells, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Good Christian Men Rejoice, Good King Wenceslas, Here We Come A-Caroling, Holly And The Ivy, I heard The Bells on Christmas Day, I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing In, Joy To The World, Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming, Lully, Lulla, Thou Little Tiny Child, March Of The Kings, Masters In This Hall, O Christmas Tree, O Come Little Children, O Come, O Come, Little emmanuel, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, Pat-a-Pan, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Shepards Shake Off Your Drowsy Sleep, Sing We Now Of Christmas, Snow Lay On The Ground, and more

George Frideric Handel : Messiah

Review: The world-famous Novello choral edition of Handel's beautiful masterpiece. Arranged for SATB with piano part. Edited with piano reduction by Watkins Shaw.

Songlist: Messiah

Giles Swayne : Four Christmas Carols, Op. 77

Review: Four Christmas carols that capture the distinctive, contradictory and unmistakable choral style of Giles Swayne. Always plain-speaking, challenging, intense and emotionally honest, Swayne's music also brims with wit, melody and a sly playfulness that is both captivating and addictive. The Four Christmas Carols were written over several years. The first three are for unison voices with Piano, and can be performed by the whole assembly. The fourth requires a larger SATB chorus, and is a larger, expressive and impressive setting of The Coventry Carol. This set of carols has it all -from grand unison melodies, familiar tunes and rousing choruses to more poignant, challenging and unusual passages. It represents a hugely satisfying and entertaining addition to any festive performance or carol concert.

Songlist: Coventry Carol, Joseph's Carol, Starlight, The Two Nowells

Gladys Pitcher : 30 Old and New Christmas Carols (SATB)

Review: 30 Old and New Christmas Carols for church, home or community singing. This edition is for unison or four-part mixed voices.

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard on High, Away in a Manger, The Birthday of a King, Carol of the Russian Children, Christmas is Coming, Coventry Carol, Deck the Hall, The First Nowell, The Friendly Beasts, God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Hark! The Herald AngelGood King Wenceslass Sing, The Holly and the Ivy, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, Jingle Bells, Joy to the World, Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming, O Come, All Ye Faithful, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, O Holy Night, O Little Town of Behtlehem, Shepherds, Shake off Your Drowsy Sleep, Silent Night, Susanni, Wassail Song, We Three Kings of Orient Are, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, What Child is This? (Greensleeves), While By My Sheep, While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

Gwyn Arch : Smash Hits for Christmas

Review: Slade's smash hit Merry Christmas, Everybody is teamed up here with The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy and the ever-popular Do You Hear What I Hear?, in irresistible arrangements guaranteed to make your Christmas concert go off with a bang! The Faber Young Voices series is devised specifically to address the needs of young or newly-formed choirs looking for easy, yet rewarding new repertoire.

Songlist: Christmas, Everybody, The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy, Do You Hear What I Hear?

Gwyneth Walker : Rejoice!

Review: New musical settings of three traditional Christmas carols or poems: "What Child Is This?;" "Love Came Down at Christmas;" and "Good Christian Friends Rejoice!" The intent is to explore the dramatic character of each song.

Songlist: What Child Is This?, Love Came Down at Christmas, Good Christian Friends Rejoice!"

Hayes Biggs : Four Christmas Motets

Review: Collection of four motets which were originally composed as personal holiday greetings to family, friends and colleagues. Includes excellent performance notes.

Songlist: Vidistis Pastores, O Sapientia, Videntesstellam, Verbum caro factumest

Heather Sorenson : Little Lion, Little Lamb

Review: Composed in both traditional and blended choral stylings, this cantata weaves the historic symbolism of both the Lion of Judah and the Lamb of God into the Christmas story. Through original songs and traditional carols, singers and listeners are reminded that this story is not just an event in history, but a living story that still impacts the world today. Narration, solos, congregational participation and optional children's voices, along with gorgeous orchestrations by Keith Christopher, all work together to make this service a time of both celebration and worship.

Songlist: And So We Wait, Angels From The Realms Of Glory, In This Moment, Carol Of The King, Overture (Sing Christmas!), Sleep Little Lion, Sleep Little Lamb, Where Is Peace Tonight?, Who's The Little Baby?

Howard Helvey : Sing We Now of Christmas

Review: Exquisite, fresh carol settings are woven together with scripture lessons and poetic narration to create a refreshing celebration of Advent and Christmas. Howard Helvey's artistry shines in each rich arrangement. Optional congregational readings and singing are included as well, to complete the presentation. The work is as singable as it is effective and inspiring, and will usher in the season of rejoicing with joy and festivity. Create a celebration of the Incarnation with Sing We Now of Christmas. Performance time is 30 minutes if it is performed only with narration (and no lessons and additional congregational carols). If performed with the scripture lessons and congregational carols, performance time is 55 minutes.

Songlist: What Shall We Sing for the Child?, People, Look East, Infant Holy, Infant Lowly, Coventry Carol, Go, Tell It on the Mountain, What Can I Give Him?., Sing We Now of Christmas.

Hywel Davies : Holiday Carols for SAB Choirs

Review: Here are four classic Christmas carols skillfully arranged for the concert stage, worship anthems or caroling in your neighborhood. These are not set in a traditional hymn style but rather graced with polyphony and counterpoint.

Songlist: Deck The Hall, Hark The Herald, Sussex Carol, We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Jack W. Hayford : Sing and Shout for Joy!

Review: Proclaim the majesty...the wonder...and the joy of the Christmas message with Sing and Shout for Joy! Tom Fettke's musical mastery is complemented by the thought-provoking and inspiring words of Pastor Jack Hayford to create an unforgettable Christmas worship experience. Flexible to meet the needs of choirs large and small, contemporary or blended, this new musical presents the life-changing message of the Gospel in six musical sections filled with classic carols and exciting new songs.

Songlist: Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring, Angels We Have Heard On High, Joy To The World, Jesu, Light Of Lights, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne, Shout To The Lord, He Is King Of Kings, Gloria! Glory To God!, Jesu, Joy!, Jesus, The Light, Mary's Song, See His Entrance To The World, Shepherd Fields, They Had Joy, Treasures For A King, What You Gonna Call Him?, Child Of God, Come And Behold Him, Holy, Holy, Holy (Early Christmas Morning), Good Christian Men, Rejoice, We Will Glorify

Jane Sebba : Christmas Fare

Review: Jane Sebba's Christmas Fare offers a truly original angle on the festive season: the sprited, jazzy Troika and Christmas Fare contrast strikingly with two poignant, moving ballads to produce an irresistible, entertaining collection. A must for the end-of-term Christmas concert! The Faber Young Voices series is devised specifically to address the needs of young or newly-formed choirs looking for easy, yet rewarding new repertoire.

Songlist: Trioka, Christmas Fare, Deep in the Forest, Last Christmas

Jay Althouse : Joy: A Carol Collection SAB

Review: "Troll the ancient Yuletide Carols" in a whole new way with these bright, fresh a cappella arrangements by popular choral arranger Jay Althouse. The 20 carol settings juxtapose traditional tonalities with some modern harmonies, adding a unique, resonant sound to these time-honored favorites. You'll use this festive, contemporary collection of best-loved carols year after year. Great when sung by a full choir or by a handful of singers at concerts, for community performances, door-to-door caroling, or whenever singers get together just for fun during the holiday season.

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard on High, Away in a Manger, The Boar's Head Carol, Coventry Carol, Deck The Hall, The First Noel, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Here We Come A-Caroling, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, Jingle Bells, Joy to the World, O Come, All Ye Faithful, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Silent Night, Holy Night, We Three Kings of Orient Are, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, What Child Is This?

Jay Althouse : Joy: A Carol Collection SATB

Review: "Troll the ancient Yuletide Carols" in a whole new way with these bright, fresh a cappella arrangements by popular choral arranger Jay Althouse. The 20 carol settings juxtapose traditional tonalities with some modern harmonies, adding a unique, resonant sound to these time-honored favorites. You'll use this festive, contemporary collection of best-loved carols year after year. Great when sung by a full choir or by a handful of singers at concerts, for community performances, door-to-door caroling, or whenever singers get together just for fun during the holiday season.

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard on High, Away in a Manger, The Boar's Head Carol, Coventry Carol, Deck the Hall, The First Noel, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Here We Come A-Caroling, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, Jingle Bells, Joy to the World, O Come, All Ye Faithful, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Silent Night, Holy Night, We Three Kings of Orient Are, We Wish You A Merry Christmas, What Child Is This?

Jay Rouse : Carolers A Cappella

Review: Jay Rouse has established himself as one of the premiere arrangers in Christian music today. His collections reflect the sensitive and worshipful style that has become Jay's signature. This is a great collection of carols for unaccompanied voices that are bound to please.

Songlist: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, How Great Our Joy!, Silent Night, Holy Night, Away In A Manger, Joy To The World!

Jay Rouse : Medallion A Cappella: Christmas, Volume One

Review: This small collection of a cappella carols is a fantastic resource for choirs looking for unaccompanied options and small groups looking for Christmas repertoire. Featuring four carols of contrasting styles, these arrangements are beautifully executed.

Songlist: See Amid The Winter's Snow, Angels We Have Heard On High, Lo! How A Rose E'er Blooming, Go, Tell It On The Mountain

Jeremy Dibble (Editor) : An Edwardian Carol Book

Review: This collection brings together twelve richly varied carols by six British composers well known in the Edwardian era. Here are simple strophic carols with elegant melodies and rich in harmonic interest typical of the 'High Victorian' style. With a fascinating introduction to the carols and notes on sources and editorial policy, this collection restores a range of highly attractive carols to the repertoire, and as such will be welcomed by all mixed choirs looking to refresh their Christmas programmes.

Songlist: A Carol For Christmas, A Carol Of The Nativity, A Cradle-song Of The Blessed Virgin, As With Gladness Men Of Old, Christmas Song, I Sing The Birth, Lo! Christ The Lord Is Born, Sleep Holy Babe!, The Child Jesus In The Garden, Welcome Yule, When Christ Was Born Of Mary Free

Jerry Rubino : An American Christmas

Review: Showcasing the talents of some of North America's best choral arrangers and composers, An American Christmas presents sixteen Yuletide treats that are guaranteed to add zest to any choir's repertoire. Drawing on a variety of styles including gospel, country, blues, and jazz An American Christmas presents some of the season's best-loved carols in a fresh light and there are also wonderful new original works by Libby Larsen and James Bassi. With opportunities for soloists and a variety of choral textures, this collection is bound to add an American sparkle to your ensemble's festivities.

Songlist: A Simple Gloria, Away In a Manger, Children, Go Where I Send Thee, D'ou Viens-tu Bergere?, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Huron Carol, I Saw Three Ships, Joy to the World!, Lullee, Lullai, Lullo, Lullabye, O Holy Night, Oh What a Wonderful Child, On Christmas Night (Sussex Carol), Shepherds Rejoice!, Silent Night, The Blasts of Chill December

Jester Hairston : Christmas Spirituals

Review: A collection of Jester Hairston Christmas spirituals arranged by William Ryden, and scored for two-part women's choir.

Songlist: Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Mary's Little Boy Chile, Christmas In De Tropics, Rise Up Shepherd and Follow, Wasn't That A Might Day, Ring De Christmas Bells, Mary, Mary, Where Is Your Baby?, Christmas Gift

John Gardner : Carols

Review: This anthology of eleven carols celebrates the festive music of John Gardner (1917-2011). It contains some of his most well-known settings alongside new repertoire, including a previously unpublished Epiphany carol, 'Entry of the Three Kings'. From the reflective 'A Christmas Hymn' to his joyful setting of 'The holly and the ivy', John Gardner Carols presents a variety of styles and moods that will delight choirs and audiences alike. A number of pieces give alternative performance instructions to allow upper-voice choirs to enjoy this superb collection.

Songlist: A Gallery Carol, A Christmas Hymn, Angels, from the realms of glory, Balulalow, How bright the Morning Star does shine, O little town of Bethlehem, Sunny Bank Carol, The holly and the ivy, Welcome, Yule!, Entry of the Three Kings, We wish you a merry Christmas

John Joubert : Carols & Anthems for Mixed Voices

Review: John Joubert's compositional range is considerable, yet it is with his short choral works in the Anglican tradition that his mastery has been best appreciated. Here for the first time collected in one handsome volume are a dozen of the finest, with texts from both the biblical and non-liturgical. This anthology from a lifetime's output is convincing proof of a composer who still has much new to say in this most demanding medium.

Songlist: Christ is Risen, There Is No Rose, Glory and Honor, The Souls of the Righteous, Lord, Thou Hast Been Our Refuge, O Lord, Maker of All Things, O Praise God In His Holiness, The Beatitudes, The Christ-Child Lay, Coversdale's Carol, All And Some Nowell Sing We, Hymn To The Virgin

John Joubert : Five Songs Of Incarnation

Review: Five Songs of Incarnation is planned to be performed as a cycle in celebration of the Nativity. Each song is prefaced by quotations from the first chapter of St. John's Gospel set for tenor solo and SATB unaccompanied. Although the work is designed as a single entity to be performed without a break, individual songs may be performed separately, with or without their respective preface. Four of the songs are reworkings of carols from the composer's earlier Five Carols for Five Voices, Op. 78. The central song, I Sing of a Maiden, is new, as are the prefaces for tenor solo.

Songlist: I Sing Of A Maiden, Let Us Gather Hand In Hand, Make We Joy Now In This Feast, Of A Rose, A Lovely Rose, When Christ Was Born Of Mary

John Leavitt : A Midnight Clear

Review: A Midnight Clear is a joyful collection of carols that beautifully and elegantly portray the Christmas story. Stylistic variety abounds, and the optional Chamber Orchestration will provide additional layers of texture and color to the work. Selections can be presented individually or as part of a full-length cantata, making this book an excellent choice for Lessons and Carols services or for concert presentations.

Songlist: All My Heart This Night Rejoices, Blessed Be That Maid Mary, Carol For The Newborn King, Christmas Celebration, In Dulci Jubilo., It Came Upon The Midnight Clear, King Jesus Hath A Garden, O Come, Little Children, Puer Natus In Bethlehem

John Leavitt : Festival of Lessons & Carols

Review: Capturing the varied moods and colors of Advent, Christmas and Epiphany, this cantata from John Leavitt is delightful! Masterfully written and highly singable, the selection of carols is pure Christmas joy. Leavitt's inimitable stamp is on each arrangement creating a work rich in Christmas traditions with an artistic touch. Available: SATB, Instrumental Pak, ChoirTrax CD.

Songlist: O Little Town Of Bethlehem, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Away In A Manger, Only Begotten, Word Of God Eternal, Coventry Carol, As With Gladness Men Of Old, Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming, Ding Dong! Merrily On High!, Break Forth, O Beauteous, Heavenly Light, Once In Royal David's City, O How Joyfully

John Leavitt : Hodie!

Review: This delightful cantata uses classic texts and will appeal to both church and school. Perform the entire work to celebrate the joyous Christmas season or use as separate anthems or concert pieces.

Songlist: Cantate!, Ding Dong! Merrily On High!, Hodie!, O Magnum Mysterium, Personent Hodie

John Leavitt : Joy to the World

Review: Classic choral literature enhanced with scripture readings and congregational participation creates a wonderful setting for celebrating the Christmas season. As always, John Leavitt's touch on this type of service is impeccable. May be used as a complete cantata, or as individual anthems throughout the Christmas season. Duration: ca. 40:00.

Songlist: Joy To The World, O Holy Night, On This Day Earth Shall Ring, Little Noel, Mariä Wiegenlied (The Virgin's Slumber Song) (Reger), Zion Hears The Watchmen Singing, See Amid The Winter's Snow, Gesu Bambino (The Infant Jesus), While By My Sheep, Kling, Glockchen (Ring, Merry Bell), Blessed Be That Maid Marie

John Leavitt : Sing A Merry Christmas!

Review: You will find plenty of performance options with this practical and value-packed collection of a cappella Christmas favorites.

Songlist: Deck the Hall, Ding Dong! Merrily on High, Jolly Old St. Nicholas, Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, While by My Sheep

John Leavitt : What Sweeter Music

Review: From John Leavitt comes this elegant cantata for Christmas, set up in the form of a classic Lessons and Carols service. A colorful tapestry of beautiful sounds, this major work has great variety in its scope and style. Whether presented with piano or John's chamber orchestration, the sensitive writing will showcase the artful approach of a master arranger, making this compilation of carols and readings a thoughtful choice for churches, universities and community choruses. Highly recommended! Songs include: Veni, Veni Emmanuel; People, Look East; The Angel Gabriel; He Is Born, the Divine Christ Child; Resonet in laudibus; What Sweeter Music; Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day; We Three Kings of Orient Are; Sing Noel, Alleluia! Score and Parts (fl 1-2/pic, ob, cl 1-2, bn, perc 1-3, timp, hp, vn 1-2, va, vc, db) available as a Printed Edition and as a digital download.

Songlist: He Is Born, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, People, Look East, Resonet In Laudibus, Sing Noel, Alleluia!, The Angel Gabriel, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, We Three Kings Of Orient Are, What Sweeter Music

John Purifoy : Candles of Advent

Review: Usher in the Season of Light with Candles of Advent, a creative collection of carols and songs. Use the anthems individually during the Advent season through Christmas, or with the narration included for a complete cantata. Medium easy.Available separately: SATB, Instrumental Pak (Chamber Orchestra) and ChoirTrax CD.

Songlist: Love Came Down At Christmas, Immanuel, To Thee We Sing, O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings, O Come, Emmanuel, Hark! The Glad Sound

John Purifoy : Holly and Ivy

Review: With the celebration of Advent more popular each year, this work by John Purifoy will be a welcome tool for the traditional Hanging of the Green service. You will find each title in this unique collection usable throughout December as well. Available separately: SATB, Preview CD, ChoirTrax CD, Chamber Orchestra Score and Parts (fl, ob, hp, timp, perc, vn 1, 2, va, vc, b), CD 10-Pak, Preview CD Pak. Duration: ca. 15:00.

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard On High, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, The Holly And The Ivy, Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus, Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming, He Is Born, Good Christian Men, Rejoice, O Come, Little Children, Peace, Hope, Light And Love

John Purifoy : Longing for the Light

Review: This moving cantata is a worship service of contemplation and reflection. Based on the classic Evensong service, the work is appropriate for choirs looking for a something that is both traditional and yet very innovative. A profound blending of message and music, the writers have provided a moving invitation to quietly consider the advent moment from an ancient yet relevant perspective, while the narration for multiple readers and congregation poignantly weaves everything together. Though brief, this powerful work will be an inspiring moment as your church prepares for the Christmas event. Truly inspired!

Songlist: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus, O Come, O Come Emmanuel, O Come, Thou Branch Of Jesse's Tree, O Come, Thou Key Of David, O Come, Thou Wisdom, O Savior, Open Heaven Wide, 'Tis The Winter Of Our Longing, Wake, Awake, For Night Is Flying

John Rutter : Carols

Review: Full of joy and tenderness, John Rutter's carols illuminate and celebrate the Christmas story in works of great imagination and variety. This selection of his most popular carols forms an essential collection for all choirs. Includes 10 SATB carols, accompanied and unaccompanied.

Songlist: Angels' Carol, Candlelight Carol, Dormi, Jesu, Love Came Down At Christmas, Mary's Lullaby, Nativity Carol, Shepard's Pipe Carol, Star Carol, There Is A Flower, What Sweeter Music