"All On A Christmas Morning" is one of the least performed but most hauntingly beautiful of the Alfred Burt Christmas carols, this male chorus version features tight four-and five-part voicings and jazz reharmonizations throughout, a rare step-out solo for the second bass, followed by another step-out solo for the first tenor. Rangy, but worthy addition to any Christmas program. This arrangement of "Away In A manger" seeks to give the lyrics their proper focus. It very effectively catches the mood that was intended with the lyrics, alternating shimmering harmonies with unison lines. Each member of the quartet is featured with one verse per person. This jazz waltz arrangement of "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" is reminiscent of Blue Rondo a la Turk. The top tenor has the melody throughout, sung sweetly above the energetic rhythmic bed of the others. Other than a few slightly tongue twisting lines, this arrangement is not at all difficult, but it is very effective. "What Are The Signs?" This little Alfred Burt Christmas carol is effective on its own or as a prelude to other carols in the program, especially other Burt carols. It begins with a Gregorian chant effect with all voices in a very quiet, low unison, then opens into a beautiful four-part male chorale in its second half. Requires good low range in the second bass part. |
