for female vocalist, children's choir, SATB choir, piano.
This richly expressive cantata sets five discrete texts, each reflecting a different aspect of Christmastide. The first movement is set to a poem by Alfred, Lord Tennyson which anticipates Christ's birth; the instantly memorable, eager melody captures perfectly the sense of expectation conveyed in the text. It is followed by 'Good day, Sir Christemas', a joyous, rollicking song for children's choir; the wondrous 'This endris night'; and the contemplative, wistful carol 'Put memory away', set to a contemporary poem by Elizabeth Jennings. The last movement is a funky, rocking celebration of the Nativity, set to a 17th-century text by William Drummond of Hawthornden. Very approachable and a huge joy to sing, this is an absolute must for Christmas concerts.