"I am normally inspired to compose carols at any other time of year apart from Christmas. A hot SummerÔÇÖs day in July or August is usually the ideal moment for the Yuletide muse to strike! The Tidings of Christmas was no exception. I often compose my own texts to carols and I find that in doing this, I can ensure a close fit between words and music. This carol needs to be performed with tenderness and a well sung legato line. It tells the Christmas story in an abbreviated version, so it is important that the diction is clear and the story conveyed to the listener. Aim for clarity of tone, and in the menÔÇÖs verse a richness of sound. The notes of this carol are not difficult, but the phrasing, intonation and control of nuance is essential for a successful performance."