Immerse yourself in the timeless tradition of Christmas with Sir David Willcocks' "A Festival of Lessons and Carols," a beautifully crafted choral album set to release on December 3, 2023, under the Digital Gramophone label. This enchanting collection, spanning 51 minutes, is a harmonious blend of choral mastery and classic Christmas carols, making it a perfect addition to your holiday season.
Sir David Willcocks, a renowned figure in the world of choral music, brings together a series of lessons and carols that have been a staple of Christmas celebrations for generations. The album opens with a spoken introduction, followed by the traditional "Processional Hymn: Once In Royal David’s City," setting the stage for a spiritual and musical journey.
The album is structured around nine lessons, each interspersed with beloved carols that range from the ancient "Adam lay ybounden" to the familiar "Away in a Manger" and the triumphant "Hark the Herald Angels Sing." Willcocks' expert direction ensures that each piece is performed with precision and passion, showcasing the rich traditions of choral singing.
Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply looking to enhance your Christmas festivities, "A Festival of Lessons and Carols" offers a serene and uplifting experience. The combination of scripture readings and carols creates a sense of reverence and joy, making it a cherished part of your holiday celebrations.
Tracks
Spoken IntroductionTerry Hepworth
Processional Hymn: Once In Royal David’s CityChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks, Simon Preston
The Bidding Prayer (Traditional)The Provost of King’s College
InvitatoryChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks, Simon Preston
First Lesson: God announces in the Garden of Eden that the seed of woman shall bruise the serpenAnthony Seddon
Carol: Adam lay yboundenChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
Second Lesson: Christ’s birth and kingdom are foretold by IsaiahHanmer Webb-Peploe
Carol: I Saw Three ShipsChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
Third Lesson: The Angel Gabriel salutes the Blessed Virgin MaryJohn Barton
Carol: Gabriel’s MessageChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
Carol: God Rest You Merry, GentlemenChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
Carol: Sussex CarolChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
Fourth Lesson: St. Matthew tells of Christ’s Holy BirthDonald Beves
Carol: In Dulci JubiloChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
Fifth Lesson: The Shepherds go unto the MangerGeorge Rylands
Carol: Away in a MangerChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
Hymn: While Shepherds watchedChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
Sixth Lesson: The Wise Men are led by the Star to JesusAlec Vidler
Hymn: O Come, all ye FaithfulChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
Seventh Lesson: St. John unfolds the great mystery of the IncarnationThe Provost of King’s College
Hymn: Hark the Herald Angels SingChoir of King's College, Cambridge, Sir David Willcocks
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