This collection of Christmas and midwinter songs ranges from the familiar Christmas story via curious legends (Villanelle de Noel) and secular traditions (Wassail Song) to the downright subversive (The Innocents' Song). We have music from the 15th to the 21st century, music from Naples, Sweden, France, Iceland, Spain, Scotland, England and America, a Basque carol, and a Catalan song. We don't neglect the well-loved Christmas favourites, but we hope that some of our choices will be new to you.
This CD is dedicated to the memory of Drew Reith - a fine tenor, a gifted musician, and, most of all, a friend and fellow spirit. Drew joined us early in 2004, and rapidly established himself as a valued member of our group. He is sadly missed when we meet and when we perform.
Playing time 52 minutes.
The singers
Michael Buck, Suzanna Bonnar, Christina Brown, Mirren Childs, Frances Cockburn, Alison Cook, Jenny Fardell, Anne Grindley, Peter Hawkins, Peter Hill, AnnaLauren Hunt, Isabel Lohss, Sari Kontkanen, Elaine Nicol, Anna Partridge, Kay Russell, Douglas Shaw, Frank Tollick, John Wexler, Susan Wexler
Directed by Frances Cockburn
Recorded in Crichton Collegiate Church, 2004