Christmas Musicals for Church
Issue link: http://read.jwpepper.com/i/70591
Notes from the Composer Since the birth of Christ, the gospel message has spread across the globe to a world that continues to shrink as communication technology expands. Christ- mas is now celebrated in more than 160 countries, by people as diverse as the cultures in which they live. Yet despite our many differences, we celebrate the season united as one kingdom of believers. The hope for peace on earth is shared by millions of people in every corner of the globe. This is the inspira- tion behind Let the Whole World Sing. From the Celtic lilt of "In the Bleak Midwinter" and "Hear the News of Christ- mas," to the African rhythms of "Come, Come, Emmanuel," through the Caribbean-styled "Christ Is Born, Sing Noel!," and the Middle Eastern motives of "Rise Up, Shepherd," these arrangements gently underscore the universality of the gospel message. New music is blended with familiar carols in a wide va- riety of styles to create an interesting and fresh re-telling of the Christmas story. This 30-minute work for SATB choir consists of seven movements plus a clos- ing reprise. The optional narration uses prose and scripture to remind us of the wide-reaching global message found in the story of Christ's birth. It would be quite effective to use more than one person for the narration, or to divide the readings up among members of the choir. The delightful orchestration by Mark Kellner is accessible and flexible. Parts are available for violin 1&2, cello, flute, clarinet, trumpet, horn, synth, electric bass, and percussion, and may be used in any combination. The percussion part is written so that a single player can cover every instrument, but the nature of the music invites additional players and instruments if you happen to have them. Shakers, maracas, congas, and other ethnic instruments would be wel- come additions, and can be easily worked in. While this work is written for SATB choir throughout, there are many oppor- tunities to assign solos. The lines of the opening verse of "Let the Whole World Sing" would be very effective divided among different soloists, and the first verses of "In the Bleak Midwinter" and "Sleep in Heavenly Peace" would work well for either male or female soloists. A final option would be to expand this work by adding some traditional carols sung by the congregation. Suggestions include "O Little Town of Bethlehem" after "Come, Come, Emmanuel," "What Child Is This?" after "In the Bleak Midwinter," "The First Noel" after "Christ Is Born, Sing Noel!" and "Joy to the World!" after "Hear the News of Christmas." - Joel Raney Preview Copy