The Glory of Christmas Friday, September 14, 2018
recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists
Presenting a cantata with your church choir is a wonderful way to prepare your congregation to celebrate the birth of Christ. Stanton’s Sacred Choral Music staff highly recommends these cantatas for the Christmas season:
The Glory of Christmas by Lloyd Larson
The glory of Christmas comes to life in this inspiring musical by Lloyd Larson. Through a blend of familiar carols and original songs, choirs and congregations alike will experience the beauty of the incarnation story as if they re experiencing it for the first time. This versatile work may be presented in multiple segments over the Sundays of Advent or as a single presentation, and will be equally effective with piano accompaniment or the full orchestra option (live instruments or accompaniment track). The script for two narrators is scripturally based and seamlessly weaves in and out of the music to provide an inspiring worship experience. Opportunities for the congregation to sing familiar carols as well as the availability of both SATB and SAB editions ensure that this resource is suitable for choirs large or small.
A Midnight Clear by John Leavitt
“A Midnight Clear” is a joyful collection of carols that beautifully and elegantly portray the Christmas story. Stylistic variety abounds, and the optional Chamber Orchestration will provide additional layers of texture and color to the work. Selections can be presented individually or as part of a full-length cantata, making this book an excellent choice for “Lessons and Carols” services or for concert presentations.
A Carol Suite by Hal H. Hopson
A four movement suite of traditional carols arranged by Hal Hopson, this includes Once in Royal David’s City; Sing We Now of Christmas; Still, Still, Still and Angels We Have Heard on High. It will be a sure-fire success whether you use just piano or the chamber orchestra version. Beautifully crafted for choirs in all venues for Christmas.
Find more quality cantatas for your church choir on our website, or contact us at 1.800.426.8742. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
About the Authors:
Judy H. has been working in Stanton’s Choral Department since 1975. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Bowling Green State University, and a Master’s degree in Choral Conducting from The Ohio State University. A member of the Grove City Chamber Singers, Judy also enjoys reading and spending time with her four grandchildren.
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 14 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is a soprano section leader in the Chancel Choir at First Community Church in Columbus Ohio, and is also the founder, Artistic Director and bass bell ringer for Handbells Columbus.