“Sing We Now of Christmas” Monday, September 24, 2018
recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists
Prepare for Christmas with your church choir with one of these outstanding anthems, carefully selected by our experienced Sacred Choral Music staff.
There Shall a Star (from Christus) by Felix Mendelssohn/arr. John Leavitt
From Felix Mendelssohn’s oratorio Christus, this masterwork adaptation tastefully presents a classical work for church and academic choirs. This chorus is from one of Mendelssohn’s final works which was never completed. The rolling triplet accompaniment pushes the composition forward with wave-like arches, supporting the choir in all of its sonorous glory. A smooth contrapuntal style contrasts with dramatic accents and powerful crescendos, displaying the confident scripture-based text with appropriate excitement! John Leavitt has provided a new piano accompaniment as well as a new sparkling orchestration that supports the work while staying faithful to the Mendelssohn original.
Sing We Now of Christmas arr. Lloyd Larson
This dynamic setting features the French carol NOEL NOUVLET and the familiar words “Sing we now of Christmas, sing we now Noel,” which lead beautifully into a refrain of “What Child Is This.” Culled from Lloyd’s top-selling cantata, Were You There on That Christmas Night code no. 8611.
O Child of the Nations arr. Howard Helvey
A Sacred Harp gem has been newly adapted and arranged by Howard Helvey with his own new Advent text. The result is an a cappella anthem of rare beauty and sensitivity. The hymnic nature of the anthem makes it easy to learn, but no less effective in its presentation.
Sans Day Carol arr. Joseph M. Martin
A gently beautiful text and tune well-known by many has been given a moving and beautiful new setting. From its delicate beginning, this anthem soon soars. The text covers the story of Christ poetically from cradle to the cross, making it a perfect choice as a Christmas communion anthem.
Let Every Heart Rejoice and Sing by Patti Drennan
Patti Drennan brings us this festive anthem to celebrate the birth of Christ. An energetic and driving 4-hand accompaniment makes it a stunning selection for the Christmas season.
Child of Peace by Mary McDonald
This original, heartfelt song seamlessly weaves Dona Nobis Pacem, contemplating the peace that Christ brings at Christmas and always. The cherished carol Silent Night is included in the climax of the piece, which also offers optional congregational involvement. Beautiful!
A Christmas Lullaby arr. Mark Hayes
Mark Hayes seamlessly blends two timeless cradle songs to create the quintessential Christmas lullaby suitable for concert or worship venues. It is a tender and moving reminder of the beautiful Christmas story.
For more quality suggestions for your church choir, visit our newly redesigned 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.